Date: 8/21/26 4:35 am From: Jerry Butler <jerrysharon.butler...> Subject: Re: Bald Knob
I was at Bald Knob Tuesday and it was good. Rosette Spoonbill in Section 2.
Also silts phalarope upland sandpiper black bellied ducks and an avocet.
Yes I would say it is worth a trip. I saw one spoonbill along the creek
roosting in the same cypress tree where the storks hung out a few years ago
itâs a long jaunt from Fort Smith though. 55 species and no woodpeckers.
Peace and Birds. Jerry Butler
On Thu, Aug 20, 2026 at 8:42â¯PM Sandy Berger <sndbrgr...> wrote:
> Has anyone been to Bald Knob recently? Is it worth visiting this weekend?
>
> Thanks,
> Sandy Berger
>
> ------------------------------
>
> To unsubscribe from the ARBIRD-L list, click the following link:
> http://listserv.uark.edu/scripts/wa-UARKEDU.exe?SUBED1=ARBIRD-L&A=1 >
Date: 8/19/26 1:19 pm From: Patricia McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> Subject: You’re Invited to Participate in the Fall 2026 WMA Work Day on Sept. 12
It's almost time for the Great Arkansas Clean Up, which runs Sep 12 through Oct 30.Â
I've recently seen posts from people who think birders are the reason for so much litter. And, like you, we know this is far from the truth. In fact, I know that many of us actually clean up trash found on our favorite trails and birding locations. So here's a chance to show them how much we truly care about the environment!
To start, Arkansas Game and Fish is sponsoring a clean up event on Sept 12 (see below).Â
Let's do this! Pick your favorite WMA listed below -- or clean up portions of any nearby WMA on Sept 12 -- and do what you can to clean up other people's left behinds. I bet you find lots of aluminum cans, plastic bags, cigarette butts and fishing lures with hooks attached.
The Friends of Bald Knob NWR Facebook group has been participating in this Clean Up at the refuge for the past several years, and it has made a big difference in the amount of trash left behind. My intuition is that people care more about their environment when they notice it's level of care. (Interestingly enough, I did a small research project on this for my statistics class...way back when...indicating that less trash is left behind when users volunteer to clean up the parks. Not sure of the validity of that today but it was certainly a surprising finding back then.)
So please join us if you can!
Patty McLean Conway AR
Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer
----- Forwarded Message ----- From: "Arkansas Game and Fish Commission" <noreply...> To: "<PLM108...>" <PLM108...> Cc: Sent: Tue, Aug 18, 2026 at 8:00 PM Subject: You’re Invited to Participate in the Fall 2026 WMA Work Day on Sept. 12 You’re Invited to Participate in the Fall 2026 WMA Work Day on Sept. 12
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Show Your Support for Arkansas's Public Lands
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AGFC WMA Work Day Set for Sept. 12
           Â
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is opening up opportunities throughout the state to pitch in and help care for the woods, water and wildlife responsible for our nickname, The Natural State.Â
Volunteers are invited to sign up for specific projects at the following WMA locations at 8 a.m. on Sept. 12:
- Big Lake WMA
- Dave Donaldson Black River WMAÂ
- George H. Dunklin Jr. Bayou Meto WMA
- Henry Gray Hurricane Lake WMA Â
- Holland Bottoms WMA
- Mike Freeze Wattensaw WMA
- Rick Evans Grandview Prairie WMA
This WMA work day is not only ideal for hunters interested in enhancing access and maintaining wildlife habitat, but also for high school students meeting community service volunteer requirements under the LEARNS Act, caring for a resource they love and enjoy.
All ages are welcome to sign up for the location most convenient and valuable to you. Click here to sign up.Â
Date: 8/19/26 8:04 am From: Than Boves <0000066ff0d310d7-dmarc-request...> Subject: A-State Bird Observatory Fall Banding
Hi all - Once again, the most exciting time of the year is upon us....fall migration! Over the next few months, billions of birds will migrate south from their breeding grounds in Canada and the US in hopes of making it to their wintering grounds in the southern US, Mexico, Central and South America, and islands of the Caribbean. Along the way, many birds will stop right here in Jonesboro to refuel and prepare themselves for the dangerous journey ahead (which includes ridiculous non-stop flights across the Gulf of Mexico). Here at A-State Bird Observatory, we experience this journey vicariously by studying these birds, which includes setting up nets on campus, capturing some of these migrants, collecting data from them (such as age, sex, body condition, symbionts, etc.), marking them with unique leg bands in case others re-capture them, and then releasing them unharmed.
We would like to invite you all to come join us at the A-State Bird Observatory in Jonesboro to also (kind of) experience the phenomenon of avian migration! Every Wednesday and Sunday mornings starting next week (Sun, Aug 30), we will be opening nets, catching birds, and learning about them. The exact dates and starting times are below:
Date
Day
Time
8/30
Sun
6:30 AM
9/2
Wed
6:35 AM
9/6
Sun
6:35 AM
9/9
Wed
6:40 AM
9/13
Sun
6:40 AM
9/16
Wed
6:45 AM
9/20
Sun
6:45 AM
9/23
Wed
6:50 AM
9/27
Sun
6:50 AM
9/30
Wed
6:55 AM
10/4
Sun
7:00 AM
10/7
Wed
7:00 AM
10/11
Sun
7:05 AM
10/14
Wed
7:05 AM
10/18
Sun
7:10 AM
If you have not yet joined us, here is the location of the A-State Bird Observatory:
We will typically have 8-12 nets open for 2.5-3 hrs each morning. We almost always catch some birds, but some days are better than others (just like life). If there is precipitation, we will not be opening the nets. You can park in the grassy field east of the woods.
Feel free to share this info with others and hope to see some of you out this Fall!
Date: 8/19/26 8:01 am From: Dedra Gerard <000002df2472bba2-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Field trips
Thank you.
Sent from the all new AOL app for iOS
On Wednesday, August 19, 2026, 8:17 AM, Sandy Berger <sndbrgr...> wrote:
Speaking of field trips, our Fort Smith group Birding in and Around Fort Smith will be having our first fall field trip on September 12. It’ll be here in Fort Smith and we’ll be birding at Sunnymede Park and then going to Carol Ann Cross Park. Meet at Sunnymede at 7:00 a.m.
All are welcome. Find us on Facebook.Â
Sandy Berger
Date: 8/19/26 6:17 am From: Sandy Berger <sndbrgr...> Subject: Field trips
Speaking of field trips, our Fort Smith group Birding in and Around Fort
Smith will be having our first fall field trip on September 12. It’ll be
here in Fort Smith and we’ll be birding at Sunnymede Park and then going to
Carol Ann Cross Park. Meet at Sunnymede at 7:00 a.m.
Date: 8/18/26 11:27 am From: Daniel Denman <denmanster...> Subject: Ruddy Turnstone and Piping Plovers
Jake Hosterler, of Pocahontas called me today to let me know he is looking at some Ruddy Turnstone and a pair of Piping Plover at Lake AshBaugh, as well as a good handful of other shorebirds. (10 miles East of Pocahontas, AR). https://maps.app.goo.gl/QvpmM2yNBpRE7Y8GA?g_st=ac
Date: 8/18/26 7:27 am From: Patricia McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> Subject: Bald Knob NWR Update, Aug 17
The number of shorebirds and waders has grown exponentially over the past week with several species coming and going. And we got some much-needed rain out there too!!
Recent birds of interest, not including the more common ones:
DUCKSBlack-bellied Whistling-Duck Fulvous Whistling-Duck (altho may have moved to an inaccessible area on the refuge)
TERNSBlack TernForster's Tern Least Tern
SHOREBIRDSWilson's PhalaropeStilt SandpiperShort-billed and Long-billed DowitcherWilson's Snipe Upland SandpiperBlack-bellied PloverSemipalmated PloverBaird's SandpiperWestern Sandpiper
WADERSRoseate SpoonbillBlack-crowned Night-heron White Ibis Glossy Ibis and an unidentifiable juvenile dark ibis Tricolored Heron (which was seen only one morning at the south pond on Mingo Creek Road)
MISCELLANEOUS/OTHERNeotropic Cormorant (only on Mingo Creek Rd in south pond)Swallow-tailed Kite (seen one morning only--Aug 10)Large flocks of Mississippi Kites (100+)Sedge WrenNorthern Bobwhite (we had 50+ fly across the road in front of us, just east of Mingo Creek Rd)
Patty McLean and Michael Linz The RoadrunnersÂ
Date: 8/17/26 8:39 am From: <jwdavis...> <jwdavis...> Subject: Birds and Water
During this extreme heat bird lovers need to remember to provide water for the birds for drinking and bathing. In our hectic lifestyles, this is one important habitat element that may not come to mind. Birds need water every day of the year for drinking and bathing. In my surveys over multiple states, only one birdbath in 100 had water. Are you the one percent that always has water available? It helps to have water placed in a shady location with perches close by so birds can access and wet birds can escape predators. If such a location in not possible, at least make sure your sources contain water all of the time.
Most of my birds are relatively quiet now. This makes it more difficult for me to know what species are still in my yard. The Carolina Wrens, Tufted Titmouse, Downy, Hairy, Red-bellied, and Pileated Woodpeckers, and Northern Cardinals are still pretty vocal. The calls of the Summer Tanagers, Blue-gray gnatcatchers, Red-eyed Vireo, Great-crested Flycatchers, Yellow-billed Cuckoos and others are now infrequent. My four waters are in the backyard where I can see and monitor the birds and water availability at all times. Birds also come to the sprinkler when I am watering the hummingbird and pollinator flowers. Do your birdbaths have water? It is critical for their survival.
Another reminder, it is not too early to start preparing for Fall and Winter habitat needs. Skip mowing and let the seed heads develop for Fall and Winter feeding. Be working on making sure your brush piles are well developed to protect the birds in winter weather and provide another foraging substrate.
Date: 8/14/26 3:13 pm From: <arbour...> <arbour...> Subject: Red Slough Bird Survey - Aug. 14
Start Time: 0640
Stop Time: 1326
The survey started off clear, warm and calm but soon turned hot and windy. 55 species were found. Black-bellied Whistling Ducks are starting to stage early at Red Slough this year with most being on Lotus and Pintail Lakes. Huge numbers of vultures appeared to be migrating as they were in huge groups very high up and appeared to be moving southwest. A lot were too far away to I.D. to exact species but most appeared to be Turkey Vultures. I have seen them do this in the late summer several times before. No storks or spoonbills yet. Here is my list for today:
Date: 8/13/26 8:47 am From: Patricia McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> Subject: Tricolored Heron at Magness Lake
Terry Butker just called to report a Tricolored Heron at Magness Lake (Cleburne County) -- the Swan Pond.
Patty McLean and Michael Linz The RoadrunnersÂ
Date: 8/13/26 8:12 am From: Patricia McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Tricolored Heron at Mingo Creek Road (White County)
CORRECTION. The TRICOLORED HERON is on the south pond at Mingo Creek Road in White County.
Patty
Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer
On Thu, Aug 13, 2026 at 10:00 AM, Patricia McLean<plm108...> wrote: Terry Butker just called to report a Tricolored Heron at Magness Lake (Cleburne County) -- the Swan Pond.
Patty McLean and Michael Linz The RoadrunnersÂ
Date: 8/10/26 8:20 am From: Joseph Neal <0000078cbd583d7c-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Swallow-tailed Kite at Bald Knob NWR
We have Swallow-tailed Kites up here in NWA, including a record 4 that were photographed in one tree yesterday. I don't know if we re-found the 4 yesterday, but maybe, since there were so many kites in the air, high and low. Very exciting. Here is my report just for Joan and I posted to eBird this morning. This link does not require you to sign in to eBird to view it: https://ebird.org/checklist/S381966700. This is all private land. The kites we are seeing are all from county roads.
________________________________
From: The Birds of Arkansas Discussion List <ARBIRD-L...> on behalf of Patricia McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...>
Sent: Monday, August 10, 2026 10:13 AM
To: <ARBIRD-L...> <ARBIRD-L...>
Subject: Swallow-tailed Kite at Bald Knob NWR
Just heard from Glenn Wyatt that Kenny Nations found a Swallow-tailed Kite at the refuge this morning. If you go, check above the trees and the open fields. It was seen and photographed south of Huntsman Road flying above the trees. Glenn last saw it heading southeast along Overflow Creek Rd (about a mile south of Birch Pond).
The Mississippi Kites were quite numerous mid-day yesterday over the Central Agri Fields. We counted 28 but, as hard as we tried, we couldn't turn any into a Swallow-tailed. What a difference a day makes.
Date: 8/10/26 8:14 am From: Patricia McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> Subject: Swallow-tailed Kite at Bald Knob NWR
Just heard from Glenn Wyatt that Kenny Nations found a Swallow-tailed Kite at the refuge this morning. If you go, check above the trees and the open fields. It was seen and photographed south of Huntsman Road flying above the trees. Glenn last saw it heading southeast along Overflow Creek Rd (about a mile south of Birch Pond).Â
The Mississippi Kites were quite numerous mid-day yesterday over the Central Agri Fields. We counted 28 but, as hard as we tried, we couldn't turn any into a Swallow-tailed. What a difference a day makes.
Patty McLean and Michael Linz The RoadrunnersÂ
Tonight purple Martins are streaming over Beaver lake heading south west. If someone is in Rogers I would check their past roosting sights.
I also just started reading “A world on the wing†this afternoon, so fascinating!
Nancy
Beaver Lake
Sent from my iPhone
############################
Date: 8/9/26 6:00 am From: Patricia McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Bald Knob NWR
Wonderful report, Ian, and congratulations!
Two more birds to add to yesterday's bird list. Michael and I went in the evening (couldn't make the field trip due to two events in Conway). We got there around 6:30p and found a Ruddy Turnstone and a Piping Plover. The Fulvous Whistling-Ducks were still present. All in Cell 2.
Patty McLean and Michael Linz The RoadrunnersÂ
Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer
On Sat, Aug 8, 2026 at 5:25 PM, Ian Thomas<ian.t.thomas...> wrote: What a great day!
I'm a new birder and I added 28 species to my life list today! I wanted to say thank you for a great trip. Sarah, ASCA, and all you good birders have made me feel so welcome. The roseate spoonbill and grasshopper sparrows were particular highlights!
I know every day won't be like this one, but I'll take it while I can!
Ian Thomas
On Sat, Aug 8, 2026 at 11:18 AM Sarah Morris <sarahmorris.ark...> wrote:
Despite the rain, it’s been a good morning to visit Bald Knob NWR: roseate spoonbill, black bellied and fulvous whistling ducks, glossy and white ibis, black and Forster terns, lots of herons, egrets and other shorebirds.
Sarah Morris
Date: 8/8/26 3:25 pm From: Ian Thomas <ian.t.thomas...> Subject: Re: Bald Knob NWR
What a great day!
I'm a new birder and I added 28 species to my life list today! I wanted to
say thank you for a great trip. Sarah, ASCA, and all you good birders have
made me feel so welcome. The roseate spoonbill and grasshopper sparrows
were particular highlights!
I know every day won't be like this one, but I'll take it while I can!
Ian Thomas
On Sat, Aug 8, 2026 at 11:18 AM Sarah Morris <sarahmorris.ark...>
wrote:
> Despite the rain, it’s been a good morning to visit Bald Knob NWR: roseate
> spoonbill, black bellied and fulvous whistling ducks, glossy and white
> ibis, black and Forster terns, lots of herons, egrets and other shorebirds.
>
> Sarah Morris
>
>
> ------------------------------
>
> To unsubscribe from the ARBIRD-L list, click the following link:
> http://listserv.uark.edu/scripts/wa-UARKEDU.exe?SUBED1=ARBIRD-L&A=1 >
Date: 8/8/26 9:18 am From: Sarah Morris <sarahmorris.ark...> Subject: Bald Knob NWR
Despite the rain, it’s been a good morning to visit Bald Knob NWR: roseate
spoonbill, black bellied and fulvous whistling ducks, glossy and white
ibis, black and Forster terns, lots of herons, egrets and other shorebirds.
Date: 8/8/26 6:16 am From: jttllt <000001df0ca37a3b-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: WMAs and Critical Habitats
Exactly. Thank you. We do not know what we do not know. Until one or more of us sits down with the actual decision makers, and have real cogent conversation, we simply have no idea about what they are faced with and how WE can best help them.Sent from my Galaxy
-------- Original message --------From: Gmail <butchchq8...> Date: 8/8/26 7:52 AM (GMT-06:00) To: <ARBIRD-L...> Subject: Re: WMAs and Critical Habitats I hate to play devil's advocate here, but is it possible that AGFC had other factors to contend with that affected the timing decision? For example, the availability personnel and equipment? Controlled burns are not 2-man jobs. Is it possible that they have to balance employee schedules and availability through the summer to ensure the safety of the burns? And if there are burns at various locations, is it possible they are rotating equipment around to the various sites? Regarding the timing itself, the deeper we get into the summer droughts, the greater the chances of having to deal with uncontrolled burns as a results of lightening strikes, and the greater the chances that a controlled burn could become uncontrolled.We can lament the short-term issues and debate it all day long, but until we are on the inside sitting in the decision meetings, we'll never know, nor do we really need to know all the factors that go into making these decisions. If we want that, then we should go work for the AGFC.Yes, it is possible that they could have moved that date back and that a simple conversation could affect future timing decisions. But it is also possible that its not an optimality-based decision, but one based on the lesser of the other evils to contend with.Just sayin'.ButchBella VistaOn Aug 7, 2026, at 20:58, Patricia McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> wrote:I was searching the web for something else and found this article on the burn done at Camp Robinson (now Lake Conway WMA). It was even bigger than we knew and I certainly wish we hadn't been there during it.I acknowledge that they certainly needed to burn the Prairie areas, partly to limit the growth of sweet gum and other highly invasive plants. I commend them for this difficult but important work. I just wish a month later would have worked for this schedule. It was difficult to deal with.Big, beautiful burn sparks new growth for prairie habitat on Camp Robinson SUA • Arkansas Game & Fish Commission
Big, beautiful burn sparks new growth for prairie habitat on Camp Robinson SUA • Arkansas Game & Fish Commission
Get caught up on Big, beautiful burn sparks new growth for prairie habitat on Camp Robinson SUA from the AGFC.
Patty On Fri, Aug 7, 2026 at 5:03 PM, Patricia McLean<plm108...> wrote: Now that we have a paying voice with AGFC, there are some things we can/should address with their leadership, beginning with habitat issues.Many WMA managers have been doing an excellent job in many areas where habitat improvements are possible. Kudos to them for these much-needed and deeply appreciated efforts. However, one area that has seen significant improvement but also has some much-needed reform is the Camp Robinson portion of the newly named Lake Conway WMA in Faulkner County. Michael Linz and I were there last month and again a few days ago. We found several large areas that were being burned. All the butterfly and pollinator plants we had previously seen were completely destroyed. And why? What purpose could possibly be more important than supporting our highly valued pollinators? A rampant disease, perhaps? Well maybe. But I suspect this burn had to do with quail, which they have managed here for years. And while we love quail, we cannot put them above other native, non-invasive species, particularly those that provide tremendous benefits up and down the food chain. When we were there last month, they had just recently torn out lush habitat in some green spaces. During breeding season! I can't even begin to tell you how disturbing this was to see. I thought these people were biologists, and perhaps they are, but obviously they care very little for the other species that depend on specific habitats to successfully raise their young. Why were these removal activities being done during the breeding season!?! I would have much less issue with them taking out some of these thickets during other times of the year but absolutely not during breeding season nor when the butterflies and other pollinators need these resources to sustain their populations. No. No. No. And no exception.One additional issue about the burning that has repeatedly been brought to their attention: these burns are conducted so frequently that the Bachman's Sparrow, which used to breed here, is now likely extirpated. We have searched and searched for them in all the various habitats over the last sev
eral years where we once found them, and now nothing. Not a single one. Bachman's Sparrows need fire in the landscape but much less frequently than "Camp" management is scheduling. This needs to change.On a positive (but also sad) note, they have made significant and important improvements to the natural landscape here, which has allowed a plethora of lovely native, flowering plants to thrive. Before the fire, we saw numerous fields filled with butterfly weed, rattlesnake master, rosepink, Prairie coreopsis, mountain mints, meadowbeauty, ironweed, and verbena, not to mention a variety of sunflowers. We also found a few wooly rosemallows with several tunnel bees feeding on them, covered in pollen. Every single cluster is now burned to a crisp, leaving nothing for pollinators.  It's difficult to comprehend why this needs to happen this time of year and why so frequently. Surely there is a better procedure to sustain the entirety of species and not just the quail.We have every reason to expect to be heard now and taken seriously. I know that some of you on this listserv work for AGFC and are already aware of these problems. Please help us correct this to favor a variety of other iconic species beyond quail. Thank you for listening and let's all pray that these harmful practices cease. Our state lands are for all of us to enjoy. Let's make sure that's the case by letting our voices be heard.Patty McLean and Michael Linz Conway ArkansasÂ
I was searching the web for something else and found this article on the burn done at Camp Robinson (now Lake Conway WMA). It was even bigger than we knew and I certainly wish we hadn't been there during it.
I acknowledge that they certainly needed to burn the Prairie areas, partly to limit the growth of sweet gum and other highly invasive plants. I commend them for this difficult but important work. I just wish a month later would have worked for this schedule. It was difficult to deal with.
Big, beautiful burn sparks new growth for prairie habitat on Camp Robinson SUA • Arkansas Game & Fish Commission
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Big, beautiful burn sparks new growth for prairie habitat on Camp Robinson SUA • Arkansas Game & Fish Commission
Get caught up on Big, beautiful burn sparks new growth for prairie habitat on Camp Robinson SUA from the AGFC.
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Patty
On Fri, Aug 7, 2026 at 5:03 PM, Patricia McLean<plm108...> wrote: Now that we have a paying voice with AGFC, there are some things we can/should address with their leadership, beginning with habitat issues.
Many WMA managers have been doing an excellent job in many areas where habitat improvements are possible. Kudos to them for these much-needed and deeply appreciated efforts.Â
However, one area that has seen significant improvement but also has some much-needed reform is the Camp Robinson portion of the newly named Lake Conway WMA in Faulkner County. Michael Linz and I were there last month and again a few days ago. We found several large areas that were being burned. All the butterfly and pollinator plants we had previously seen were completely destroyed. And why? What purpose could possibly be more important than supporting our highly valued pollinators? A rampant disease, perhaps? Well maybe. But I suspect this burn had to do with quail, which they have managed here for years. And while we love quail, we cannot put them above other native, non-invasive species, particularly those that provide tremendous benefits up and down the food chain.Â
When we were there last month, they had just recently torn out lush habitat in some green spaces. During breeding season! I can't even begin to tell you how disturbing this was to see.Â
I thought these people were biologists, and perhaps they are, but obviously they care very little for the other species that depend on specific habitats to successfully raise their young.Â
Why were these removal activities being done during the breeding season!?! I would have much less issue with them taking out some of these thickets during other times of the year but absolutely not during breeding season nor when the butterflies and other pollinators need these resources to sustain their populations. No. No. No. And no exception.
One additional issue about the burning that has repeatedly been brought to their attention: these burns are conducted so frequently that the Bachman's Sparrow, which used to breed here, is now likely extirpated. We have searched and searched for them in all the various habitats over the last several years where we once found them, and now nothing. Not a single one. Bachman's Sparrows need fire in the landscape but much less frequently than "Camp" management is scheduling. This needs to change.
On a positive (but also sad) note, they have made significant and important improvements to the natural landscape here, which has allowed a plethora of lovely native, flowering plants to thrive. Before the fire, we saw numerous fields filled with butterfly weed, rattlesnake master, rosepink, Prairie coreopsis, mountain mints, meadowbeauty, ironweed, and verbena, not to mention a variety of sunflowers. We also found a few wooly rosemallows with several tunnel bees feeding on them, covered in pollen. Every single cluster is now burned to a crisp, leaving nothing for pollinators. Â
It's difficult to comprehend why this needs to happen this time of year and why so frequently. Surely there is a better procedure to sustain the entirety of species and not just the quail.
We have every reason to expect to be heard now and taken seriously. I know that some of you on this listserv work for AGFC and are already aware of these problems. Please help us correct this to favor a variety of other iconic species beyond quail.Â
Thank you for listening and let's all pray that these harmful practices cease. Our state lands are for all of us to enjoy. Let's make sure that's the case by letting our voices be heard.
Patty McLean and Michael Linz Conway ArkansasÂ
Now that we have a paying voice with AGFC, there are some things we can/should address with their leadership, beginning with habitat issues.
Many WMA managers have been doing an excellent job in many areas where habitat improvements are possible. Kudos to them for these much-needed and deeply appreciated efforts.Â
However, one area that has seen significant improvement but also has some much-needed reform is the Camp Robinson portion of the newly named Lake Conway WMA in Faulkner County. Michael Linz and I were there last month and again a few days ago. We found several large areas that were being burned. All the butterfly and pollinator plants we had previously seen were completely destroyed. And why? What purpose could possibly be more important than supporting our highly valued pollinators? A rampant disease, perhaps? Well maybe. But I suspect this burn had to do with quail, which they have managed here for years. And while we love quail, we cannot put them above other native, non-invasive species, particularly those that provide tremendous benefits up and down the food chain.Â
When we were there last month, they had just recently torn out lush habitat in some green spaces. During breeding season! I can't even begin to tell you how disturbing this was to see.Â
I thought these people were biologists, and perhaps they are, but obviously they care very little for the other species that depend on specific habitats to successfully raise their young.Â
Why were these removal activities being done during the breeding season!?! I would have much less issue with them taking out some of these thickets during other times of the year but absolutely not during breeding season nor when the butterflies and other pollinators need these resources to sustain their populations. No. No. No. And no exception.
One additional issue about the burning that has repeatedly been brought to their attention: these burns are conducted so frequently that the Bachman's Sparrow, which used to breed here, is now likely extirpated. We have searched and searched for them in all the various habitats over the last several years where we once found them, and now nothing. Not a single one. Bachman's Sparrows need fire in the landscape but much less frequently than "Camp" management is scheduling. This needs to change.
On a positive (but also sad) note, they have made significant and important improvements to the natural landscape here, which has allowed a plethora of lovely native, flowering plants to thrive. Before the fire, we saw numerous fields filled with butterfly weed, rattlesnake master, rosepink, Prairie coreopsis, mountain mints, meadowbeauty, ironweed, and verbena, not to mention a variety of sunflowers. We also found a few wooly rosemallows with several tunnel bees feeding on them, covered in pollen. Every single cluster is now burned to a crisp, leaving nothing for pollinators. Â
It's difficult to comprehend why this needs to happen this time of year and why so frequently. Surely there is a better procedure to sustain the entirety of species and not just the quail.
We have every reason to expect to be heard now and taken seriously. I know that some of you on this listserv work for AGFC and are already aware of these problems. Please help us correct this to favor a variety of other iconic species beyond quail.Â
Thank you for listening and let's all pray that these harmful practices cease. Our state lands are for all of us to enjoy. Let's make sure that's the case by letting our voices be heard.
Patty McLean and Michael Linz Conway ArkansasÂ
Date: 8/6/26 5:20 pm From: Allan Mueller <akcmueller...> Subject: Re: Kevin Krajcir discusses bird conservation in Arkansas
Kevin,
Good interview. You came across very well.
Allan
On Thu, Aug 6, 2026 at 9:36 AM Ragupathy Kannan <
<0000013b0ad14faf-dmarc-request...> wrote:
> From Kevin Krajcir:
>
> A few weeks ago, ARBA's email account received a request to join the
> Little Rock Zoo's podcast *That's Wild* to discuss what we do for bird
> conservation in Arkansas. Since they're based in Little Rock, Evan passed
> the request along to Lynn and me. I ended up being able to join them to
> discuss ARBA and some of our work! The conversation continued to talk about
> all things bird and some of my own work at ANHC. I wanted to go ahead and
> pass along the link to the episode in case you'd like to listen. The link
> below is to the episode on Spotify, but I'm sure you can find it on other
> audio streaming services.
>
>
> https://open.spotify.com/episode/2PjUvq4fsIt1k0hjlaQ2NZ?si=v2ECZGiJT5SgADUiZQiGXA >
> ------------------------------
>
> To unsubscribe from the ARBIRD-L list, click the following link:
> http://listserv.uark.edu/scripts/wa-UARKEDU.exe?SUBED1=ARBIRD-L&A=1 >
--
Allan Mueller (It)
20 Moseley Lane, Conway, AR
Home of the Arkansas State Champion Winged Elm
501-339-8071
Pura Vida
Date: 8/6/26 1:52 pm From: Kevin Krajcir <kjkrajcir...> Subject: August ASCA Meeting - Michael Ferrara - Birds and Solar Arrays
Hello!
Join the Audubon Society of Central Arkansas on Thursday August 13th at 7
PM to hear Michael Ferrara talk about his research of the factors
influencing bird communities in and around solar facilities. Michael
completed this research as part of his master’s at the University of
Arkansas - Fayetteville, where he is currently pursuing a PhD.
Over the past two years, this study has examined surveys on bird community
abundance and occupancy in and around solar energy facilities (solar
arrays) across Arkansas and Kansas. Solar facilities have increasingly
become a part of the landscape, consisting of rows of solar panels to
generate energy as an alternative to fossil fuels. Newer solar energy
facilities are being developed to incorporate diverse vegetation
communities; however, the effects of these practices on bird communities
remain poorly understood. This study evaluates the factors influencing bird
community occupancy and species richness at solar sites compared to
reference sites, with data collected using autonomous recording units. The
study also assesses the factors influencing bird community abundance in and
around these sites using point count data collected inside, at the
boundaries, and outside these sites. This research highlights that
landscape features are more strongly correlated with avian community
composition than local vegetation characteristics. Overall, we found that
solar panel presence was not strongly related to bird community occupancy,
but abundance tended to be higher outside the solar sites, with variation
across species.
Michael Ferrara is originally from Long Island, New York where he earned
his Bachelor’s degree in Conservation Biology from State University of New
York College of Environmental Science and Forestry. He has worked with
birds and wildlife across the country. Prior to moving to Arkansas, he
worked for the National Audubon Society in Florida, helping manage
protected shorebird and seabird colonies. Michael completed his Master’s
degree in Biology at the University of Arkansas and is currently pursuing
his Ph.D. in Biology there. His current research focuses on how solar
energy development and habitat management influence bird communities. He
has also served for the past two years as Publicity Director for the
Arkansas Audubon Society and was recently elected Vice President of the
organization.
Date: 8/6/26 7:36 am From: Ragupathy Kannan <0000013b0ad14faf-dmarc-request...> Subject: Kevin Krajcir discusses bird conservation in Arkansas
From Kevin Krajcir: A few weeks ago, ARBA's email account received a request to join the Little Rock Zoo's podcast That's Wild to discuss what we do for bird conservation in Arkansas. Since they're based in Little Rock, Evan passed the request along to Lynn and me. I ended up being able to join them to discuss ARBA and some of our work! The conversation continued to talk about all things bird and some of my own work at ANHC. I wanted to go ahead and pass along the link to the episode in case you'd like to listen. The link below is to the episode on Spotify, but I'm sure you can find it on other audio streaming services.
Date: 8/5/26 10:09 pm From: <arbour...> <arbour...> Subject: Red Slough Bird Survey - August 5
Start Time: 0724
Stop Time: 1424
The morning started off clear, warm and calm on the bird survey today but turned partly cloudy, hot, and a little windy in the afternoon. 56 species were found. Best highlight today was an early American Redstart. Here is my list for today:
Black-bellied Whistling Duck - 6
Wood Duck - 3
Pied-billed Grebe – 7
Neotropic Cormorant - 16 (3 sitting on nests.)
Anhinga - 17
Great-blue Heron - 3
Great Egret - 6
Snowy Egret - 6
Little-blue Heron - 9
Cattle Egret - 25
Green Heron - 5
White Ibis - 5
Black Vulture - 16
Turkey Vulture – 6
Mississippi Kite - 77
Red-shouldered Hawk - 2
Purple Gallinule - 61
Common Gallinule - 40
American Coot – 3
Mourning Dove - 7
Yellow-billed Cuckoo - 7
Ruby-throated Hummingbird - 2
Red-bellied Woodpecker - 1
Downy Woodpecker - 1
Hairy Woodpecker - 1
Pileated Woodpecker - 1
Eastern Wood-Pewee - 1
Acadian Flycatcher - 1
Alder Flycatcher - 1
Great-crested Flycatcher - 1
Eastern Kingbird - 1
White-eyed Vireo- 9
Yellow-throated Vireo - 1
Red-eyed Vireo - 1
American Crow - 4
Northern Rough-winged Swallow - 3
Cliff Swallow - 4
Barn Swallow - 12
Carolina Chickadee - 4
Tufted Titmouse - 9
Carolina Wren - 12
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher - 3
Gray Catbird - 1
Prairie Warbler - 1
Black-and-white Warbler - 1
American Redstart - 1 (female/imm. bird; new early date for Fall migration.)
Date: 8/5/26 9:28 am From: Taylor Long <00001397303cad80-dmarc-request...> Subject: From Truth to Fake: The Threat of AI to Media Archives
Greetings Arkansas Birders,
The eBird and Macaulay Library teams have just posted a timely article on the growing impacts of AI on bird photos attached to eBird checklists, and what you can do to help. Some of the issues here are obvious, but there are other more subtle ways folks can inadvertently end up with over-edited or accidentally altered images. Worth a read!
Date: 8/3/26 4:06 pm From: Kevin Krajcir <kjkrajcir...> Subject: ASCA August Presentation - Michael Ferrara - Birds and Solar Arrays
Good evening!
Join the Audubon Society of Central Arkansas on Thursday August 13th at 7 PM to hear Michael Ferrara talk about his research of the factors influencing bird communities in and around solar facilities. Michael completed this research as part of his master’s at the University of Arkansas - Fayetteville, where he is currently pursuing a PhD.
Over the past two years, this study has examined surveys on bird community abundance and occupancy in and around solar energy facilities (solar arrays) across Arkansas and Kansas. Solar facilities have increasingly become a part of the landscape, consisting of rows of solar panels to generate energy as an alternative to fossil fuels. Newer solar energy facilities are being developed to incorporate diverse vegetation communities; however, the effects of these practices on bird communities remain poorly understood. This study evaluates the factors influencing bird community occupancy and species richness at solar sites compared to reference sites, with data collected using autonomous recording units. The study also assesses the factors influencing bird community abundance in and around these sites using point count data collected inside, at the boundaries, and outside these sites. This research highlights that landscape features are more strongly correlated with avian community composition than local vegetation characteristics. Overall, we found that solar panel presence was not strongly related to bird community occupancy, but abundance tended to be higher outside the solar sites, with variation across species.
Michael Ferrara is originally from Long Island, New York where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Conservation Biology from State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry. He has worked with birds and wildlife across the country. Prior to moving to Arkansas, he worked for the National Audubon Society in Florida, helping manage protected shorebird and seabird colonies. Michael completed his Master’s degree in Biology at the University of Arkansas and is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Biology there. His current research focuses on how solar energy development and habitat management influence bird communities. He has also served for the past two years as Publicity Director for the Arkansas Audubon Society and was recently elected Vice President of the organization.
Date: 8/3/26 1:52 pm From: Carol Joan Patterson <0000003a0ccbe138-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Alarming decline of bird populations
I shared it on Facebook. Thanks for posting.
On Friday, July 31, 2026 at 08:15:18 PM CDT, Ragupathy Kannan <0000013b0ad14faf-dmarc-request...> wrote:
Excellent interview on the alarming decline of bird populations and why we should care. Worth sharing widely. Â
The alarming decline of bird populations and why humans should careÂ
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The alarming decline of bird populations and why humans should care
Date: 8/3/26 12:29 pm From: Patricia McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Spoonbill and Other Treats at Bald Knob NWR
The Roseate Spoonbill, Glossy Ibis, and other birds have been spotted in Cell 2, providing great views for onlookers. Three Wilson's Phalaropes were also seen in Cell 2 this morning.Â
Cell 2 is a big hotspot this year for ducks, waders, and shorebirds.Â
A large section south of the grainery is currently closed due to road maintenance. This is mostly to/from and around the south agricultural fields.Â
Two Wood Storks were reported on Sunday, but their exact location remains unknown.Â
Stay tuned for updates on bird species as migration progresses. We'll do our best to keep you posted as to new arrivals or issues associated with the refuge.
Sarah Morris is leading a field trip at the refuge on August 8, beginning at 8:30a, on behalf of the Audubon Society of Central Arkansas. The trip is free and open to birders of all experience levels.Â
Date: 8/1/26 1:59 pm From: Jacob Wessels <jacoblwessels...> Subject: Fwd: Fall 2026 MS Ornithological Society meeting: Natchez and St Catherine Creek
Dear Arkansas birders,
I just wanted to pass along the information on the Mississippi Ornithological Society's fall meeting, in case any of you would like to attend. Please see below and attached.
Good birding,
Jacob Wessels Newsletter Editor, Mississippi Ornithological Society
PS- Now that your organization is called Arkansas Bird Alliance, I think it would be hilarious to start referring to Arkansas as "the ABA Area".
----
I'm excited to announce that the fall Mississippi Ornithological Society meeting will be September 11-13 in Natchez, with a focus on St Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge. The meeting will be in collaboration with Jackson Audubon Society. Our main field trip will be the Saturday evening "sundowner" to watch wading birds fly in to roost. We are welcoming as our guest speaker Dr. Mark A. Mitchell, a wildlife veterinarian at LSU.
Please see the attached PDF for the full details. Or, you can read about it on our website at https://www.missbird.org/events/fall-2026 . If you have any questions, please let me know.
Excellent interview on the alarming decline of bird populations and why we should care. Worth sharing widely. Â
The alarming decline of bird populations and why humans should careÂ
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The alarming decline of bird populations and why humans should care
Date: 7/31/26 5:35 pm From: Patricia McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> Subject: Spoonbill and Other Treats at Bald Knob NWR
One of our favorite birds, the juvenile Roseate Spoonbill continues in Cell 2 at the refuge. It was seen resting and lingering in Cell 2.
Other delights:
DUCKSÂ Wood Duck with babiesBlack-bellied Whistling Ducks
WADERSThree dark ibis with at least two being Glossy IbisNumerous White Ibis, mostly juveniles
SHOREBIRDSBlack-necked Stilts and others ncluding Short-billed Dowitchers, Stilt Sandpipers, both Yellowlegs, Pectoral Sandpiper, Least and Semipalmated Sandpipers, Spotted and Solitary Sandpipers, and lots of Killdeer.
A single and beautiful Black Tern along with numerous sqallows.Â
A cooler breeze helps.
Patty McLean and Michael Linz The RoadrunnersÂ
Date: 7/29/26 6:44 pm From: <arbour...> <arbour...> Subject: Red Slough Bird Survey - July 29
It was mostly cloudy and warm with a light breeze on the survey today. 51 species were found. Best highlight today was an adult Tricolored Heron in unit 15. Shorebirds are starting to migrate through. Most Passerines have stopped singing. Mainly just cicadas singing now. Here is my list for today:
Black-bellied Whistling Duck - 9 adults (also two broods of young.)
Wood Duck - 25
Ring-necked Duck - 1 male
Pied-billed Grebe – 5 (one sitting on nest.)
Neotropic Cormorant - 11 (3 sitting on nests.)
Anhinga - 12 adults (several sitting on nests & several nests with young.)
Great-blue Heron - 8
Great Egret - 12
Snowy Egret - 44
Little-blue Heron - 16
Tricolored Heron - 1 (adult in unit 15.)
Cattle Egret - 120
Green Heron - 17
Yellow-crowned Night Heron - 3
White Ibis - 18
Black Vulture - 4
Turkey Vulture – 17
Mississippi Kite - 4
Red-shouldered Hawk - 1
Purple Gallinule - 135 (Two sitting on nests with newly hatched chicks. Numerous new broods of young.)
Common Gallinule - 93 (one sitting on nest. Several new broods of young.)
Date: 7/29/26 6:35 pm From: <jwdavis...> <jwdavis...> Subject: Re: Celebrating YOU: 10 Years of Climate Watch
Thanks for the alert about Leif Anderson. He has championed birds in every state he has lived in and has also coordinated the Christmas Bird Counts and probably has the world record for eBird reports. He has dedicated a career to natural resource management for the National Forest.
Thank you, Leif, for leading by example and setting the bar high for others to follow.
Jerry Wayne Davis
Hot Springs, AR
________________________________
From: The Birds of Arkansas Discussion List <ARBIRD-L...> on behalf of Allan Mueller <akcmueller...>
Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2026 3:50 PM
To: <ARBIRD-L...> <ARBIRD-L...>
Subject: Fwd: Celebrating YOU: 10 Years of Climate Watch
Open the attached report and turn to page 7 for an article about an Arkabsas bird-hero, Leif Anderson.
Allan Mueller
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Audubon Climate Watch <AudubonConnect...><mailto:<AudubonConnect...>> Date: Wed, Jul 29, 2026 at 9:01 AM
Subject: Celebrating YOU: 10 Years of Climate Watch
To: Allan Mueller <akcmueller...><mailto:<akcmueller...>>
Today, we're thrilled to share A Decade of Discovery: Ten Years of Audubon’s Climate Watch, a celebration of what we've accomplished together.
Today, we're thrilled to share A Decade of Discovery: Ten Years of Audubon’s Climate Watch, a celebration of what we've accomplished together.
Photo Credit: Sydney Walsh/Audubon. Friends of the Earth, Claflin University’s Audubon on Campus chapter, participates in the winter climate watch survey on February 5, 2026 in Orangeburg, South Carolina, along with Jennifer Tyrrell, Community Science and Research Program Manager for Audubon South Carolina.
Dear Climate Watch Community,
This report is for you!
For a decade, you've braved January cold snaps and June heat waves. You've hiked into remote forests and surveyed urban parks. You've learned to distinguish nuthatch calls and identify bluebirds at a distance. You've conducted nearly 100,000 point counts—each one a small but vital contribution to understanding how birds are responding to our changing climate.
What we've learned from your observations: Your data has validated Audubon's climate projections, showing that birds really are moving to the places our models predicted. You've documented species colonizing newly suitable areas and departing from regions that are becoming less hospitable. You've proven that community science can track climate change in real time—and inform the conservation decisions that will help birds adapt.
The report features stories from volunteers like you, including Leif Anderson, who has conducted an astounding 4,600 Climate Watch surveys, and Carrie Wild, whose first season with the program connected her passion for art with meaningful conservation action. Your collective dedication has created an unprecedented dataset that scientists will use for years to come.
Looking ahead: As we enter Climate Watch's second decade, we're taking a closer look at all ten years of your observations to identify which species are most vulnerable to climate change and where conservation efforts should be focused.
Thank you for your dedication, your curiosity, and your commitment to birds. You are the heart and soul of Climate Watch, and this milestone belongs to you.
Here's to the next ten years of discovery—together.
Date: 7/29/26 3:51 pm From: Allan Mueller <akcmueller...> Subject: Fwd: Celebrating YOU: 10 Years of Climate Watch
Open the attached report and turn to page 7 for an article about an
Arkabsas bird-hero, Leif Anderson.
Allan Mueller
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Audubon Climate Watch <AudubonConnect...>
Date: Wed, Jul 29, 2026 at 9:01 AM
Subject: Celebrating YOU: 10 Years of Climate Watch
To: Allan Mueller <akcmueller...>
Today, we're thrilled to share A Decade of Discovery: Ten Years of
Audubon’s Climate Watch, a celebration of what we've accomplished together.
Today, we're thrilled to share A Decade of Discovery: Ten Years of
Audubon’s Climate Watch, a celebration of what we've accomplished together.
*Photo Credit: Sydney Walsh/Audubon. *Friends of the Earth, Claflin
University’s Audubon on Campus chapter, participates in the winter climate
watch survey on February 5, 2026 in Orangeburg, South Carolina, along with
Jennifer Tyrrell, Community Science and Research Program Manager for
Audubon South Carolina.
Dear Climate Watch Community,
This report is for *you!*
For a decade, you've braved January cold snaps and June heat waves. You've
hiked into remote forests and surveyed urban parks. You've learned to
distinguish nuthatch calls and identify bluebirds at a distance. You've
conducted nearly 100,000 point counts—each one a small but vital
contribution to understanding how birds are responding to our changing
climate.
*What we've learned from your observations: *Your data has validated
Audubon's climate projections, showing that birds really are moving to the
places our models predicted. You've documented species colonizing newly
suitable areas and departing from regions that are becoming less
hospitable. You've proven that community science can track climate change
in real time—and inform the conservation decisions that will help birds
adapt.
The report features stories from volunteers like you, including Leif
Anderson, who has conducted an astounding 4,600 Climate Watch surveys, and
Carrie Wild, whose first season with the program connected her passion for
art with meaningful conservation action. Your collective dedication has
created an unprecedented dataset that scientists will use for years to come.
*Looking ahead: *As we enter Climate Watch's second decade, we're taking a
closer look at all ten years of your observations to identify which species
are most vulnerable to climate change and where conservation efforts should
be focused.
Thank you for your dedication, your curiosity, and your commitment to
birds. You are the heart and soul of Climate Watch, and this milestone
belongs to you.
Here's to the next ten years of discovery—together.
Date: 7/28/26 3:21 pm From: Patricia McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Get Ready for Swallow-tailed Kites
One other correction. The 2026 juvenile Swallow-tailed Kites on the Sulphur River were not seen being fed by adults.
Patty
Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer
On Mon, Jul 27, 2026 at 8:23 AM, Patricia McLean<plm108...> wrote: Thanks to Charles Mills who reminded me that, YES, Swallow-tailed Kites have been documented to be breeding in Arkansas again. Here's an article on it from Arkansas Game & Fish. Swallow-tailed kites successfully raise young in Arkansas after 130-year absence • Arkansas Game & Fish Commission
In addition, photographs have been taken this year of fledglings being fed by parents along the Sulphur River (found via boat).Â
I wish there was a "regular" place to find them this time of year. Southeast Arkansas is a real probability (Desha County), especially along highways 1 and 4, east of McGehee. You can check the eBird and ARBA records for them and see if there's a site near you that they "tend" to use during Aug/Sept ... but if you find an open view of the sky with open fields, and you see a flock of Mississippi Kites or you see something unusual in the sky, check it out. Just maybe.
Patty On Sunday, July 26, 2026 at 11:44:53 AM CDT, Patricia McLean <plm108...> wrote:
If you've never seen one of these beauties, just prepare yourself. They are amazing to watch and incredibly graceful in the sky as they dive for insects and nibble on them in mid air. While they are basically just plain black and white, their body feathers look incredibly soft, similar to the look of a Cedar Waxwing.Â
Historic records indicate they bred in Arkansas before the 1940s. There are currently attempts to document they are breeding in Arkansas again, and numerous adults have been spotted in favorable areas, all in the southern part of the state. After breeding season, they begin what is referred to as "post-breeding dispersal," which basically means they can show up in any suitable habitat across Arkansas. This most commonly happens in August and September where they can be seen flying over open fields, large chicken farms and along riparian areas. They primarily eat insects such as dragonflies and beetles.Â
I'm mentioning all this because Michael and I saw two out of four Swallow-tailed Kites yesterday, Saturday, July 25, mixed in a large flock of Mississippi Kites. Friend Dick Baxter told us about them so we drove down to the McGehee area and saw them on his private land.Â
While this is an early date for dispersal, we noticed ten Mississippi Kites floating and calling over our house this morning, which potentially means breeding and raising chicks is done and it's time to explore the vastness. So be sure and check all the kites you see flying above, and look for the one with the distinctly forked tail. They can literally show up anywhere. In fact, the first one I ever saw in Arkansas was over Hall High School in Little Rock. So, yes, anywhere.Â
Date: 7/27/26 8:30 am From: Ian MacGregor <00000489141846bd-dmarc-request...> Subject: Charlie Craig Fish Hatchery Renovations.
The manager of the hatchery spoke with me today, saying, that the renovations may start as early as next week. The contractor is on site. The hatchery will be closed during the renovations. His primary concern is public safety while the new ponds are being dug. I forgot to ask how long the renovations will take or if it will open as soon as the new ponds are in use.
Date: 7/27/26 6:25 am From: Patricia McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Get Ready for Swallow-tailed Kites
Thanks to Charles Mills who reminded me that, YES, Swallow-tailed Kites have been documented to be breeding in Arkansas again. Here's an article on it from Arkansas Game & Fish. Swallow-tailed kites successfully raise young in Arkansas after 130-year absence • Arkansas Game & Fish Commission
In addition, photographs have been taken this year of fledglings being fed by parents along the Sulphur River (found via boat).Â
I wish there was a "regular" place to find them this time of year. Southeast Arkansas is a real probability (Desha County), especially along highways 1 and 4, east of McGehee. You can check the eBird and ARBA records for them and see if there's a site near you that they "tend" to use during Aug/Sept ... but if you find an open view of the sky with open fields, and you see a flock of Mississippi Kites or you see something unusual in the sky, check it out. Just maybe.
Patty On Sunday, July 26, 2026 at 11:44:53 AM CDT, Patricia McLean <plm108...> wrote:
If you've never seen one of these beauties, just prepare yourself. They are amazing to watch and incredibly graceful in the sky as they dive for insects and nibble on them in mid air. While they are basically just plain black and white, their body feathers look incredibly soft, similar to the look of a Cedar Waxwing.Â
Historic records indicate they bred in Arkansas before the 1940s. There are currently attempts to document they are breeding in Arkansas again, and numerous adults have been spotted in favorable areas, all in the southern part of the state. After breeding season, they begin what is referred to as "post-breeding dispersal," which basically means they can show up in any suitable habitat across Arkansas. This most commonly happens in August and September where they can be seen flying over open fields, large chicken farms and along riparian areas. They primarily eat insects such as dragonflies and beetles.Â
I'm mentioning all this because Michael and I saw two out of four Swallow-tailed Kites yesterday, Saturday, July 25, mixed in a large flock of Mississippi Kites. Friend Dick Baxter told us about them so we drove down to the McGehee area and saw them on his private land.Â
While this is an early date for dispersal, we noticed ten Mississippi Kites floating and calling over our house this morning, which potentially means breeding and raising chicks is done and it's time to explore the vastness. So be sure and check all the kites you see flying above, and look for the one with the distinctly forked tail. They can literally show up anywhere. In fact, the first one I ever saw in Arkansas was over Hall High School in Little Rock. So, yes, anywhere.Â
Date: 7/26/26 7:16 pm From: Kelly Ann Chitwood <kellyannchitwood...> Subject: STKI - Rock Springs Cemetery
Rock Springs is a small community NW of Lake Monticello. We stopped at the community center and cemetery around 4:45 this afternoon and observed a Swallow-tailed Kite being harassed by the state bird . There were multiple MIKIs all gleaning insects from the sky. All birds were vocalizing.
My friend spotted it. This is not her first time seeing one. In the nearby community of Rye, she observed two last April.
Kelly Chitwood
Union County
El Dorado
Sent from my iPhone
Date: 7/26/26 3:43 pm From: Harriet Jansma <000007a2e0d8d68f-dmarc-request...> Subject: NYTimes.com: Guy Tudor, Whose Art Brought Obscure Birds to Life, Dies at 91
Explore this gift article from The New York Times. You can read it for free without a subscription.
Guy Tudor, Whose Art Brought Obscure Birds to Life, Dies at 91
A self-taught ornithologist, he won a MacArthur fellowship for his precise, resplendent illustrations that appeared in definitive field guides to tropical songbirds.
Date: 7/26/26 9:45 am From: Patricia McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> Subject: Get Ready for Swallow-tailed Kites
If you've never seen one of these beauties, just prepare yourself. They are amazing to watch and incredibly graceful in the sky as they dive for insects and nibble on them in mid air. While they are basically just plain black and white, their body feathers look incredibly soft, similar to the look of a Cedar Waxwing.Â
Historic records indicate they bred in Arkansas before the 1940s. There are currently attempts to document they are breeding in Arkansas again, and numerous adults have been spotted in favorable areas, all in the southern part of the state. After breeding season, they begin what is referred to as "post-breeding dispersal," which basically means they can show up in any suitable habitat across Arkansas. This most commonly happens in August and September where they can be seen flying over open fields, large chicken farms and along riparian areas. They primarily eat insects such as dragonflies and beetles.Â
I'm mentioning all this because Michael and I saw two out of four Swallow-tailed Kites yesterday, Saturday, July 25, mixed in a large flock of Mississippi Kites. Friend Dick Baxter told us about them so we drove down to the McGehee area and saw them on his private land.Â
While this is an early date for dispersal, we noticed ten Mississippi Kites floating and calling over our house this morning, which potentially means breeding and raising chicks is done and it's time to explore the vastness. So be sure and check all the kites you see flying above, and look for the one with the distinctly forked tail. They can literally show up anywhere. In fact, the first one I ever saw in Arkansas was over Hall High School in Little Rock. So, yes, anywhere.Â
Date: 7/25/26 3:56 pm From: Jay Jones <jonesjay62...> Subject: Re: Hooded warbler
I can imagine what a lovely sight and experience that must've been.
On Sat, Jul 25, 2026, 4:43 PM Debra Balicki <debandronb...>
wrote:
> Hooded warbler bathing in the forsythia bushes this afternoon when I
> turned the sprinkler on. A female tanager came and a bird I couldn’t
> identify along with the usual cardinals, chickadees and titmice. It was a
> joy to see the warbler. I have not seen one for years.
> Debbie Balicki
> Joplin, Arkansas
> Montgomery County
> Ouachita Forest
> Sent from my iPhone
> ############################
>
> To unsubscribe from the ARBIRD-L list:
> write to: mailto:<ARBIRD-L-SIGNOFF-REQUEST...> > or click the following link:
> http://listserv.uark.edu/scripts/wa-UARKEDU.exe?SUBED1=ARBIRD-L&A=1 >
Hooded warbler bathing in the forsythia bushes this afternoon when I turned the sprinkler on. A female tanager came and a bird I couldn’t identify along with the usual cardinals, chickadees and titmice. It was a joy to see the warbler. I have not seen one for years.
Debbie Balicki
Joplin, Arkansas
Montgomery County
Ouachita Forest
Sent from my iPhone
############################
Many of our birds come from beyond our borders. Migrants visit us during the breeding season and winter in Central and South America. There are several thousand resident bird species you have to travel to see. Dr. Ragupathy Kannan, Professor of Biology for the University of Arkansas, Fort Smith is known internationally as a champion in exposing birders to birds beyond our borders. He has led many trips to Costa Rica, Panama, Belize, India and Trinidad and Tobago to mention a few. Dr . Kannan selflessly uses these trips to provide funds for the Arkansas Trust and scholarships for bird research. Many of us have joined his trips and were introduced to birds, habitats and cultures, beyond our borders.
My trips expose birders to birds, habitat, and cultures and supports ecotourism. The successes of ecotourism are obvious when you experience the excitement of residents showing their owls, hummingbirds, Trogons, or other species they have been protecting. Travelers see new birds and our breeding birds in their winter habitat. They become aware of the challenges and how birds make a living. For 10 years, my trips to Costa Rica, Ecuador, and Cuba have done that. Last March in Ecuador I reminded the group that many species we saw in Ecuador would be coming through my yard in April and some would stay to nest. Bab Dioum said: “In the end we will conserve only what we love, we will love only what we understand, and we will understand only what we are taught.” Theodore Roosevelt said: “The wildlife and its habitat cannot speak, so we must and we will.” Dr . Kannan, I, and others are teaching and speaking for wildlife and its habitats. North America has lost three billion birds since 1970 and each year, 4% fewer birds cross our Gulf. I want to see, learn, and understand the birds we have while we still have them. You can gain a better understanding of the challenges our birds are facing by birding beyond our borders. My next trip is to Colombia in February 2027. If you want to experience birds beyond our borders, go on one of Dr. Kannan’s trips or contact me.
Jerry Wayne Davis
Hot Springs, AR
Date: 7/25/26 8:04 am From: Patricia McLean <000008e6fff5e5c8-dmarc-request...> Subject: Bald Knob Updates
Several folks are continuing to see at least one ROSEATE SPOONBILL at various times of day. Early mornings and late afternoons are often best but it's also been seen on occasion in the middle of the day. Almost always in Cell 2 and occasionally in the trees at Birch Pond.
Other birds of interest: Caspian Tern, Black Tern, Willett, White Ibis and a dark ibis. All in Cell 2.Â
Nearby at the ponds on Mingo Creek Rd, there's been an Anhinga making its rounds.Â
It's very hot out there so be sure to have sunscreen and water handy if you go.Â
Patty McLean and Friends of Bald Knob NWR
Yahoo Mail: Search, Organize, Conquer
Date: 7/23/26 9:43 pm From: <arbour...> <arbour...> Subject: Red Slough Bird Survey - July 23
It was mostly overcast, windy and warm on the bird survey today. 49 species were found. Best finds today were a Cave Swallow and a Least Tern. Here is my list for today:
Date: 7/22/26 3:22 pm From: Carol Joan Patterson <0000003a0ccbe138-dmarc-request...> Subject: Fw: In Memory of Jack Stewart
Thank you for this posting. We have lost a great leader.
----- Forwarded Message ----- From: Uta Meyer, Little Rock Audubon Center <audubonconnect_at_audubon_org_x5jyf2j4zn_4a25debb...>To: "<x5jyf2j4zn...>" <x5jyf2j4zn...>Sent: Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at 09:01:20 AM CDTSubject: In Memory of Jack Stewart
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In Memory of Jack Stewart
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| The Arkansas conservation community mourns the loss of Jack Stewart. He was an advocate for the entire landscape, its wildife, and its people. Jack pushed for innovation, new ideas, and conversation.
Jack's passion for conservation advocacy and action led him to serve in many roles, including National Audubon Society Board Member, many leadership positions with the Arkansas Audubon Society (now Arkansas Bird Alliance), and co-founder of the Buffalo River Watershed Alliance.
Jack supported many on the Audubon team and in the Arkansas conservation community, but his life's impact was much broader with years spent as an educator and global learner. We will miss his passion, laugh, and candor.
Thanks for everything, Jack. |
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Little Rock Audubon Center
4500 Springer Blvd.
Little Rock, AR 72206 USA
(501) 244-2229 | www.audubon.org/delta
Date: 7/22/26 2:44 pm From: Ragupathy Kannan <0000013b0ad14faf-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Gizmodo: Can AI Ruin Something as Innocent as Birdwatching?
Can someone find the original letter in Nature and post here (or send me?). Thanks!
On Wednesday, 22 July 2026 at 04:35:46 pm GMT-5, Ragupathy Kannan <0000013b0ad14faf-dmarc-request...> wrote:
Timely article and a wake up call. Thanks for sharing, Barry.
On Wednesday, 22 July 2026 at 02:47:26 pm GMT-5, <jwdavis...> <jwdavis...> wrote:
Thank you. There are many sites sounding the alarm, and I am seeing AI photos and misinformation shared on Facebook by people thinking they are real. A real danger on all fronts with AI generated misinformation including impacting science.Â
AI-altered images on birdwatching forums putting research at risk | AI (artificial intelligence) | The Guardian
Jerry Wayne DavisHot Springs, ARFrom: The Birds of Arkansas Discussion List <ARBIRD-L...> on behalf of Barry Haas <bhaas...>
Sent: Wednesday, July 22, 2026 12:28 PM
To: <ARBIRD-L...> <ARBIRD-L...>
Subject: Gizmodo: Can AI Ruin Something as Innocent as Birdwatching? Dear ARBIRDers,
My brother sent an interesting article some of you might appreciate reading: "Can AI Ruin Something as Innocent as Birdwatching?"
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| Can AI Ruin Something as Innocent as Birdwatching?gizmodo.com |
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Food for thought.
From the deep woods of west Little Rock,Barry Haas
Date: 7/22/26 2:35 pm From: Ragupathy Kannan <0000013b0ad14faf-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Gizmodo: Can AI Ruin Something as Innocent as Birdwatching?
Timely article and a wake up call. Thanks for sharing, Barry.
On Wednesday, 22 July 2026 at 02:47:26 pm GMT-5, <jwdavis...> <jwdavis...> wrote:
Thank you. There are many sites sounding the alarm, and I am seeing AI photos and misinformation shared on Facebook by people thinking they are real. A real danger on all fronts with AI generated misinformation including impacting science.Â
AI-altered images on birdwatching forums putting research at risk | AI (artificial intelligence) | The Guardian
Jerry Wayne DavisHot Springs, ARFrom: The Birds of Arkansas Discussion List <ARBIRD-L...> on behalf of Barry Haas <bhaas...>
Sent: Wednesday, July 22, 2026 12:28 PM
To: <ARBIRD-L...> <ARBIRD-L...>
Subject: Gizmodo: Can AI Ruin Something as Innocent as Birdwatching? Dear ARBIRDers,
My brother sent an interesting article some of you might appreciate reading: "Can AI Ruin Something as Innocent as Birdwatching?"
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| Can AI Ruin Something as Innocent as Birdwatching?gizmodo.com |
|
Food for thought.
From the deep woods of west Little Rock,Barry Haas
Date: 7/22/26 12:54 pm From: <jwdavis...> <jwdavis...> Subject: Re: Gizmodo: Can AI Ruin Something as Innocent as Birdwatching?
Thank you. There are many sites sounding the alarm, and I am seeing AI photos and misinformation shared on Facebook by people thinking they are real. A real danger on all fronts with AI generated misinformation including impacting science.
Jerry Wayne Davis
Hot Springs, AR
________________________________
From: The Birds of Arkansas Discussion List <ARBIRD-L...> on behalf of Barry Haas <bhaas...>
Sent: Wednesday, July 22, 2026 12:28 PM
To: <ARBIRD-L...> <ARBIRD-L...>
Subject: Gizmodo: Can AI Ruin Something as Innocent as Birdwatching?
Dear ARBIRDers,
My brother sent an interesting article some of you might appreciate reading: "Can AI Ruin Something as Innocent as Birdwatching?"
Date: 7/22/26 5:08 am From: Ragupathy Kannan <0000013b0ad14faf-dmarc-request...> Subject: Re: Jack Stewart passing
Jack’s impact was worldwide. He made friends everywhere. When I went to Malaysia on my Fulbright, he fixed me up with local birders although it has been decades since he taught there. He spearheaded a campaign to donate about 20 new binoculars to birdwatchers in Malaysia.  His friends in Malaysia are also saddened by his demise. Jack also gave me some Malaysian currency that he had carefully saved for many years and gave me Malaysian cookbooks to make sure I didn’t starve.  What a guy.Â
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPad
On Tuesday, July 21, 2026, 5:09 PM, JANINE PERLMAN <00001cca3220c1fa-dmarc-request...> wrote:
Many of us remember him with immense fondness for his passion, dedication, patience, and kindness. I am very sad he's gone. When it came to protecting birds and their habitats, he was tireless. He inspired us to keep at it, and have faith that every effort is worthwhile.Â
On Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 05:02:50 PM CDT, Carol Joan Patterson <0000003a0ccbe138-dmarc-request...> wrote:
A tragic loss! He was a wonderful man.
On Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at 02:54:46 PM CDT, Sandy Berger <sndbrgr...> wrote:
I just saw that Jack Stewart has passed away. What a sad day. He was one of a kind. I’m thankful that I knew him and very thankful that I got to see him, and Pam, at the Spring meeting. Thinking of you Pam. My condolences.Â
