Date: 10/13/26 8:53 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Bufflehead (1 report)
- Common Gallinule (1 report)
- American Bittern (2 reports)
- Red Crossbill (5 reports)
- Pine Siskin (green morph) (1 report)
- Lapland Longspur (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Common Gallinule (Gallinula galeata) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 12, 2026 09:05 by Tom Edell
- Whale Rock Reservoir--North End, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8708239&<ll...>,-120.8708239 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401817480 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Immature on southern side of Old Creek arm. This bird showed a pale yellow outer bill and a dull red inner bill, a white stripe on the flanks, and a white line on the outer undertail coverts. It had a brown back and held its primaries above the back while foraging. About the same size as the adjacent coots but slimmer and with a smaller head. Poor photos."
Red Crossbill (Loxia curvirostra) (12) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 12, 2026 12:15 by Andrew Flemingð¦
- Black Hill Flemming Loop, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.832963&<ll...>,-120.832963 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401869285 - Comments: "Seen with Mike Moss and Ann Stockert. Found earlier today by Will Knowlton. We initially found a small flock of at least 7 individuals in a pine tree around here (35°21'48.40"N 120°49'56.00"W). They were surprisingly skulky and quiet while they foraged and fed on the pine cones. Took a while of watching to get good views between the foliage, and every once in a while they would all take off and move to another tree. Eventually they moved to a mostly dead tree where we could get good views. There were at least 2 red males and 3 yellow females in the group. As I was leaving the area, another group of 5 flew overhead from farther up the hill, making flight calls. Ann and Mike got photos. They were large stocky finches with crossed bills. Males were reddish orange on belly, head and back, females yellowish with more brown or streaked areas. Brown wings without wingbars. White underparts with brown streaking."
Red Crossbill (Loxia curvirostra) (7) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 12, 2026 12:39 by Michael Moss
- Morro Bay SP--Black Hill, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8316064&<ll...>,-120.8316064 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401863510 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing found by Will Knowlton earlier somewhat cohesive group feeding on the pinecones on adjacent trees to each other, moving periodically, classic crossbill, male, immature and female plumage observed somewhat vocal light calls and singing notes pics tba"
Red Crossbill (Loxia curvirostra) (7) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 12, 2026 11:57 by Ann Stockert
- Morro Bay SP--Black Hill, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8316064&<ll...>,-120.8316064 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401883698 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "First heard and then observed with Michael Moss and Andrew Fleming foraging in the tops of the conifers. Male is dark reddish with dark wings and the female is greenish with dark wings. Photos"
Pine Siskin (green morph) (Spinus pinus (green morph)) (1)
- Reported Oct 12, 2026 09:52 by Ann Stockert
- Backyard Pond, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.662536&<ll...>,-120.662536 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401881263 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing⦠âtypicalâ not a bright. Shows yellow wash, paler with defused streaking, yellow undertail, and bright yellow (neon) wingbars. Photos"
Lapland Longspur (Calcarius lapponicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 12, 2026 10:40 by Jay Carroll
- Morro Bay Sandspit, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8670158&<ll...>,-120.8670158 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401825362 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "A sparrow-like bird with streaky brown upperparts, blackish streaks on sides and breast, white underparts, and face with buffy auriculars outlined in black; rufous panel on wing coverts bordered above and below with white; the pink bill was conical in shape, and a weak eye ring was present; the bird was mostly preening when seen, and was situated on the upper beach area close to a flock of resting marbled godwits; it flushed along with the shorebirds when two equestrians came by; photos."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 10/12/26 8:48 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- American Bittern (2 reports)
- Black-and-white Warbler (1 report)
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 11, 2026 10:15 by Terri Osborn
- Santa Rosa Creek-below Windsor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1064448&<ll...>,-121.1064448 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401575651 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Seen in the wooded area south of 5828 Windsor Blvd. at this location (35.566694° N, 121.10509° W). It was very active and foraging similar to a nuthatch along the trunk of a tree. It had black and white striping above and on the flanks with a white mid belly and chest. The white undertail coverts were marked with black dots. The throat was smudged black and its face was grayish white with a black eye stripe."
***********
You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 10/12/26 8:08 am From: njmann90 via groups.io <njmann50...> Subject: [slocobirding] Black throated Gray
Continuing W. Flycatcher and Nashville Warbler along with Black throated
Gray, and FOS Audubon's Warblers.
Near Vet's Hall SLO
--
Nancy Jean Mann (It/It's)
San Luis Obispo
âI wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But
that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with
the time that is given us.â
â J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ringâ¦
See more
Date: 10/11/26 12:24 pm From: njmann90 via groups.io <njmann50...> Subject: [slocobirding] More birds near Vet hall
Cooperative HY W. (Pacific Slope) Flycatcher hanging around front yard
(unfortunately camera battery died) and just now 5 Pine Siskens in backyard
on feeders. Near Vet's Hall SLO. Orange crowned Warblers in with Bushtits
and Nashville handing around front yard.
--
Nancy Jean Mann (It/It's)
San Luis Obispo
âI wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But
that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with
the time that is given us.â
â J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ringâ¦
See more
Date: 10/11/26 10:31 am From: njmann90 via groups.io <njmann50...> Subject: [slocobirding] Nashville Warbler
Small mixed flock just brought in FOS House Wren and HY/F Nashville
Warbler. Nashville is a new species for the yard (#85) near Vet's Hall SLO.
Hummingbirds have noticeably increased in numbers (all Anna's so far)
attracted by the grevilleas and the inexplicably re-blooming W. Redbud.
--
Nancy Jean Mann (It/It's)
San Luis Obispo
âI wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But
that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with
the time that is given us.â
â J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ringâ¦
See more
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 08:58 by Chris Henry
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401166361 - Comments: "*Scarce and early. One bird seen briefly but reasonably well skulking low in willows near the maintenance road. Medium-sized sparrow with a short conical bill, dark eye, reddish crown with a buffy central crown stripe, largely grayish face with warm buffy auriculars, dark postocular stripe that was flared behind the eye, pale throat and malar, relatively plump body, moderately long tail, lightly streaked breast with a buffy wash, reddish wings, and dull flesh-colored legs and feet. Silent. Attempted photos but were unsuccessful."
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 08:58 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401165755 - Comments: "*Scarce and early. One bird seen briefly but reasonably well skulking low in willows near the maintenance road. Medium-sized sparrow with a short conical bill, dark eye, reddish crown with a buffy central crown stripe, largely grayish face with warm buffy auriculars, dark postocular stripe that was flared behind the eye, pale throat and malar, relatively plump body, moderately long tail, lightly streaked breast with a buffy wash, reddish wings, and dull flesh-colored legs and feet. Silent. Attempted photos but were unsuccessful."
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 08:58 by Marty Freeland
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401331658 - Comments: "*Scarce and early. One bird seen briefly but reasonably well skulking low in willows near the maintenance road. Medium-sized sparrow with a short conical bill, dark eye, reddish crown with a buffy central crown stripe, largely grayish face with warm buffy auriculars, dark postocular stripe that was flared behind the eye, pale throat and malar, relatively plump body, moderately long tail, lightly streaked breast with a buffy wash, reddish wings, and dull flesh-colored legs and feet. Silent. Attempted photos but were unsuccessful."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 08:58 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401165755 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "*Rare but regular. New apparent AHY female seen well near the maintenance road. Small lanky warbler with thin slightly curved mostly darker bill, dark eye, black and white striped crown, grayish cheek, white throat, white underparts with moderate black streaking on flanks, breast sides, and undertail coverts, black and white striped back, mostly darker wing with dark primary coverts and white double wingbars, bold white tertial edges, largely darker tail, and dark legs and feet. There was a barely noticeable buffy wash to the throat and flanks. Aggressive, chased several Yellow-rumped and a Townsendâs Warbler. Creeping along branches like a nuthatch or wren as is typical of this species. Silent. Photos"
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 08:58 by Chris Henry
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401166361 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "*Rare but regular. New apparent AHY female seen well near the maintenance road. Small lanky warbler with thin slightly curved mostly darker bill, dark eye, black and white striped crown, grayish cheek, white throat, white underparts with moderate black streaking on flanks, breast sides, and undertail coverts, black and white striped back, mostly darker wing with dark primary coverts and white double wingbars, bold white tertial edges, largely darker tail, and dark legs and feet. There was a barely noticeable buffy wash to the throat and flanks. Aggressive, chased several Yellow-rumped and a Townsendâs Warbler. Creeping along branches like a nuthatch or wren as is typical of this species. Silent. Photos"
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 08:58 by Marty Freeland
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401331658 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "*Rare but regular. New apparent AHY female seen well near the maintenance road. Small lanky warbler with thin slightly curved mostly darker bill, dark eye, black and white striped crown, grayish cheek, white throat, white underparts with moderate black streaking on flanks, breast sides, and undertail coverts, black and white striped back, mostly darker wing with dark primary coverts and white double wingbars, bold white tertial edges, largely darker tail, and dark legs and feet. There was a barely noticeable buffy wash to the throat and flanks. Aggressive, chased several Yellow-rumped and a Townsendâs Warbler. Creeping along branches like a nuthatch or wren as is typical of this species. Silent. Photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 13:02 by Kilian Hampl
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401158771 - Comments: "*Expected. Dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bill, greener supraloral, diffusely streaked breast, âvestedâ appearance, slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked olive, etc. Lower-pitched metallic chip call. Aware that this subspecies now intergrades extensively with lutescens, but this individual appeared to be a straightforward sordida, at least from a phenotypic point of view⦠Escaped photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 13:02 by Chris Henry
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401164284 - Comments: "*Expected. Dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bill, greener supraloral, diffusely streaked breast, âvestedâ appearance, slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked olive, etc. Lower-pitched metallic chip call. Aware that this subspecies now intergrades extensively with lutescens, but this individual appeared to be a straightforward sordida, at least from a phenotypic point of view⦠Escaped photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 13:02 by Marty Freeland
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401331679 - Comments: "*Expected. Dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bill, greener supraloral, diffusely streaked breast, âvestedâ appearance, slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked olive, etc. Lower-pitched metallic chip call. Aware that this subspecies now intergrades extensively with lutescens, but this individual appeared to be a straightforward sordida, at least from a phenotypic point of view⦠Escaped photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (2)
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 11:49 by Chris Henry
- Meadow Creek/Monarch Butterfly Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6328654&<ll...>,-120.6328654 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401164289 - Comments: "*Expected. One on each side, and at least one continuing. Dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bills, greener supralorals, diffusely streaked breasts, âvestedâ appearance, slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked olive, etc. lower-pitched metallic chip call. Aware that this subspecies now intergrades extensively with lutescens, but this individual appeared to be a straightforward sordida, at least from a phenotypic point of view⦠Escaped photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (2)
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 11:49 by Kilian Hampl
- Meadow Creek/Monarch Butterfly Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6328654&<ll...>,-120.6328654 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401158056 - Comments: "*Expected. One on each side, and at least one continuing. Dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bills, greener supralorals, diffusely streaked breasts, âvestedâ appearance, slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked olive, etc. lower-pitched metallic chip call. Aware that this subspecies now intergrades extensively with lutescens, but this individual appeared to be a straightforward sordida, at least from a phenotypic point of view⦠Escaped photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (2)
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 11:49 by Marty Freeland
- Meadow Creek/Monarch Butterfly Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6328654&<ll...>,-120.6328654 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401331689 - Comments: "*Expected. One on each side, and at least one continuing. Dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bills, greener supralorals, diffusely streaked breasts, âvestedâ appearance, slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked olive, etc. lower-pitched metallic chip call. Aware that this subspecies now intergrades extensively with lutescens, but this individual appeared to be a straightforward sordida, at least from a phenotypic point of view⦠Escaped photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1)
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 11:21 by Marty Freeland
- Nacimiento Ave Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.614886&<ll...>,-120.614886 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401331701 - Comments: "*Expected. 1-2. Dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bill, greener supraloral, diffusely streaked breast, âvestedâ appearance, slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked olive, etc. Silent. We are well aware that this subspecies now intergrades extensively with lutescens, but this individual appeared to be a straightforward sordida, at least from a phenotypic point of view⦠Escaped photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1)
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 11:21 by Chris Henry
- Nacimiento Ave Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.614886&<ll...>,-120.614886 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401164293 - Comments: "*Expected. 1-2. Dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bill, greener supraloral, diffusely streaked breast, âvestedâ appearance, slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked olive, etc. Silent. We are well aware that this subspecies now intergrades extensively with lutescens, but this individual appeared to be a straightforward sordida, at least from a phenotypic point of view⦠Escaped photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1)
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 11:21 by Kilian Hampl
- Nacimiento Ave Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.614886&<ll...>,-120.614886 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401157815 - Comments: "*Expected. 1-2. Dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bill, greener supraloral, diffusely streaked breast, âvestedâ appearance, slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked olive, etc. Silent. We are well aware that this subspecies now intergrades extensively with lutescens, but this individual appeared to be a straightforward sordida, at least from a phenotypic point of view⦠Escaped photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 08:58 by Marty Freeland
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401331658 - Comments: "*Expected. Singles on the peninsula and near the maintenance road. Dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bills, greener supralorals, diffusely streaked breasts, âvestedâ appearance, slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked olive, etc. lower-pitched metallic chip call given by at least one bird. Aware that this subspecies now intergrades extensively with lutescens, but these individuals appeared to be straightforward sordidas, at least from a phenotypic point of view⦠Escaped photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 08:58 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401165755 - Comments: "*Expected. Singles on the peninsula and near the maintenance road. Dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bills, greener supralorals, diffusely streaked breasts, âvestedâ appearance, slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked olive, etc. lower-pitched metallic chip call given by at least one bird. Aware that this subspecies now intergrades extensively with lutescens, but these individuals appeared to be straightforward sordidas, at least from a phenotypic point of view⦠Escaped photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 08:58 by Chris Henry
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401166361 - Comments: "*Expected. Singles on the peninsula and near the maintenance road. Dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bills, greener supralorals, diffusely streaked breasts, âvestedâ appearance, slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked olive, etc. lower-pitched metallic chip call given by at least one bird. Aware that this subspecies now intergrades extensively with lutescens, but these individuals appeared to be straightforward sordidas, at least from a phenotypic point of view⦠Escaped photos"
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 06:55 by Kilian Hampl
- Arroyo Grande Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6287241&<ll...>,-120.6287241 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401173045 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "A drab, washed out fem/imm type here with photos (35.0997042, -120.6231810) about half a mile up stream there was a bright adult with fiery orange in the throat with bright white wingbars and a darker back (35.0964989, -120.6147240) they are structurally different from Townsendâs by a longer bodied bird with proportionally longer wings."
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 06:55 by Marty Freeland
- Arroyo Grande Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6287241&<ll...>,-120.6287241 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401331750 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "A drab, washed out fem/imm type here with photos (35.0997042, -120.6231810) about half a mile up stream there was a bright adult with fiery orange in the throat with bright white wingbars and a darker back (35.0964989, -120.6147240) they are structurally different from Townsendâs by a longer bodied bird with proportionally longer wings."
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 06:55 by Chris Henry
- Arroyo Grande Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6287241&<ll...>,-120.6287241 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401027836 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "A drab, washed out fem/imm type here with photos (35.0997042, -120.6231810) about half a mile up stream there was a bright adult with fiery orange in the throat with bright white wingbars and a darker back (35.0964989, -120.6147240) they are structurally different from Townsendâs by a longer bodied bird with proportionally longer wings."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 17:06 by Terri Osborn
- Santa Rosa Creek Trail--Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1005139&<ll...>,-121.1005139 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401170452 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird (Terri Osborne 10.08.26) - Bumped into Terri on our way to bird the willows below Windsor Blvd and Santa Rosa Creek Trail. By the time we began birding Santa Rosa Creek Trail, light was fading fast. We encountered a mixed flock of Bushtit, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Chestnut-backed Chickadee and Townsend's Warbler that keep us busy as the canopy darkened. We saw a small bird several times moving quickly in the upper canopy almost always backlit. One feature we could easily see was that the bird was completely gray below with black tail side tips. The bird stayed mostly buried in the upper canopy but allowed a brief photo op to get a few less-than-thrilling photos which revealed reddish brown smudges on flanks, gray face, two white wing-bars and complete white eye-ring. The location where we observed this bird was from the trail very near the cement riser with the man-hole cover a short distance east of the pipe-gate crossing the trail."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2026 17:06 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Santa Rosa Creek Trail--Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1005139&<ll...>,-121.1005139 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S401165465 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird (Terri Osborne 10.08.26) - Bumped into Terri on our way to bird the willows below Windsor Blvd and Santa Rosa Creek Trail. By the time we began birding Santa Rosa Creek Trail, light was fading fast. We encountered a mixed flock of Bushtit, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Chestnut-backed Chickadee and Townsend's Warbler that keep us busy as the canopy darkened. We saw a small bird several times moving quickly in the upper canopy almost always backlit. One feature we could easily see was that the bird was completely gray below with black tail side tips. The bird stayed mostly buried in the upper canopy but allowed a brief photo op to get a few less-than-thrilling photos which revealed reddish brown smudges on flanks, gray face, two white wing-bars and complete white eye-ring. The location where we observed this bird was from the trail very near the cement riser with the man-hole cover a short distance east of the pipe-gate crossing the trail."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 10/10/26 2:46 pm From: Thomas Slater via groups.io <tomslaterphotography...> Subject: [slocobirding] Common murre die out
Sadly, I counted 33 dead common murres from Pismo pier south to the Lifeguard 1 tower. Lack of food due to 72 degree seawater?  I donât know but it was sad to see. We saw several on the pelagic trip last Sunday also. 1 parasitic jaeger hassling western gulls for food.Â
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Pine Siskin (green morph) (Spinus pinus (green morph)) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 09, 2026 09:42 by Kilian Hampl
- 410 Pecan St, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.596334&<ll...>,-120.596334 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400582838 - Media: 17 Photos
- Comments: "**Continuing from yesterday afternoon, though based on better views this morning, this is not the bird I had on 10/1! Overall very pale Siskin with bright neon yellow wingbars and wing covert edges, pale contrasting face pattern, mostly dull whitish below, more sparsely streaked pale greenish back, more sparsely, diffusely, and thinly streaked on breast and flanks, yellow undertail coverts, and slight patchy green and yellow washes on parts of head and upperparts. Photos tba"
Savannah Sparrow (Large-billed) (Passerculus sandwichensis rostratus/atratus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 09, 2026 09:55 by Petra Clayton
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400674890 - Media: 1 Video, 9 Photos
- Comments: "Larger bill than other subspecies; overall paler; buffy (not yellow) stripe over the eye."
Northern Waterthrush (Parkesia noveboracensis) (1)
- Reported Oct 09, 2026 15:37 by Marty Freeland
- San Simeon SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1235286&<ll...>,-121.1235286 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400686863 - Comments: "A calling bird upstream, heard from the pedestrian bridge at (35.5947878, -121.1218512). Giving characteristic explosive âspink!â or âchink!â notes with a ringing, metallic, emphatic quality. Unlike any local species (perhaps most comparable to White-crowned Sparrow but cleaner, sharper, and more incisive in quality) and heard well by both observers who are very familiar with this species. Poor audio tba."
Northern Waterthrush (Parkesia noveboracensis) (1)
- Reported Oct 09, 2026 15:37 by Chris Henry
- San Simeon SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1235286&<ll...>,-121.1235286 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400687285 - Comments: "A calling bird upstream, heard from the pedestrian bridge at (35.5947878, -121.1218512). Giving characteristic explosive âspink!â or âchink!â notes with a ringing, metallic, emphatic quality. Unlike any local species (perhaps most comparable to White-crowned Sparrow but cleaner, sharper, and more incisive in quality) and heard well by both observers who are very familiar with this species. Poor audio tba."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 09, 2026 17:03 by Marty Freeland
- Santa Rosa Creek-below Windsor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1064448&<ll...>,-121.1064448 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400687097 - Media: 1 Photo, 1 Audio
- Comments: "Adult male at (35.5669741, -121.1052071). Chunky long-winged warbler with short tail, fine bill slightly decurved, nuthatching along branches. Neat black and white striping all over including crown and back, bold black flank streaks and undertail covs scalloped, black in auriculars and throat. Vocal including song!! Photos and audio tba."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 09, 2026 17:03 by Chris Henry
- Santa Rosa Creek-below Windsor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1064448&<ll...>,-121.1064448 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400687278 - Media: 1 Photo, 1 Audio
- Comments: "Adult male at (35.5669741, -121.1052071). Chunky long-winged warbler with short tail, fine bill slightly decurved, nuthatching along branches. Neat black and white striping all over including crown and back, bold black flank streaks and undertail covs scalloped, black in auriculars and throat. Vocal including song!! Photos and audio tba."
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 09, 2026 17:03 by Chris Henry
- Santa Rosa Creek-below Windsor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1064448&<ll...>,-121.1064448 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400687278 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "A bright bird, perhaps an adult male, at BAWW spot and a duller bird at (35.5671776, -121.1022376). Both small warblers with rather rotund structure, dull bluish upperparts with greenish back, bright white wingbars, white below except for bright yellow wash to chest and throat. Bright bird had a contrasty dark transocular and a thick breastband with russet and hints of blackish. Drab bird lacked contrasty transocular (but still had white eye-arcs) and did not have a noticeable breastband. Photos of first bird."
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 09, 2026 17:03 by Marty Freeland
- Santa Rosa Creek-below Windsor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1064448&<ll...>,-121.1064448 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400687097 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "A bright bird, perhaps an adult male, at BAWW spot and a duller bird at (35.5671776, -121.1022376). Both small warblers with rather rotund structure, dull bluish upperparts with greenish back, bright white wingbars, white below except for bright yellow wash to chest and throat. Bright bird had a contrasty dark transocular and a thick breastband with russet and hints of blackish. Drab bird lacked contrasty transocular (but still had white eye-arcs) and did not have a noticeable breastband. Photos of first bird."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 09, 2026 09:58 by Ann Stockert
- Laguna Lake Gazebo area 35.2666,-120.6858), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.685767&<ll...>,-120.685767 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400614674 - Comments: "Continuing in Eucalyptus near gazebo. Got several brief but decent views as it moved through the tops of the trees. Lime-green back, white eye ring, pale underparts, and two yellowish wingbars. I didnât see any chestnut color on the sides. Herb may have gotten a photo."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 09, 2026 17:03 by Marty Freeland
- Santa Rosa Creek-below Windsor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1064448&<ll...>,-121.1064448 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400687097 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "A beautiful fall bird with a fair amount of chestnut in the flanks, otherwise smooth gray below, lime green above, wide off-white wingbars, white eyering, rather stout bill, wings dropped and tail cocked, etc. Photos."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 09, 2026 17:03 by Chris Henry
- Santa Rosa Creek-below Windsor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1064448&<ll...>,-121.1064448 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400687278 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "A beautiful fall bird with a fair amount of chestnut in the flanks, otherwise smooth gray below, lime green above, wide off-white wingbars, white eyering, rather stout bill, wings dropped and tail cocked, etc. Photos."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) (4)
- Reported Oct 08, 2026 13:18 by Reef Comer
- Harmony Headlands State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.0018122&<ll...>,-121.0018122 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400431279 - Comments: "Gigantic vultures with broad wings, splayed primaries, and short tails. 2 clean adults and 2 apparent subadults, though one bird appeared to show much paler underwings than the other. I believe this was the same bird I had very close to here on Monday. All soaring together on inland side of Hwy 1 just N of HH parking lot. Circled for just under 15 minutes before heading E."
Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus) (2)
- Reported Oct 08, 2026 13:18 by Reef Comer
- Harmony Headlands State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.0018122&<ll...>,-121.0018122 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400431279 - Comments: "HY birds flying high up and S as usual. Compact, short-tailed buteos with obvious straight leading edge, dark primaries, bulging secondaries, and barred tail pattern. One individual significantly more brown streaked on underside than the other. Big movement of this species along the coast today. While they can show up in a good number of places in the county, this location continues to stand out as the most reliable."
Pine Siskin (green morph) (Spinus pinus (green morph)) (1)
- Reported Oct 08, 2026 18:20 by Kilian Hampl
- 410 Pecan St, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.596334&<ll...>,-120.596334 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400419401 - Comments: "**Apparently continuing bird seen initially on the sock feeders with other goldfinches. Ran and grabbed my camera but by the time I came back all the goldfinches had flushed off of the feeders and did not return. Bright pale Siskin with more defined head pattern, more sparsely streaked back and underparts, greenish wash on back, neon yellow wingbars and wing covert edges, and yellowish undertail and patchy yellowish wash on sides of breast and elsewhere on underparts."
American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 06, 2026 17:16 by Lou McGonagill
- Alva Paul Creek willow patch, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8655774&<ll...>,-120.8655774 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400343457 - Comments: "Continuing probable HY bird. Very active small warbler with long tail, which it often fanned. Mostly pale gray overall with pale olive back. Yellow base of tail and sides of breast. Thought I could see yellow on secondaries, but was very flitty. Gave a few clear, high chip calls. No pics."
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 06, 2026 17:16 by Lou McGonagill
- Alva Paul Creek willow patch, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8655774&<ll...>,-120.8655774 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400343457 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Small, compact warbler with short tail. HY bird with pale blue-gray head extending to malar, bold white eye-arcs, bright yellow throat and breast, greenish back, two vivid white wingbars, and clean white belly and undertail coverts. Identifiable pic."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2026 10:00 by Petra Clayton
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400429866 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing since 09/27/26 (Herb Elliott)
Lime-green crown and back; gray face; prominent white eye ring; pale underparts; two yellow-golden wingbars; no chestnut color on the flanks.--- Foraging in the eucalyptus trees in the gazebo area."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2026 16:50 by Terri Osborn
- Santa Rosa Creek Trail--Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1005139&<ll...>,-121.1005139 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400442372 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Seen foraging in a tree along the north side of the trail at the trailhead near the short wooden fence (35.567803, -121.103640). It was with a mixed flock of Townsend's Warblers, Bushtits and Ruby-crowned Kinglets. The bird had a lime green crown and back with double pale yellow wing bars, light gray face and throat, white eye ring, whitish chest and belly with faint rusty brown mottling on the flanks. Under tail coverts were white with faint yellow on the sides. It was very active and stayed mostly hidden in the tree foliage. This species was last reported at this location on 10/7/2021 by K. Colestock/ E. Elias."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 07, 2026 11:42 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6392555&<ll...>,-120.6392555 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400122999 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "*Rare but now regular. Continuing adult buried deep in the willows just upstream from the wooden bridge here: (35.137034, -120.638793). Overall slim grayish Night Heron with mostly black head, yellow cheek, dirty yellowish crown, deep orange iris, and thick bulbous bill, etc. Bad photos tba."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (3)
- Reported Oct 07, 2026 08:59 by Kilian Hampl
- Meadow Creek/Monarch Butterfly Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6328654&<ll...>,-120.6328654 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400119151 - Media: 12 Photos, 1 Audio
- Comments: "*Expected. Two on the east side and 1-2 more on the west side. Dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bills, greener supralorals, variably greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, âlarge-headedâ appearance, diffusely streaked breast, âvestedâ appearance, and slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked olive. All birds heard giving lower-pitched metallic chip call of this subspecies/type. Photos and recording tba, see media notes for additional comments."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 07, 2026 10:47 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--North Beach Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6345294&<ll...>,-120.6345294 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400120357 - Media: 10 Photos
- Comments: "*Expected. One with small flock at the entrance to the beach trail/amphitheater area here: (35.130608, -120.636607). Dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bill, greener supraloral, variably greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, âlarge-headedâ appearance, diffusely streaked breast, âvestedâ appearance, and slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked olive. Vocal, giving the lower-pitched metallic chip calls typical of this subspecies/type. Photos tba, see media notes for additional comments."
American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla) (1)
- Reported Oct 06, 2026 17:16 by Reef Comer
- Alva Paul Creek willow patch, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8655774&<ll...>,-120.8655774 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400032918 - Comments: "Continuing probable HY bird. Very active small warbler with long tail, which it often fanned. Mostly pale gray overall with pale olive back. Yellow base of tail and sides of breast. Thought I could see yellow on secondaries, but was very flitty. Gave a few clear, high chip calls. No pics."
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (1)
- Reported Oct 06, 2026 17:16 by Reef Comer
- Alva Paul Creek willow patch, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8655774&<ll...>,-120.8655774 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400032918 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Small, compact warbler with short tail. HY bird with pale blue-gray head extending to malar, bold white eye-arcs, bright yellow throat and breast, greenish back, two vivid white wingbars, and clean white belly and undertail coverts. Identifiable pic."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Oct 07, 2026 08:36 by Ann McDowell
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S400092228 - Comments: "Continuing bird. Seen on ground between gazebo and lake near a group of Scaly-breasted Munias. Two high wing yellow wing bars, tan chest. Tried for a picture, but went behind bush and was flushed."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 10/7/26 5:13 pm From: Brian O'Kelly via groups.io <losthillsguy...> Subject: [slocobirding] Black Bear at Morro Rock, chased into Lila Kieser power plant land.
Copy of a FB post... there's video.
A bear was spotted at the rock today. Morro Bay Harbor Dept., State Park and CA Dept of Fish and Wildlife helped guide the animal away from the popular tourist site and lost sight of it as it entered the Power plants 100 plus acre site. BE ON THE LOOKOUT AS IT WAS NOT CAPTURED!
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Vermilion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2026 08:54 by Ann Stockert
- Laguna Lake paved walking loop, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.687935&<ll...>,-120.687935 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399822947 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Continuingâ¦.flying back and forth across the paved loop between the dead tree/snags on the lake and the â mockingbird perchâ tree. Photos"
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 06, 2026 10:47 by Ann Stockert
- Sea Pines Golf Course, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8574414&<ll...>,-120.8574414 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399821653 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing⦠( Jim Royer first found earlier this morning) I first observed it briefly on wires between Fresno St. and Glenn St. nearest the golf course. It then flew to Cypress tree at the 6th hole, small shed, and pond. Juvenal âYellow-belliedâ flycatcher with pale head, large black bill and a notched tail that is paler brown than a Western. Photos"
Pine Siskin (green morph) (Spinus pinus (green morph)) (1)
- Reported Oct 04, 2026 15:31 by Ann Stockert
- Backyard Pond, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.662536&<ll...>,-120.662536 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399824437 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "A slightly larger and paler bird with reduced diffuse streaking on its breast and below compared to other near by siskins. Appears to be a âtypical green morphâ and not a âbrightâ. It did show a slight yellow wash, and had yellow undertail coverts along with a lot of bright yellow (neon?)in the wings. Photos"
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 06, 2026 08:50 by Jane Mygatt
- Santa Rosa Creek Trail--Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1005139&<ll...>,-121.1005139 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399845637 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Around 9:00 a.m. not far from the Santa Rosa Creek trailhead, maybe 60 m from the entrance here: (35.5657018, -121.1001538). All black and white warbler, dark chevrons on undertail coverts. Back of camera photo will be switched out in a few days. No internet service until 1:20 pm."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Craveri's Murrelet (Synthliboramphus craveri) (2)
- Reported Oct 04, 2026 13:19 by Tom Slater
- North Pacific Ocean 35.15694, -121.09275, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.092749&<ll...>,-121.092749 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399554386 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "The identifying marks for me were the dingy/dusky dark underwings, mostly dark with a very slight paler patch in the center, the black head that extended slightly below the eye, the lack of eye arcs or spectacles, the black/dark brown back, a longish bill and longish tail. Lacks white wedge in front of the eye often seen on a Scrippâs. The birds were in pairs and in deep water. I saw them in flight and recall a bright underbelly but no white underwing. See the photos below taken by Ben."
California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) (1)
- Reported Oct 05, 2026 12:03 by Reef Comer
- Hwy 1, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.0022546&<ll...>,-121.0022546 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399624109 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Spotted soaring with TUVUâs while driving and quickly pulled over. Appears to be a subadult bird. Was so caught up in getting an identifiable digibin, I neglected to note the color of the individualâs tag and number, though I believe it was orange. Watched for about three minutes before it flew directly inland."
Northern Waterthrush (Parkesia noveboracensis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 05, 2026 07:01 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399566047 - Media: 7 Photos, 2 Audio
- Comments: "*Rare but regular. One bird heard initially and then seen well deep in the willow understory on the west side of the maintenance road. I assume this is another new bird. This was a relatively large warbler with a long, mostly dark bill as well as a dark eye. The crown was a muddy brown color, as was the eye stripe, nape, back, and tail, the latter of which was also rather short. The long supercilium that extended past the eye, cheek, throat, breast, and underparts were all a pale buffy color, and all extensively streaked, though the throat and cheek more finely so. The legs and feet were a dull fleshy pink. The tail was bobbed incessantly. This bird was quite vocal, giving the loud explosive âchinkâ or âpinkâ chip calls characteristic of this species. Photos and recordings tba."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 05, 2026 07:01 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399566047 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "*Continuing AHY female/HY male (likely latter) on the maintenance road. Small lanky warbler with thin slightly curved mostly darker bill, dark eye, black and white striped crown, grayish cheek, white throat, white underparts with moderate black streaking on flanks, breast sides, and undertail coverts, black and white striped back, mostly darker bill wing with white double wingbars, bold white tertial edges, largely darker tail, and dark legs and feet. Creeping along branches like a nuthatch or wren as is typical of this species. Silent. Photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (4) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 05, 2026 07:01 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399566047 - Media: 17 Photos
- Comments: "*Expected. At least 4-5, with one at the Native Garden, one on the peninsula, one near the maintenance road, and 1-2 on Norswing drive trail south of main entrance. Very dull dusky olive Orange-crowned with large bills, greener supraloral, variably greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, âlarge-headedâ appearance, diffusely streaked breast, âvestedâ appearance, and variably brighter green underparts extensively streaked olive. Several heard giving metallic lower-pitched chip calls typical of this subspecies/type. Photos tba, see media notes for additional comments."
American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla) (1)
- Reported Oct 05, 2026 17:47 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Morro Strand State Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8678892&<ll...>,-120.8678892 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399730020 - Media: 1 Audio
- Comments: "Heard this bird chip calling as we were finishing our visit. Likely a continuing bird (Tom Edell 10.02.26) but the only visuals we had were of the small bird, back light and flitting high in the willows almost non-stop at the south end of the campground. The low light of dusk prevented any views of color. Luckily the bird was vocalizing along with chattering from a nearby Ruby-crowned Kinglet and calls from Chestnut-backed Chickadees and Anna's Humingbirds."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 10/5/26 8:30 am From: Thomas Slater via groups.io <tomslaterphotography...> Subject: [slocobirding] 400ish
Pelagic Birding Act 1
Friend: "Hey, so how was your cruise!? Did you eat a ton and drink a lot?"Me: "Nope, there wasn't any food or drinks. It wasn't that kind of cruise."
Friend: "Wow, bummer. What kind of cruise was this?"
Me: "A pelagic cruise."
Friend: "What's that? What do you do on a pelagic cruise?"
Me: "You look at birds that usually only occur out in the open ocean."
Friend: "Oh. Did you see lots of birds?"
Me: "Yes."Â
Friend: "So it was a good pelagic cruise then?"
Me: "Well, it was fun. Great people. Plenty of birds. But I missed the one I really wanted to see... a murrelet. It would have been a new bird for me. I keep a county list."
Friend: "Bummer. So you didn't see a murrelet, huh?"Â Me: "Oh, I did. Four of them."
Friend: "Hmmm. So you saw a murrelet, but it wasn't a new one?"Â
Me: "Actually, it was. It was either a Guadalupe, Scripp's, or Craveri's murrelet. Nobody knows which one, though."
Friend: "So you saw a new bird, but you can't count it?"
Me: "Not really, no."
Friend: "Huh. Birding is strange."Me: "Yes, yes it is."
Thank you Kevin Zimmer for calling out the birds without wavering; Ben for trying to help me get the murrelet; Jay and Dave for their great company (and years of help finding and IDing birds); the lady in pink for having amazing eyes and for keeping it upbeat the whole time, good job Sub-Sea tours; and Steve (Mr. Wingnut) for being one of the kindest humans to ever ride the waves. Â
Tom Slater
Slater Photography
(805)-441-6945
@surfinslater on Instagram
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 04, 2026 09:58 by Linda Terrill
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399238047 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Photos to be added. HY male with flock of Bushtits, Chestnut-backed Chickadees and Yellow and Orange-crowned warblers at campsite 81. Photos will be added to this checklist. Likely the same bird observed later along the trail on the south side of the lagoon."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 04, 2026 09:58 by Scott Terrill
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399238044 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Photos to be added. HY male with flock of Bushtits, Chestnut-backed Chickadees and Yellow and Orange-crowned warblers at campsite 81. Photos will be added to this checklist. Likely the same bird observed later along the trail on the south side of the lagoon."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 04, 2026 08:48 by Kilian Hampl
- Mentone Basin Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6132531&<ll...>,-120.6132531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399228055 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "*Rare but regular. Rather bright greenish individual high in a madrone on the north side here: (35.115896, -120.612649). Small parulid with small thin bill, dark eye, pale greenish yellow supercillium, darker but still light green head, greenish yellow breast and belly, paler vent, bright white undertail, and short darker tail. Upperparts generally not seen well. Silent. Photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 04, 2026 08:48 by Kilian Hampl
- Mentone Basin Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6132531&<ll...>,-120.6132531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399228055 - Media: 20 Photos, 1 Audio
- Comments: "*Expected. Continuing bird in the NE corner + new one. Both very dull olive Orange-crowned with large bill, greener supraloral, variably greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, âlarge-headedâ appearance, diffusely streaked breast, âvestedâ appearance, and brighter green undertail extensively streaked olive. Continuing bird heard giving lower-pitched metallic chips typical of this subspecies/type. Photos and audio of one tba, see media notes for additional comments."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Oct 04, 2026 09:45 by Petra Clayton
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S399327193 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing since 09/27/26 (Herb Elliott)
Lime-green crown and back; gray face; white eye ring; pale underparts; two golden wingbars; lacking chestnut color on the flanks.--- Foraging in the eucalyptus trees in the gazebo area."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 10/4/26 9:46 am From: Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1...> Subject: [slocobirding] Baltimore Oriole - Morro Bay yard , late report
Hello Birders!
Another doozie appeared in our yard on Friday, October 2. #164. A hatch year female Baltimore Oriole made a visit to our yard. While common in eastern USA it is considered very rare with limited records in the west.
My first impression of this bird when I saw it moving in the brush was of a medium sized, orange bird. Bill was medium sized, no apparent eye line or supercilium, two distinct wing bars showing no saw-tooth markings on upper bar, orange-yellowish underparts and orange rump. These were a few of the most convincing field marks that proved helpful in identifying this species and to help eliminate the similar female Bullock's and Hooded orioles.
Because of the notorious difficulty of separating this species from the common Hooded and Bullockâs orioles I circulated my photos to a few well know experts in the slo birding community, seeking confirmation of my id before posting.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Vermilion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2026 13:24 by Yamina Pressler
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398823316 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Spotted this bird almost immediately upon arrival. It was flying between high perches on the lakeside trail loop path. Eventually it landed on a dead tree on the lake side of the loop and I was able to get some closer looks. Much smaller the nearby Cassinâs kingbird on the same tree. Gray back and wings, red-orange belly + patches on face and head. One of my favorite desert species - I am delighted to see one here! Continuing individual first observed by Tom Edell on 9/30/2026. Photo"
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2026 10:53 by Yamina Pressler
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398829121 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Great find by Kelley B earlier this morning! Perched on a high branch at the corner of the dirt maintenance road turnoff. Thick bill, bright yellow belly with yellow extending up to neck. White throat contrasted with gray head. Brownish wings with slight greenish tint to back feathers. Notched tail, no white on the tip. Photos."
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1)
- Reported Oct 03, 2026 08:39 by Kelley Boland
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398782227 - Comments: "Landed right next to calling CAKI, although this bird was silent. Yellow extended noticeably higher on breast than CAKI, with a heavier bill. End of the maintenance road around (35.1123354, -120.6268590). Photos tba"
Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 02, 2026 10:00 by Kaaren Perry
- Morro Bay yard, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.844846&<ll...>,-120.844846 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398802601 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "My first impression of this bird when see moving in the brush was of a medium sized orange bird. Photos do not capture the true color. Bill medium sized, no apparent eye line or superciilum, two distinct wing bars showing no saw-tooth markings on upper bar as would be expected on BUOR , orange-yellowish underparts and orange rump. These were the most convincing field marks to identify this species and to eliminate the similar Bullock's Oriole."
Northern Waterthrush (Parkesia noveboracensis) (1)
- Reported Oct 03, 2026 10:10 by Petra Clayton
- San Simeon SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1235286&<ll...>,-121.1235286 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398873528 - Media: 2 Videos, 6 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing since 10/2/2026 (Scott & Linda Terrill)
Only other eBird report of this species at this location: 9/22/2014.
Chocolate-brown crown, nape, back, wings (no wingbars) and tail; broad cream-colored supercilium and throat; cream-colored breast, belly and flanks with long, broad dark stripes; unmarked cream-colored vent and undertail; dusky pink legs; slender dark bill; dark eye. --- Frequently bobbing its tails as it was foraging at the algae-covered edge of the creek up-creek from the pedestrian bridge over San Simeon Creek on Van Gordon Creek Road. It then flew in the direction of the bridge and was observed again in the underbrush down-creek from the Van Gordon Creek Road vehicle bridge. This could have been a second bird, but two birds were never seen at the same time."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Oct 03, 2026 13:00 by William Rockey
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398899020 - Comments: "Creeping along branches on the trail just north of campsite 81. Nearby a large bushtit flock. Plain throated, but well-streaked back, flanks, and vent. Photos to follow"
Blackpoll Warbler (Setophaga striata) (1)
- Reported Oct 02, 2026 12:15 by Petra Clayton
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398478122 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Most recent eBird report of this species at this eBird hotspot: 9/13/2025.
Overall greenish-yellow; yellow face with a broken eyering and a dark line through the eye; olive-yellow back; weak streaks on the light yellow breast and flanks; dark wing coverts; two bold white wing bars; white vent; long white undertail coverts making the tail seem short; dark legs with orange-pink feet."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 10/3/26 8:18 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- King Eider (1 report)
- Common Gallinule (1 report)
- Western x Glaucous-winged Gull (hybrid) (1 report)
- Broad-winged Hawk (2 reports)
- Vermilion Flycatcher (2 reports)
- Clark's Nutcracker (2 reports)
- Cassin's Finch (2 reports)
- Fox Sparrow (Thick-billed) (2 reports)
- Northern Waterthrush (2 reports)
- Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (1 report)
- American Redstart (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Common Gallinule (Gallinula galeata) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 30, 2026 13:50 by Petra Clayton
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398465456 - Media: 1 Video
- Comments: "Continuing immature since 8/19/26 (Jay Carroll).
Brown mantle; dark gray crown, neck and breast; short tail with white edges; white-edged flanks; dark shield; maroon-colored bill with yellow tip.
Vigorously bathing under the reeds."
Western x Glaucous-winged Gull (hybrid) (Larus occidentalis x glaucescens) (1)
- Reported Oct 01, 2026 07:21 by Lou McGonagill
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398367241 - Comments: "*Early. Subadult bathing for a few minutes with other gulls in the county park lagoon before flying off towards the beach. Similar to âpureâ Western Gull but bill larger and more bulbous with a stronger gonydeal angle, head with an ashy gray wash, gray mantle paler than expected even in nominate/northern Western Gull, and primaries more of a very dark ashy black than the very dark jet black of âpureâ Western. Slightly smaller size likely indicates female."
Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus) (1)
- Reported Oct 02, 2026 08:01 by Herb Elliott
- Hi Mountain--(Lookout, Hi Mtn. Rd., Hi Valley and Huff's Hole), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4250479&<ll...>,-120.4250479 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398442158 - Comments: "Seen at a considerable distance heading SE just before leaving. Mostly identified based on size and flight profile. Smaller and shorter tailed than nearby red-tail. Bulging secondaries and straight leading edge on wing visible. Appeared mostly brownish above and whitish below with minimal markings. Possibly a second individual, but couldnât confirm due to distance and heat shimmer. "
Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus) (1)
- Reported Oct 02, 2026 08:01 by Reef Comer
- Hi Mountain--(Lookout, Hi Mtn. Rd., Hi Valley and Huff's Hole), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4250479&<ll...>,-120.4250479 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398452807 - Comments: "Seen at a considerable distance heading SE just before leaving. Mostly identified based on size and flight profile. Smaller and shorter tailed than nearby red-tail. Bulging secondaries and straight leading edge on wing visible. Appeared mostly brownish above and whitish below with minimal markings. Possibly a second individual, but couldnât confirm due to distance and heat shimmer. "
Vermilion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 02, 2026 16:30 by Terri Osborn
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398514703 - Media: 9 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing immature male Vermilion Flycatcher reported by Tom Edell on 9/30/2026. The bird was grayish brown above, had brown wings and tail, light brownish gray head with mottling of red on the crown, soft black eyeline, black bill and white throat. Chest and belly were pinkish red with a lighter mottling down the middle. Flycatcher was seen in a willow tree adjacent to the boat ramp at the paved loop parking area. It was actively flycatching insects and returning to perch in the willow tree."
Vermilion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus) (1)
- Reported Oct 02, 2026 09:16 by Barbara Jean Gard
- Laguna Lake Park, San Luis Obispo US-CA 35.26275, -120.68431, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.684314&<ll...>,-120.684314 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398378954 - Comments: "Seen down at the loop end by the last boat ramp. Reported on 9.30.26 by Tom Edell, and Petra Clayton on 10.1.26 who included photos. Watched the flycatcher continually fly out from leafless branches to catch insects. Red crown with a facial mask. White throat that extended downward through a red beast and belly. Grayish back. Tree was tall, and my phone did not capture good photos."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1)
- Reported Oct 02, 2026 12:38 by Herb Elliott
- Hi Mountain--(Lookout, Hi Mtn. Rd., Hi Valley and Huff's Hole), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4250479&<ll...>,-120.4250479 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398442168 - Comments: "Very quick flyover going S oddly, so may be hanging around the area. Largish, pale gray corvid with long bill, black wings with bold white secondary patch, and black and white tail. Silent. (1:18 pm)"
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1)
- Reported Oct 02, 2026 12:38 by Reef Comer
- Hi Mountain--(Lookout, Hi Mtn. Rd., Hi Valley and Huff's Hole), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4250479&<ll...>,-120.4250479 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398449471 - Comments: "Very quick flyover going S oddly, so may be hanging around the area. Largish, pale gray corvid with long bill, black wings with bold white secondary patch, and black and white tail. Silent. (1:18 pm)"
Fox Sparrow (Thick-billed) (Passerella iliaca [megarhyncha Group]) (2)
- Reported Oct 02, 2026 08:01 by Reef Comer
- Hi Mountain--(Lookout, Hi Mtn. Rd., Hi Valley and Huff's Hole), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4250479&<ll...>,-120.4250479 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398452807 - Comments: "Large sparrows with enormous grayish-yellow bill, gray on crown, nape, and back, small, black, triangular spots around throat as well as on breast, and reddish-brown wings and tail. Call similar to CATO. "
Fox Sparrow (Thick-billed) (Passerella iliaca [megarhyncha Group]) (2)
- Reported Oct 02, 2026 08:01 by Herb Elliott
- Hi Mountain--(Lookout, Hi Mtn. Rd., Hi Valley and Huff's Hole), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4250479&<ll...>,-120.4250479 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398442158 - Comments: "Large sparrows with enormous grayish-yellow bill, gray on crown, nape, and back, small, black, triangular spots around throat as well as on breast, and reddish-brown wings and tail. Call similar to CATO. "
Northern Waterthrush (Parkesia noveboracensis) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 02, 2026 16:24 by Scott Terrill
- San Simeon Creek Mouth/Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1267052&<ll...>,-121.1267052 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398453136 - Media: 2 Photos, 1 Audio
- Comments: "Two birds interacting aggressively and calling incessantly all of a sudden. Both individuals visible simultaneously. The birds were below the bridge with the pedestrian walkway just past the east end of the boardwalk. Photos."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (4)
- Reported Oct 01, 2026 07:21 by Lou McGonagill
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398367241 - Media: 18 Photos, 2 Audio
- Comments: "*Expected. Singles seen at the native garden, peninsula, and Norswing drive trail north and south of the main entrance. Very dull olive Orange-crowned with large bills, greener supralorals, variably greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, âlarge-headedâ and âvestedâ appearance, diffusely but extensively streaked breast, and variably slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked dusky olive. Several birds vocal giving deep metallic husky chip call typical of many individuals of this subspecies/type. Photos tba, first 8 photos are not same bird as the one in the latter 10. See media notes for additional comments."
American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 02, 2026 08:43 by Tom Edell
- Morro Strand State Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8678892&<ll...>,-120.8678892 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398441946 - Comments: "Female plumaged bird overhead flitting about in willows. The bird remained beyond the close willows and was mostly backlit. Only one solid view showing the yellow patches at base of in the fanned outertail, yellow on the side of breast, and otherwise pale underparts. I never saw he back."
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Date: 10/2/26 12:10 pm From: Tom Edell via groups.io <TEdell...> Subject: [slocobirding] American Redstart, Alva Paul Creek Willows, Morro Strand
This morning female type American Redstart was in the Alva Paul Ck willows at the south end of the Morro Strand SB Campground.Tom EdellCayucos, CASent from my Galaxy
Date: 10/2/26 8:19 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Common Gallinule (2 reports)
- Western x Glaucous-winged Gull (hybrid) (2 reports)
- Cocos Booby (1 report)
- American Bittern (1 report)
- Vermilion Flycatcher (1 report)
- Pine Siskin (green morph) (2 reports)
- Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (2 reports)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Common Gallinule (Gallinula galeata) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 01, 2026 09:30 by Petra Clayton
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398179929 - Media: 2 Videos, 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing immature since 8/19/26 (Jay Carroll). --- Brown mantle; dark gray crown, neck and breast; short tail with white edges; white-edged flanks; dark shield; maroon-colored bill with yellow tip; dark eye; greenish legs."
Western x Glaucous-winged Gull (hybrid) (Larus occidentalis x glaucescens) (1)
- Reported Oct 01, 2026 07:21 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398136951 - Comments: "*Early. Subadult bathing for a few minutes with other gulls in the county park lagoon before flying off towards the beach. Similar to âpureâ Western Gull but bill larger and more bulbous with a stronger gonydeal angle, head with an ashy gray wash, gray mantle paler than expected even in nominate/northern Western Gull, and primaries more of a very dark ashy black than the very dark jet black of âpureâ Western. Slightly smaller size likely indicates female."
Western x Glaucous-winged Gull (hybrid) (Larus occidentalis x glaucescens) (1)
- Reported Oct 01, 2026 07:21 by Reef Comer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398162621 - Comments: "*Early. Subadult bathing for a few minutes with other gulls in the county park lagoon before flying off towards the beach. Similar to âpureâ Western Gull but bill larger and more bulbous with a stronger gonydeal angle, head with an ashy gray wash, gray mantle paler than expected even in nominate/northern Western Gull, and primaries more of a very dark ashy black than the very dark jet black of âpureâ Western. Slightly smaller size likely indicates female."
American Bittern (Botaurus lentiginosus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 01, 2026 08:07 by John Deacon
- Oso Flaco Lake (not for beach/ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6207848&<ll...>,-120.6207848 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398102547 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Heavy bodied bittern with bold brown and white streaking on throat, neck and breast. Longish, yellow and black dagger-like beak. Black marking on the upper sides of its neck. Found on the west side of the boardwalk just as we were entering the main part of the lake, about 30 yards from the start of the boardwalk. We observe it for several minutes as it hunted among the cattails. It eventually disappeared in the cattails and didn't return while we were there."
Vermilion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 01, 2026 10:35 by Petra Clayton
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398164018 - Media: 1 Video, 14 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing immature male since 9/30/2026 (Tom Edell).
Today observed perched in the tall, leafless eucalyptus tree with just fruit capsules, on the lake side by the last boat ramp, across from the parking lot trash cans.
Most recent eBird reports of this species at this eBird hotspot: From 7/14/2018 to 3/14/2019.
Nape, back, wings and tail grayish-brown; no wingbars; white chin, cheeks and throat; salmon-colored underparts, including the vent, with a yellowish stripe running from the breast to the belly; red crown; grayish-brown facial mask from the bill through the eye, widening in the auricular area; small black bill; dark eye."
Pine Siskin (green morph) (Spinus pinus (green morph)) (1)
- Reported Oct 01, 2026 14:55 by Kilian Hampl
- 410 Pecan St, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.596334&<ll...>,-120.596334 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398132456 - Media: 1 Video, 20 Photos
- Comments: "**Very rare. At feeders with other Siskins and Goldfinches. Although not as bright as some examples of this "taxon", this bird appears to fit it well matching or looking even better than numerous other examples of these on Macaulay, and shows all important features including the mantle having minimal more widely spaced streaking on a pale greenish base, a faint yellow wash over portions of the breast, sides, and stomach, a stronger face pattern, being paler overall, being paler below with finer reduced and more widely spaced streaking, very obvious and extensive neon yellow in wing coverts, rump, and base of rectricies, and yellow undertail coverts. This bird was also slightly larger than the nearby Siskins as well which is apparently typical of "green morph" birds. Many photos tba...I reduced the glare in all of the photos (I was shooting partially into the sun), but photos are otherwise not edited/enhanced. I was not able to edit the video so it looks duller/more washed out in it than it did in the field. See:
--> https://finchnetwork.org/all-about-green-morph-pine-siskins <--
for reference."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (4)
- Reported Oct 01, 2026 07:21 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398136951 - Media: 18 Photos
- Comments: "*Expected. Singles seen at the native garden, peninsula, and Norswing drive trail north and south of the main entrance. Very dull olive Orange-crowned with large bills, greener supralorals, variably greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, âlarge-headedâ and âvestedâ appearance, diffusely but extensively streaked breast, and variably slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked dusky olive. Several birds vocal giving deep metallic husky chip call typical of many individuals of this subspecies/type. Photos tba, first 8 photos are not same bird as the one in the latter 10. See media notes for additional comments."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (4)
- Reported Oct 01, 2026 07:21 by Reef Comer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S398162621 - Media: 18 Photos
- Comments: "*Expected. Singles seen at the native garden, peninsula, and Norswing drive trail north and south of the main entrance. Very dull olive Orange-crowned with large bills, greener supralorals, variably greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, âlarge-headedâ and âvestedâ appearance, diffusely but extensively streaked breast, and variably slightly brighter undertail coverts extensively streaked dusky olive. Several birds vocal giving deep metallic husky chip call typical of many individuals of this subspecies/type. Photos tba, see media notes for additional comments."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 30, 2026 11:10 by Petra Clayton
- Pismo Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6392555&<ll...>,-120.6392555 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397910690 - Media: 3 Videos
- Comments: "Continuing since 9/27/26 (Yamina Pressler).
Overall gray plumage; black head with a bold pattern of a buffy triangular crown stripe with some brownish tinge in the forecrown; a broad off-white facial stripe, that starts under the eye and flares out towards the back of the head, stout all gray bill with yellow feathers at the base of the lower mandible; orange-red eye. ---
Perched and preening in the willows on the north side of the creek, up-creek and close to the Cypress Street bridge.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video, which shows the Yellow-crowned Night Heron preening, scratching and stretching:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/55562249068/in/dateposted-public/" title="Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea), Pismo Beach, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/55562249068_e5f0483622.jpg" alt="Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea), Pismo Beach, CA" /></a>
**Birds of the World**
Self-Maintenace: Preening, Head-Scratching, Stretching:
"Preens flight feathers by nibbling at base of feather and running bill down length of feather. Preens coverts and ventral body feathers by nibbling at base and intermittently ruffling feathers. Preens dorsal contour feathers and scapular plumes by extending neck back over shoulder. Preens rectrices by extending neck underwing, nibbling base, and drawing bill distally over feather. Scratches head with claws on toes by lowering head toward foot and raising foot. Stretches frequently follow nest exchange. May stretch leg and wing of one side simultaneously.""
Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2026 10:38 by Herb Elliott
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397877386 - Comments: "While waiting for the Least Flycatcher to reappear along the maintenance road, a sapsucker flew across the road and moved up a large pine. We continued to focus on the flycatcher.
Sapsucker with red head and breast, no black border separating red crown from white throat, and no black chest band, white mottling on wings; back mottled black-and-white with extensive white speckling."
Red-breasted Sapsucker (daggetti) (Sphyrapicus ruber daggetti) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 30, 2026 07:17 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397905041 - Comments: "*A few days early, FOS. One bird in small pine on the east side of the maintenance road. Dark woodpecker with mostly red head and red breast, pale malar stripe, white wing patch, âracing stripesâ on back, etc."
Least Flycatcher (Empidonax minimus) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2026 10:38 by Herb Elliott
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397877386 - Comments: "At 10:56 AM, Kilian and I refound the flycatcher midway along the maintenance road. We heard it give a "whit" call a few times, but my view was single, brief, and at about fifteen feet and slightly below eye level.
Small, compact Empid with relatively large gray head, low rounded crown, and short thick neck; complete white eye-ring, whitish throat, grayish vest, two white wingbars, relatively broad bill with yellowish lower mandible and darker upper mandible. During my brief view I was unable to get images."
Least Flycatcher (Empidonax minimus) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2026 07:17 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397905041 - Comments: "***Very rare, always strikes me as somewhat odd considering how frequent they are in other parts of the state. While walking up the road to the amphitheater I picked up on what sounded to my ear to possibly be a whitting Empidonax. I followed the call and found it was whitting incessantly from the tall pines here: (35.110227, -120.627866). At this point I was becoming more convinced of a calling Empid, and as I walked around to view a section of the pine from a different angle I accidentally flushed the bird from the understory of the pine and it flew directly away from me in the direction of the maintenance road where I lost it. My view of the bird flying away was brief and not good, but it was apparent that it was an Empid and a small bright one at that. The call that I heard the bird give was a clear soft extended/slurred âwhitâ, sounding to my ear perfect for Least and differing slightly from the sharper whits of Dusky and Gray Flycatcher. I then went over to the maintenance road after it and along with Herb we were eventually able to relocate the flycatcher on the west side of the maintenance road here: (35.111768, -120.626974). Initially we only heard it give occasional short bouts of âwhitâ calls as it stayed back deep in the willows, and it was not calling as consistently as it was before. There was also an almost continuous stream of state parks employees driving through the maintenance road as well which made things very difficult. Eventually during a break in vehicle traffic the bird came in much closer and gave a short bout of whit calls close to us that we were able to hear clearly, though unfortunately the bird was still not visible. Not long after that the bird went silent and seemed to have flown back farther in the willows. We then opted to use a limited amount of LEFL playback: no response. We then on a whim followed it up with Acadian Flycatcher playback to which the bird began calling and then suddenly materialized on an open branch deep back in the willows at eye level where I was able to get a decent look to confirm Least Flycatcher. I then tried to get Herb on it but it immediately flew and we lost it. Over the next 30-45 mins we would continue to hear the bird call from back farther in the willows but it did not come closer and was not seen again. We last heard this bird late morning just before state parks vehicle traffic picked up and then a Cooperâs Hawk flew in.
As mentioned previously, my view of this bird only lasted a few seconds, but I was able to see that this was a very small bright Empid, and that Most obvious was the bright wing with strongly contrasting white wingbars contrasting starkly with the nearly black remainder of the wing coverts. The olive back contrasted slightly with darker olive head and the white eyering was complete and narrow. There was a faint olive vest that contrasted only slightly with the white throat and underparts. The belly and lower sides were off white with a slight yellow wash. Overall this bird appeared large-headed with a low rounded crown and a short thick neck. It was relatively short tailed and had very short primary projection. In the few seconds I saw it, it did flick its tail up once. The bill was of medium length and the lower bill mandible was entirely yellow-orange, whereas the upper bill mandible was dusky darker color. The bill base was broad and the bill tip was broader and not sharp, almost curved on the sides and not straight-sided. From what I could tell the legs and feet were dark. Overall my views were extremely brief and not very satisfactory, but were unobstructed and at a reasonable distance and nevertheless sufficient to confirm this bird as a Least Flycatcher. Unfortunately this bird did not cooperate for photos and/or audio recordings (I thinkâ¦)"
Vermilion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2026 11:44 by Ann Stockert
- Laguna Lake â Prefumo Creek Mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6930037&<ll...>,-120.6930037 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397882968 - Comments: "Observed across from the creek mouth with a scope. It had a reddish (slightly orangey) breast and belly, dark wings, back and tail, with a little red slightly showing on the head. I didnât really notice a dark mask because it was so quickly chased off by a Sayâs Phoebe. It also was smaller than the phoebe. I stuck around hoping it would show back up but to no avail. No photos unfortunately."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 30, 2026 16:00 by Kaaren Perry
- Morro Bay yard, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.844846&<ll...>,-120.844846 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397878724 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Bright individual, moving loosely with a small group of Bushtits. Visited the nearby bushes before perching on the birdbath. Was flushed off by HOFI. Small warbler, green upper parts, white underparts including undertail, white eyebrow and dark eyeline. Male?"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (3) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 30, 2026 07:17 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397905041 - Media: 18 Photos
- Comments: "*Expected, past peak now it seems. Two in native garden area and another on the peninsula. All dusky Orange-crowned with large bill, slightly greener supraloral, greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, âlarge-headedâ and âhoodedâ appearance, diffusely streaked breast, âvestedâ appearance, and extensively dusky-streaked undertail coverts. At least one heard giving deep husky metallic chip calls. Photos of two tba, see media notes for additional comments."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/30/26 4:50 pm From: Thomas Slater via groups.io <tomslaterphotography...> Subject: [slocobirding] Sick RB Nuthatches
Sadly, I had one deceased, red breasted nut hatch in my fountain, and another one sitting on the edge that allowed me to pick it up and put it into a tree so my dog would not get too interested. Iâm not sure why they are getting sick. Is anybody else having this experience?
Date: 9/30/26 4:38 pm From: Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1...> Subject: [slocobirding] More Fall arrivals - Morro Bay yard. CONTINUING!
Shortly after I posted this recent message to sloco a bright Tennessee Warbler dropped in. It was loosely moving with a small flock of Bushtits. Glad I had my camera ready.
Keep an eye on your yards. ð
Kaaren
Hello Birders,
First of season Fox Sparrow arrived today to poke around and take a quick bath. A FOS Ruby-crowned Kinglet arrived yesterday. Red-breasted Nuthatches continue to be seen daily since September 14. Golden-crowned and White-crowned numbers are increasing daily. While none are rare for the county it is always lovely to greet them on their seasonal return.
--
Nancy Jean Mann (It/It's)
San Luis Obispo
âI wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But
that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with
the time that is given us.â
â J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ringâ¦
See more
Date: 9/30/26 1:58 pm From: Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1...> Subject: [slocobirding] More Fall arrivals - Morro Bay yard
Hello Birders,
First of season Fox Sparrow arrived today to poke around and take a quick bath. A FOS Ruby-crowned Kinglet arrived yesterday. Red-breasted Nuthatches continue to be seen daily since September 14. Golden-crowned and White-crowned numbers are increasing daily. While none are rare for the county it is always lovely to greet them on their seasonal return.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Black-necked Stilt (Himantopus mexicanus) (4) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 29, 2026 08:00 by Jeri Edwards
- Lopez Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4758081&<ll...>,-120.4758081 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397605751 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "along lake shore, photos attached (for ID purposes, taken far away) Note the size difference between the Black-necked Stilts and Killdeer (first photo), and coots (third photo)
Last reported sighting at the lake was 9/20 (by Jeri Edwards)"
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2026 08:28 by Herb Elliott
- Pismo Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6392555&<ll...>,-120.6392555 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397270024 - Media: 11 Photos
- Comments: "Overall grayish body, black face with white cheeks and some yellow on crown. More compact in structure compared to nearby Black-crowned Night Herons.
First reported yesterday, 27 Sep 2026, by Yamina Pressler upstream of the Cypress Street bridge near Addie Street; continued this morning."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2026 15:31 by Doug Drynan
- Pecho Road Willows, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.85271&<ll...>,-120.85271 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397554547 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird originally found by Jim Royer this morning. Bird was located by other birders that were already on site and on the bird. The bird popped out briefly from the dense thicket right at the fence line with the putting green. I got good views, and a few bad pictures of the bird. bright yellow head and breast was visible. yellow extended to the flanks. Olive green black that contrasted nicely with the dark wings and tail. No wingbars. Undertail coverts and vent area were white."
American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2026 08:58 by Herb Elliott
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397553638 - Comments: "... female/immature-type: small, active warbler with grayish head and nape, white eye-ring, olive-gray back, and white underparts; yellow patches on wings and sides of tail, flicked frequently as it moved mid to upper level in the eucalyptus grove at the end of the last parking lot."
Painted Bunting (Passerina ciris) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2026 17:08 by Reef Comer
- Pecho Road Willows, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.85271&<ll...>,-120.85271 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397637996 - Comments: "Very brief, but definitive views of HY bird near ovenbird spot, around here: (35.3168118, -120.8531908). Quickly made its way through vegetation along fence line to Solano St, where I lost it. Uniform dull green passerine with slightly paler underside, finch-like bill and large black eye with fairly prominent pale eyering. Silent."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Cooper's Hawk on the feeders. Have not had one since 2024. Near Vets Hall
SLO
NJM
--
Nancy Jean Mann (It/It's)
San Luis Obispo
âI wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But
that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with
the time that is given us.â
â J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ringâ¦
See more
Date: 9/29/26 8:51 am From: Jim Royer via groups.io <jrmotmot...> Subject: [slocobirding] Pecho Willows birds
For those coming to look for the Prothonotary Warbler and the Ovenbird seen
yesterday I have some information on the location. It was foggy last night
so itâs certainly possible that yesterdayâs birds are still there today.
For those going into Pecho Willows, please park on Pecho and access the
trail that meets Pecho near the intersection with Henrietta. The neighbors
on the west (Solano side) do not want people parking there. The main trail
from Pecho Road is pretty clear. There is a side trail to the left early on
that goes toward the golf course fence. There is a another side trail under
a leaning tree to the right toward the muddy bay edge where waterthrush
have been seen in the past. The main trail winds to the back of the lot and
turns left toward the golf course near the back. The trail along the golf
course fence is not as obvious and it goes all the way back to the first
side trail to the main trail near Pecho. The redstart was very active and
was all over the lot. The Prothonotary was much less active and
methodically feeding in the willows along the golf course fence. The
Ovenbird was more skulky and seen more toward the middle of the lot where
trails are slight. Please do not go onto the golf course at any time and
try to stay relatively inconspicuous along the golf course fence since the
Pecho lot is owned by the golf course. Please do not bird along the fence
with the house at the back. Watch out for ticks and poison Oak. Thanks.
Date: 9/29/26 6:43 am From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Common Gallinule (1 report)
- Least Storm-Petrel (1 report)
- Nazca Booby (1 report)
- American Bittern (1 report)
- California Condor (1 report)
- Ovenbird (4 reports)
- Prothonotary Warbler (6 reports)
- American Redstart (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Common Gallinule (Gallinula galeata) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2026 14:10 by Petra Clayton
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397366952 - Media: 1 Video, 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing immature since 8/19/26 (Jay Carroll). --- Brown mantle; dark gray crown, neck and breast; short tail with white edges; white-edged flanks; dark shield; maroon-colored bill with yellow tip; dark eye; greenish legs."
California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) (2)
- Reported Sep 28, 2026 12:27 by Michael San Miguel
- Tablas Creek Winery, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.85931&<ll...>,-120.85931 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397275983 - Comments: "Whoa! WTF. Not expecting CACO at all. I was two wine glasses down when our waiter said âhey man, is that a Bald Eagle?â I had my binoculars and said âoh shit, those are California Condors!â Two were soaring with Turkey Vultures. Huge birds. Noticeably larger than TUVU. All black underneath with white secondary and primary coverts (opposite wing pattern of TUVU) Stoked."
Ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2026 17:10 by Andrew Flemingð¦
- Pecho Road Willows, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.85271&<ll...>,-120.85271 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397360024 - Comments: "First discovered by Mike Moss earlier this afternoon. Found it skulking in the undergrowth around here (35.3168961, -120.8532823) off the right side path as accessed from Solano St. I spotted it as it walked from the ground up a large fallen branch and got good unobstructed views of it from roughly 2 yards away. Olive brown above with white below streaked with black. The two bold black stripes on the sides of the crown immediately suggested that it was not a hermit/Swainsonâs thrush. Crown was slightly orange and it had a white eye ring. As I watched I also noted the walking and bobbing gait that separates it from other thrushes. The whole experience lasted less than 30 seconds before it jumped out of sight and back into denser underbrush. Silent and no photos."
Ovenbird (Seiurus aurocapilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2026 15:31 by Michael Moss
- Pecho Road Willows, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.85271&<ll...>,-120.85271 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397344545 - Comments: "Had my eye on the redstart and looked over on the ground. Something jumped in front of me first thought it was a hermit thrush and then lost sight of the redstart so I switched to look at what I thought was a hermit thrush. It hopped onto a log and at first view I was like thatâs an ovenbird the first thing I noticed is a smaller size a reddish medium orangish crown with dark lines on either side, dark lines on the white chest, bold white eye ring, had a view for about 20 seconds could not get a picture off before I lost it (fail) and it carried off into the thick under brush. Found it later with Will and Virginia noticed it was walking around on the ground amongst the understory."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2026 17:10 by Andrew Flemingð¦
- Pecho Road Willows, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.85271&<ll...>,-120.85271 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397360024 - Comments: "Huge shoutout to Mike Moss for stopping me as I was about to drive away to let me know he and Mike Bush had spotted this bird again after it was discovered earlier today by Jim Royer. Bird was around here (35.3167628, -120.8529802) on the edge of the small green of sea pineâs golf course. Spotted as it was flying from in and around the ivy covered fence down to the ground to grab bugs. Several brief views as it repeated this, then it flew to a willow branch nearby and stopped to eat a worm which allowed better views. Warber shaped with bright yellow body, greenish back, white undertail, and blue/gray wings. Beady black eye."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2026 15:31 by Michael Moss
- Pecho Road Willows, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.85271&<ll...>,-120.85271 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397344545 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing found by Jim Royer yellow head and chest white rear underneath blueish grey wings feeding along willow thickets adjacent to golf course pics"
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2026 15:10 by Petra Clayton
- Pecho Road Willows, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.85271&<ll...>,-120.85271 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397325406 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "First reported today by Jim Royer.
Yellow head; yellow unmarked face; indistinct eyering; dark eye; relatively long, pointed dark bill; yellow breast, belly and flanks; white vent and undertail covert; yellow-green back; slate-gray wings; no wingbars; relatively short slate-gray tail; dark legs and feet. - In flight the spread tail showed white panels. --- Observed in the vegetation at the golf course fence line."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2026 14:46 by Carol Comeau
- Pecho Road Willows, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.85271&<ll...>,-120.85271 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397339909 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Originally located by Jim Royer. Observed with a group of birders from Pecho Road (looking toward the putting green). The bird was active between the disc golf basket and the adjacent cypress tree, located in the NE corner of the green just north of the Pecho/Skyline junction."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2026 14:40 by Jay Carroll
- Pecho Road Willows, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.85271&<ll...>,-120.85271 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397320901 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Found earlier by Jim Royer; warbler with yellow head, breast, and back, slate-gray wings with no wing bars, and white belly and undertail; the bill was fairly large for a warbler; photos."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2026 14:07 by Ann Stockert
- Pecho Road Willows, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.85271&<ll...>,-120.85271 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397342041 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing⦠originally found by Jim Royer earlier today. Carol Comeau relocated it and we all had a distant view of it on the trunk of a Cypress at the hole #1 on the golf course. We got better views along the fence line at the open lot on Pecho Rd. It was sitting on the frisbee golf stand. Appears to be a female/immature warbler with a slightly dullish yellow head with dark eye, a large bill, olive back, blue-gray wings, yellow chest and belly, and a white undertail. Photos"
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/28/26 1:23 pm From: Jim Royer via groups.io <jrmotmot...> Subject: [slocobirding] Prothonotary in Pecho Willows
Prothonotary Warbler and an adult male American Redstart working along golf course fence in the willows at Pecho Willows in Los Osos, toward the backside (opposite side as Pecho Rd.) right now.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2026 13:02 by Yamina Pressler
- Pismo Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6392555&<ll...>,-120.6392555 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396999104 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "I was surveying upstream of the cypress street bridge when I noticed this bird perched in a tree on the north side of the creek. After taking some photos, I became distracted by a distressed brown pelican. I checked for the bird again on my return and was not able to relocate it. Small heron hunched over, relatively short neck was seen briefly stretched up. Light yellow patch below/behind the eye, yellow-orange crown on an otherwise navy blue head. Bright orange eye. Thick gray bill. Grayish body. Photos."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2026 06:46 by Kilian Hampl
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397034758 - Comments: "**Very rare. Today we were able to locate two birds with one bird h/o calling distantly to the south from the trail/road to the second comms tower (Mount Lowe on Google Maps). Call a distinctive loud carrying raspy âkraakâ, heard twice over the course of two minutes. While walking back later we accidentally flushed another from low in a fallen dead pine on the first saddle here: (35.334211, -120.609461). After being flushed it quickly flew off to the southeast and out of sight. It was silent. Liam saw this bird initially when it was perched, but I was only able to get on it when it flushed. My view was extremely brief and lasted only a few seconds, but I was nevertheless able to see that this was a stocky corvid similar in size to or slightly larger than the many Scrub-Jays we had seen over the course of the morning. The bill was long, dagger shaped, and dark, and the head and back were a pale whitish gray. The majority of the upperwing was black, but there was also an obvious thick white trailing edge to the secondaries. The tail was rather short, and the inner rectricies were black and contrasted starkly with the white outer rectricies. Due to the angle and direction the bird was flying, I was not able to see much if at all of the undertail, underparts, feet, and legs. We did not hear this bird call, and unfortunately we were not able to get photos."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2026 06:46 by Liam Hampl
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397034761 - Comments: "**Very rare. Today we were able to locate two birds with one bird h/o calling distantly to the south from the trail/road to the second comms tower (Mount Lowe on Google Maps). Call a distinctive loud carrying raspy âkraakâ, heard twice over the course of two minutes. While walking back later we accidentally flushed another from low in a fallen dead pine on the first saddle here: (35.334211, -120.609461). After being flushed it quickly flew off to the southeast and out of sight. It was silent. Liam saw this bird initially when it was perched, but I was only able to get on it when it flushed. My view was extremely brief and lasted only a few seconds, but I was nevertheless able to see that this was a stocky corvid similar in size to or slightly larger than the many Scrub-Jays we had seen over the course of the morning. The bill was long, dagger shaped, and dark, and the head and back were a pale whitish gray. The majority of the upperwing was black, but there was also an obvious thick white trailing edge to the secondaries. The tail was rather short, and the inner rectricies were black and contrasted starkly with the white outer rectricies. Due to the angle and direction the bird was flying, I was not able to see much if at all of the undertail, underparts, feet, and legs. We did not hear this bird call, and unfortunately we were not able to get photos."
Evening Grosbeak (Hesperiphona vespertina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2026 06:46 by Liam Hampl
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397034761 - Comments: "**Very rare. While walking up the trail/road to the 2nd comms tower (Mount Lowe on Google Maps) we heard a single flyover grosbeak give a burry chirp followed shortly thereafter by a sweet, descending, piercing âtewâ call. It sounded like the bird was calling somewhere between the first two comms towers here: (35.320640, -120.603120). We tried to locate it but failed and never heard it again and were not able to get a recording. It sounded to my ear like possibly H. v. brooksi (Type 1/Northwestern), which is the expected irrupting type in much of the west, but without a recording to analyze itâs impossible to say anything more beyond that."
Evening Grosbeak (Hesperiphona vespertina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2026 06:46 by Kilian Hampl
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397034758 - Comments: "**Very rare. While walking up the trail/road to the 2nd comms tower (Mount Lowe on Google Maps) we heard a single flyover grosbeak give a burry chirp followed shortly thereafter by a sweet, descending, piercing âtewâ call. It sounded like the bird was calling somewhere between the first two comms towers here: (35.320640, -120.603120). We tried to locate it but failed and never heard it again and were not able to get a recording. It sounded to my ear like possibly H. v. brooksi (Type 1/Northwestern), which is the expected irrupting type in much of the west, but without a recording to analyze itâs impossible to say anything more beyond that."
Cassin's Finch (Haemorhous cassinii) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2026 06:46 by Liam Hampl
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397034761 - Comments: "**Very rare. While walking up to the open ridge line here: (35.313920, -120.601100), we both heard two flyover passerines calling that we both independently recognized almost immediately as Cassinâs Finches, having seen and heard countless birds in both California and as a yard bird in Oregon (latter mostly Kilian). We were able to get on at least one of these birds late, but by the time we did they were well past us and were not seen well, essentially only well enough to call them passerines! They continued over the ridge to the SSE and out of sight. The main call we heard these birds give was a distinctive three syllable âtee-dee-lipâ, but at least one bird gave one two syllable âkee-upâ call as well. We were mainly focused on trying to get eyes on these birds, and in doing so regretfully neglected to get a recording."
Cassin's Finch (Haemorhous cassinii) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2026 06:46 by Kilian Hampl
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S397034758 - Comments: "**Very rare. While walking up to the open ridge line here: (35.313920, -120.601100), we both heard two flyover passerines calling that we both independently recognized almost immediately as Cassinâs Finches, having seen and heard countless birds in both California and as a yard bird in Oregon (latter mostly Kilian). We were able to get on at least one of these birds late, but by the time we did they were well past us and were not seen well, essentially only well enough to call them passerines! They continued over the ridge to the SSE and out of sight. The main call we heard these birds give was a distinctive three syllable âtee-dee-lipâ, but at least one bird gave one two syllable âkee-upâ call as well. We were mainly focused on trying to get eyes on these birds, and in doing so regretfully neglected to get a recording."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2026 08:28 by Herb Elliott
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396984094 - Comments: "Overall yellowish-green upperparts with a thin dark eyeline; paler unstreaked underparts with whitish undertail coverts; moving with a mixed flock of warblers, vireos, and chickadees in eucalyptus northeast of the gazebo."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2026 08:28 by Herb Elliott
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396984094 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Female/immature-type Chestnut-sided Warbler: lime-yellowish crown, white eye-ring, pale gray cheek; two yellowish wing bars, pale underparts with no chestnut wash on flanks, white undertail coverts. Moving with a mixed flock of warblers, vireos, and chickadees in eucalyptus northeast of the gazebo."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2026 18:19 by Kilian Hampl
- 410 Pecan St, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.596334&<ll...>,-120.596334 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396640988 - Comments: "*Late. Female or HY male came briefly to the feeder several times, each time being chased away almost immediately by an Annaâs. Small pale hummingbird with long, slightly droopy bill, and pale throat with minimal spotting, etc. Gave high-pitched squeaky calls when chased typical of Archilochus. Not able to get photos"
Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2026 10:59 by Norman Pillsbury
- ECR 4 - CBA Lopez Mountain CW, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.601058&<ll...>,-120.601058 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396674001 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Observed a smaller, lighter-built buteo soaring above the ridge along with a male Kestrel. The bird was a juvenile Broad-winged Hawk. It soared with its wings angled downward and showed brown upperparts, a pale-based, barred upper tail, a prominent white supercilium, brown streaking along the sides of the neck, a mostly creamy-white throat, and light streaking on the breast. The underwings were mostly clean white with some light brown markings, contrasting with dark trailing edges, wingtips, and a dark terminal band on the otherwise lightly-barred undertail."
Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2026 10:59 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- ECR 4 - CBA Lopez Mountain CW, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.601058&<ll...>,-120.601058 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396652698 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Observed a smaller, lighter-built buteo soaring above the ridge along with a male Kestrel. The bird was a juvenile Broad-winged Hawk. It soared with its wings angled downward and showed brown upperparts, a pale-based, barred upper tail, a prominent white supercilium, brown streaking along the sides of the neck, a mostly creamy-white throat, and light streaking on the breast. The main underwings were mostly clean white with some light brown markings, contrasting with dark trailing wing edges, wingtips, and a dark terminal band on the otherwise lightly-barred undertail."
Hammond's Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 12:44 by Andrew Flemingð¦
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396571602 - Comments: "Small and cute flycatcher continuing to hang out around the area of turned up earth near the creek bridge. Seen with the Claytons. Often perching on mid level branches and flying down to the ground to catch bugs. Quite good views. Greenish back with grey head, white throat. Yellow belly and with grey vest. Slightly peaked crown. Small bill with yellow base. Incomplete white eyeing. Double wing bars. Narrow forked tail. Long wing tip projection."
Hammond's Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 11:55 by Petra Clayton
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396270967 - Media: 3 Videos, 7 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing since 9/21/26.
Gray head; messy white eye ring; pale throat; light gray "vest;" light yellow belly and underparts; long primary extension giving it a short-tailed appearance; two white wingbars with a weaker upper one; small bill with a dark upper and an orangy lower mandible. --- Moving in the willows along Alva Paul Creek just past the foot bridge, occasionally briefly dropping to the ground, that was dug up recently on account of repairing a leak water pipe.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/55550465707/in/dateposted-public/" title="Hammondâs Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii), Del Mar Park, Morro Bay, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/55550465707_fb3ab98e39.jpg" alt="Hammondâs Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii), Del Mar Park, Morro Bay, CA" /></a>"
Bell's Vireo (Least) (Vireo bellii pusillus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 15:45 by Tom Slater
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396584425 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Pale gray Vireo, one distinct wing bar, very non-descript Bird. Pale buffy spectacled pattern around eye, thick short bill typical of vireos. Very active, crashing through the leaves. Top of the head and neck and back were slightly darker than the paler throat and chest.
I called Will Knowlton on my way to Oceano.Will said he would try from the south end of the lagoon and I would start in the north and we would slowly work towards each other. After about two minutes of searching, the second bird I saw was the bells vireo. I got good looks and then gave Will a phone call. He met me within the minute and we searched again for the bird and refound it about five minutes later. Brian Kelly joined us and got some photos that I will post."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (2)
- Reported Sep 26, 2026 08:58 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- ECR 4 - CBA Lopez Mountain CW, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.601058&<ll...>,-120.601058 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396651905 - Comments: "We observed two Clarkâs Nutcrackers while biking toward the large, open saddle located between the two repeater towers (about 4.2 miles from the parking area). Both birds flew from the road bank near the north end of the saddle (here: 35°19'00.1"N 120°36'06.7"W), crossed the road to the east, and briefly landed in a large, thinning pine down-slope that appeared to be on its way to becoming a snag.
The birds remained in view only briefly as we scrambled off our bikes to grab our cameras from our backpacks. We were too slow, and the birds flew farther east. At a distance of 40 yards, however, their jet-black wings and contrasting gray backs and heads were unmistakable.
We spent the next two and a half hours in the saddle area but were unable to relocate the birds. A third bird that flushed from the road bank (here: 35°18'34.9"N 120°35'57.9"W) also looked promising, but we were unable to get clear enough views to confidently identify it before it disappeared from sight."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (2)
- Reported Sep 26, 2026 08:58 by Norman Pillsbury
- ECR 4 - CBA Lopez Mountain CW, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.601058&<ll...>,-120.601058 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396673888 - Comments: "We observed two Clarkâs Nutcrackers while biking toward the large, open saddle located between the two repeater towers (about 4.2 miles from the parking area). Both birds flew from the road bank near the north end of the saddle (here: 35°19'00.1"N 120°36'06.7"W), crossed the road to the east, and briefly landed in a large, thinning pine down-slope that appeared to be on its way to becoming a snag.
The birds remained in view only briefly as we scrambled off our bikes to grab our cameras from our backpacks. We were too slow, and the birds flew farther east. At a distance of 40 yards, however, their jet-black wings and contrasting gray backs and heads were unmistakable.
We spent the next two and a half hours in the saddle area but were unable to relocate the birds. A third bird that flushed from the road bank (here: 35°18'34.9"N 120°35'57.9"W) also looked promising, but we were unable to get clear enough views to confidently identify it before it disappeared from sight."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 07:30 by Gregory Smith
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396661079 - Comments: "A Corvid larger than nearby Stellar's Jay. First seen foraging in Coulter pine after being found by NJ Mann. Gray body and head with all black wings and white undertail coverts. Stout all black bill. Took flight shortly thereafter where white tail with black central rectrices became visible.
(35.315856,-120.602026)"
Evening Grosbeak (Hesperiphona vespertina) (3) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 26, 2026 08:47 by Michael Mulroy
- Santa Rosa Creek Trail--Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1005139&<ll...>,-121.1005139 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396606942 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Three landed in the riparian area of Santa Rosa Creek, possibly to get a drink of water. We lost them after we got distracted by a large mixed-species flock that had surrounded us."
Evening Grosbeak (Hesperiphona vespertina) (3) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 26, 2026 08:47 by Will Knowlton
- Santa Rosa Creek Trail--Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1005139&<ll...>,-121.1005139 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396576150 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Three landed in the riparian area of Santa Rosa Creek, possibly to get a drink of water. We lost them after we got distracted by a large mixed-species flock that had surrounded us."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2026 09:10 by Lisa Ankenbrandt
- Oceano campground lagoon trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6270156&<ll...>,-120.6270156 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396564553 - Comments: "Drab warbler in Willows along service rd between state park vehicle parking and campground. Watched for 15 min. Also saw oc warbler on same rd. Greenish gray back, distinct dark line thru eye, bold white eye brow, white belly. Distinguished from oc warbler by white eye brow vs pale gray to yellow on oc. No streaking and white belly."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/26/26 7:44 am From: susang302 via groups.io <susang302...> Subject: [slocobirding] FOS
[Edited Message Follows]
Golden-crowned Sparrow at ground drip early evening with other smalls. First winter with pale crown. * edited the sex out--my brain playing memory tricks, no signing YET. thanks to Dom for the nudge!
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Western Cattle-Egret (Ardea ibis) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 18:16 by Yamina Pressler
- Morro Bay--Audubon overlook, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8383334&<ll...>,-120.8383334 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396253824 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Standing on a pier post. Small, white egret with yellow bill, black legs, and the slightest tinge of light orange on the head. It was hunched over most of the time, but stretched out once briefly so we were able to get a sense of its relatively short neck. Photos."
Western Cattle-Egret (Ardea ibis) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 17:56 by Michael Moss
- Morro Bay--Audubon overlook, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8383334&<ll...>,-120.8383334 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396252641 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing observed earlier by Jay Carroll small to medium sized white egret, solid orange bill, all dark legs and feet, possibly slight rust wash on front of crown pics tba"
Hammond's Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 17:10 by Yamina Pressler
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396255737 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Small and cute flycatcher flying between the ground and branches west of the footbridge in an area cleared of understory vegetation. Pointed out by MM when we arrived and presumably continuing bird from recent reports. Olive-grayish head with darker wings and light yellow belly. Two white wing bars. Long wing tip projection. Whitish, incomplete eye ring. Photos."
Hammond's Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 16:15 by Michael Moss
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396251759 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing Small gray empid slightly peaked rear crest of head, faint eye ring, small dark bill lower base of mandible lighter, 2 white wing bars, yellow wash on belly, whitish chin, small narrow forked tail, wings primary projections extend past vent. Pics tba"
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 08:38 by Herb Elliott
- Islay Creek Campground--Montana de Oro SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8838502&<ll...>,-120.8838502 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396190962 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "First observed near campsite 33; on my way out, I relocated it over Islay Creek mouth. Upperparts olive-gray, gray head, bright yellow underparts extending up through the breast, and large broad-based bill. Gave rapid twittering trill a few times."
Bell's Vireo (Vireo bellii) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 15:00 by The Spotting Twohees
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396239407 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Found earlier today by Ann Stockert and Kilian Hampl.
Refound first by Tom Slater then lost as Will and I came over. Will spotted it high in a tree along the shore.
Fairly plain vireo with a light breast and belly, gray back with one small thin wing bar. Gray cap, light eyebrow, mildly dark eyeline."
Bell's Vireo (Least) (Vireo bellii pusillus) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 07:13 by Ann Stockert
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396225366 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "**Very rare. Cooperative HY bird in a small flock of chickadees and warblers on the Norswing Drive trail south of the main entrance here: (35.107210, -120.624905). Foraged mid-height in the willows, largely in the open. Dull, drab vireo with a silvery bill of medium length and thickness, dark eye, uniform pale grayish below, slightly darker gray cap, back, rump, and uppertail coverts. Undertail coverts with slight buffy wash. Single visible wingbar. Relatively long tail, often held slightly cocked. Legs long and thick, and along with the feet were a blueish gray color. Silent. Our views of this bird were good and relatively close, unobscured, and at eye level. Photos"
Bell's Vireo (Least) (Vireo bellii pusillus) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 07:13 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396200471 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "**Very rare. Cooperative HY bird in a small flock of chickadees and warblers on the Norswing Drive trail south of the main entrance here: (35.107210, -120.624905). Foraged mid-height in the willows, largely in the open. Dull, drab vireo with a silvery bill of medium length and thickness, dark eye, pale supercillium, uniform pale grayish below, slightly darker gray cap, back, rump, and uppertail coverts. Undertail coverts with slight buffy wash. Single visible wingbar. Relatively long tail, often held slightly cocked. Legs long and thick, and along with the feet were a blueish gray color. Silent. Our views of this bird were good and relatively close, unobscured, and at eye level. Photos"
Pinyon Jay (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) (12)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 16:04 by Russ Namitz
- Carrizo Plain NM--MU Ranch, no internal access, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.4817506&<ll...>,-119.4817506 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396228455 - Media: 1 Audio
- Comments: "I was talking on the phone outside when a small flock flew into the pine trees at the MU Ranch. They stayed hidden on the far side of the trees, vocalizing and I was able to get some recordings. They flew off fairly quickly, retreating back toward Mount Pinos."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 08:58 by The Spotting Twohees
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396198124 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "First spotted by Nancy Mann in pine tree next to road near the red and white radio tower. As the rest of the group arrived it flew off to the southeast. Seen from 50' to distant as it flew away. Larger than a scrub jay. Gray body with very dark wings. Tail appeared white. Photos not diagnostic."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 07:30 by nancy mann
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396236791 - Comments: "Gray and white bird with a heavy Bill, feeding in a Coulter Pine (12" pine cones) larger than a California Scrubjay. Seen in a flat saddle approximately halfway between the two turn offs to the towers. (35.315856,-120.602026)"
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 07:30 by Carol Comeau
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396214797 - Comments: "Gray and white bird with a heavy Bill, feeding in a Coulter Pine (12" pine cones) larger than a California Scrubjay. Seen in a flat saddle approximately halfway between the two turn offs to the towers. (35.315856,-120.602026)"
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 07:30 by Mike Bush
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396210429 - Comments: "Gray and white bird with a heavy Bill, feeding in a Coulter Pine (12" pine cones) larger than a California Scrubjay. Seen in a flat saddle approximately halfway between the two turn offs to the towers. (35.315856,-120.602026)"
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 07:30 by marlin harms
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396213661 - Comments: "Gray and white bird with a heavy Bill, feeding in a Coulter Pine (12" pine cones) larger than a California Scrubjay. Seen in a flat saddle approximately halfway between the two turn offs to the towers. (35.315856,-120.602026)"
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 07:30 by Gregory Smith
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396214248 - Comments: "Gray and white bird with a heavy Bill, feeding in a Coulter Pine (12" pine cones) larger than a California Scrubjay. Seen in a flat saddle approximately halfway between the two turn offs to the towers. (35.315856,-120.602026)"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (4)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 07:13 by Ann Stockert
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396225366 - Media: 11 Photos, 1 Audio
- Comments: "*Expected subspecies/phenotype. At least 2/4 continuing with two birds in the native garden and vicinity and singles on the Norswing drive trail north and south of the main entrance. Very dull olive large-billed OCWAs with greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, large-headed, veiled hooded, and faint vested appearance, and extensively olive-streaked undertail coverts. Several heard giving thick husky metallic chip typical of this subspecies/phenotype. Pics of several tba"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (4)
- Reported Sep 25, 2026 07:13 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S396200471 - Media: 13 Photos, 1 Audio
- Comments: "*Expected subspecies/phenotype. At least 2/4 continuing with two birds in the native garden and vicinity and singles on the Norswing drive trail north and south of the main entrance. Very dull olive large-billed OCWAs with greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, large-headed, veiled hooded, and faint vested appearance, and extensively olive-streaked undertail coverts. Several heard giving thick husky metallic chip typical of this subspecies/phenotype. Pics of several tba, see media notes for additional notes."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Ridgway's Rail (Rallus obsoletus) (1)
- Reported Sep 23, 2026 07:12 by Gregory Smith
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395680047 - Comments: "Whoever cut down the tules on the near shore in front of the peninsula made it easier to see water ripples emanating from the peninsula vegetation. That is how I keyed in on something moving thru the vegetation. Eventually moved out of the vegetation onto the mud shore and then flew west across the small channel to more tules to the west. ~ five minutes later it reversed its route back to the peninsula. I had about 5-7 seconds of unobstructed views. Large bird for a rail with relatively thick, flesh-colored toes and feet. Lightish thighs and belly, along with whitish outer tail feathers. Mostly cinnamon-colored with buffy superciliary. Dark spots in upper/middle back. Pale throat, with long, slightly decurved bill that was mostly orange with a black tip."
Hammond's Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii) (1)
- Reported Sep 24, 2026 15:05 by Terri Osborn
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395959321 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Small flycatcher seen and heard calling in the riparian area west of the foot bridge. The bird was grayish-olive above with a slight crest on the back of its crown and a bit of white around the eye. It had a small bill, grayish white throat, a light yellow wash on its chest and belly and double white wing bars. Continuing bird found by Virginia and Barry on 9/21/2026. (Life bird for me)"
Hammond's Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 24, 2026 13:38 by Herb Elliott
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395924677 - Media: 5 Photos, 1 Audio
- Comments: "Small, compact Empidonax with short bill, short primary projection, and relatively long tail. Grayish-olive above, whitish throat, pale yellowish belly. During my stay the bird gave a sharp, "peek" call several times reacting to a couple Red-breasted Nuthatches.
First reported by Barry & Virginia (21 Sept 26)"
Hammond's Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 24, 2026 11:07 by Tom Edell
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395898609 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird in willows along Alva Paul Creek down creek from the small pedestrian bridge. It was foraging in the small opening created by the city's repair of a leaky water pipe. This was a small short billed empidonax, with two white wingbars, a messy white eyering, and a long primary projection. The bill had a dark upper mandible and a mostly orangish lower mandible. The gray head looked big and the tail appeared somewhat narrow at its base. The throat was pale and showed a weak contrast with the breast. One photo shows a clear gap in the primaries. (Photos)"
Hammond's Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 23, 2026 17:17 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395781917 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Based on comparative photos, this is likely the continuing bird reported by Virginia and Barry Langdon-Lassange on September 21, 2026. This small empid had a small head that appeared mostly round to slightly flat, with a faint crest depending on the birdâs posture. The upper part of the head above the eye appeared grayish-olive and contrasted with the mostly gray face below the eye. The forehead appeared steep, and the very short bill had a dark upper mandible, while the lower mandible was dark at the tip and transitioned to a lighter color toward the base.
The eye was dark with a messy eye-ring and contrasted starkly with the lighter tones of the face. The whitish-gray throat did not contrast strongly with either the head or the gray/yellowish-washed underparts. The upper back and rump appeared similar in color to the head and contrasted with the long, dark wings, which showed two white wing-bars and long primary projection. The tail was short and slightly forked, and no tail-flicking behavior was observed.
We watched the bird fly-catch in short flights for approximately 4â5 minutes near the taped-off construction zone before it disappeared from view. The construction zone is in the willow grove a few yards south and west of the walking bridge at the north end of the park. We also observed a small, unidentified empid fly in and interact with the Hammond's for just a second before it flew from view."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (3)
- Reported Sep 23, 2026 10:45 by Kevin Zimmer
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.63186&<ll...>,-120.63186 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395953801 - Media: 16 Photos
- Comments: "At least 3, possibly as many as 5. We had 1 fly over the road headed south as we were approaching the Black Butte repeater station. Ten minutes later, we had a perched pair of nutcrackers together for a couple of minutes before they both flew out of sight to the west. 30 minutes later, as we were starting our return hike, we again encountered a feeding pair of birds along the road (possibly the same pair) about 1/4-mile west of our previous sighting. Photos to follow."
Northern Waterthrush (Parkesia noveboracensis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 24, 2026 07:09 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395873254 - Comments: "*Rare but regular. Likely a new individual, unfortunately h/o chinking loudly for about a minute somewhere from the Redstart location on the Norswing Drive trail. Call a very distinctive loud metallic âchinkâ."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (5)
- Reported Sep 24, 2026 07:09 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395873254 - Media: 14 Photos
- Comments: "*Expected. Likely all continuing with two in the native garden, one at the amphitheater, and two on the Norswing Drive trail (singles north and south of main entrance). Very dull large-billed OCWAs with greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, large-headed, faint hooded, and vested appearance, and extensive olive streaking on contrastingly brighter undertail coverts. Nearly all heard giving thick harsh metallic chip calls, lower-pitched and huskier than lutescens. Photos of several, see media comments for additional notes."
Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 24, 2026 07:09 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395873254 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "*Rare but regular. HY male seen briefly near the native garden here: (35.108548, -120.627835). Colorful Grosbeak with dull pinkish bill, partially molted black and brownish head mostly pale below with some slight rosy color starting to molt in on breast and dark streaking on the flanks, black and white wing coverts, etc. Overall my views of this bird were poor and consistently obscured, but were rather close as it foraged deep in the shrubbery. Not long after I first saw it the bird moved slightly and then completely disappeared not to be seen again. Silent. Photos tba"
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Hammond's Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii) (1)
- Reported Sep 23, 2026 18:40 by Michael Moss
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395661718 - Comments: "Continuing originally found by Barry and Virginia then refound by Steve this afternoon small gray empid feeding throughout the top and mid canopy over, yellow wash to belly, wings with long projections past vent, faint eye ring, small fork tail, tiny bill was unable to capture a photo of any worth as the lighting was poor at best but had several decent views"
Hammond's Flycatcher (Empidonax hammondii) (1)
- Reported Sep 23, 2026 18:15 by Mike Bush
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395658876 - Comments: "Reported earlier this evening. Fast moving, rarely perching very small flycatcher with overall gray tones and two wingbars. Rounded head with small bill; long primary feather projections. Pale around the eye."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 23, 2026 08:28 by Doug Drynan
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395628963 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "High flying bird. strong direct flight over a pine filled canyon. I got good looks of the bird with my binoculars as it was flying fast away from me. But by the time I got my camera up, the bird was in a steep dive with wings tucked and it appeared to enter a stand of trees across the canyon. Bird was smaller than a crow, larger than a stellers jay. Gray underside with white undertail coverts and tail. I also clearly saw the white secondary patches on black wings. bird was silent as it flew across the canyon. it was unmistakably a Clark's Nutcracker with the overall shape, pattern of colors. long dark bill and short tail. bird appeared to dive down into the trees downhill and to the east of the black Butte repeater station. But by the time I got over there and searched around, I did not see the bird anywhere. I waited around for about a half hour. And then I left the area."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (2)
- Reported Sep 22, 2026 10:58 by Ann Stockert
- Arroyo Grande Creek--Fair Oaks Ave Bridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.5872571&<ll...>,-120.5872571 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395597593 - Comments: "*Expected. Not sure if continuing or new. Very dull large-billed OCWAs with greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, large-headed, faint hooded, and vested appearance, streaked breast, and extensively olive-streaked undertail coverts. Both giving thick metallic junco-like chip calls and one singing musical slower-paced and incomplete-sounding trilled song typical of this subspecies/phenotype. Photos"
Virginia's Warbler (Leiothlypis virginiae) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 23, 2026 09:22 by Ann Stockert
- Backyard Pond, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.662536&<ll...>,-120.662536 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395590654 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "(LIFER) While sitting on my back deck watching the many birds that visit the feeder and birdbaths I heard a warbler chip I didnât recognize. Fortunately I grabbed my camera instead of my binoculars or I wouldnât have gotten photos. Overall dull gray with light yellow patch on the breast and slightly brighter yellow on the undertail coverts, along with a thin white eyering. No green in the wings which would eliminate a Nashville. Photos"
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/23/26 9:37 am From: ChicoBill via groups.io <w.e.haas2...> Subject: Re: [slocobirding] Crow behavior question
Not only normal, but important! Lots of information exchange going on, of course - things like where to roost, where the food was today and will be tomorrow, not to mention, there's not only safety in numbers, but moving in progressive waves reduces predation risk from hawks or owls (of which I'm reminded having just last night watched an adult female Cooper's Hawk harass our neighborhood AMCR pair, which she probably would not have done if they had been had been 50 or 60 in number) while obfuscating a direct line observation to the final roost site - it's also where the kids pick up (good & bad) habits! So, there is both a secondary social component - meeting up nightly with smaller groups (note that it's not always the same individuals that all depart at the same time) that allows for greater information exchange and socialization and maybe even some decision-making based on changing group information - with an added measure of security.
I highly recommend that you read "In the Company of Crows and Ravens" by John M. Marzluff and Tony Angel.
By the way, we humans often complain about traffic when visiting LA, San Diego, San Francisco...but for the American Crow, when the numbers get really large, it can be murder!
--
Bill Haas
Paso Robles
Date: 9/22/26 9:42 pm From: Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1...> Subject: [slocobirding] A tiny warbler fallout in our yard this afternoon.
Just when I thought the possibility of something interesting passing through our little bird yard today was over, at close to 4:15 pm I had a pleasant surprise.
In less than 5 minutes 3 Yellow Warblers, 2 Orange-crowns and a flashy male Townsend's arrived, each vying for space at the bird bath. A single Chestnut-backed Chickadee and a small flock of Bushtits arrived as well. While no species is considered rare or unusual, the number of warblers moving together is not typical here.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (2)
- Reported Sep 21, 2026 07:04 by Reef Comer
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395096206 - Comments: "Continuing here: 35.3141315, -120.6012821. Am kinda amazed I found these birds despite how densely fogged in it was up here. Both birds flew in and foraged in the firebreak for 2-3 minutes before taking off. Medium-size, mostly pale gray corvids with long bill, mostly black wings with white secondaries, and vivid black and white tail. Silent. Seemed frantically intent on finding food and canât help but wonder how all these irrupting birds are faring in terms of getting enough to eat."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (3) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 21, 2026 14:27 by Eric Wier
- Mt Lowe Rd, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6107211&<ll...>,-120.6107211 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395274176 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "First discovered by Jay Carroll a few days ago. About fifteen minutes after I began birding, a Clarkâs called, and about ten minutes later, one flew across my field of view. Two individuals were foraging near the large red and white communications tower, and a third was seen about 0.5 mile south. I heard only four or so vocalizations."
Yellow-breasted Chat (Icteria virens) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 21, 2026 14:00 by Terri Osborn
- Hardie Park/Cayucos Creek (Ocean Ave Bridge to Hwy 1 Bridge), Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9062489&<ll...>,-120.9062489 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395369275 - Media: 12 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird, seen in the creek bed just west of the Hwy 1 Bridge. Moved in and out of the willows as it appeared to forage along the creek. It held its mouth open all the time and I could see an injury or infection around the mouth which is visible in my photos. (I'll advise Pacific Wildlife Care of the injury but it may be too mobile for them to catch it to apply medical treatment.)"
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 21, 2026 07:52 by Herb Elliott
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395030882 - Media: 10 Photos
- Comments: "Curtis first identified the Bobolink by its flight call. Within a few seconds, the bird flew over us, circled once, and continued flying eastward. I was able to get a few low-resolution images. (7:58 am)"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (2)
- Reported Sep 22, 2026 10:58 by Kilian Hampl
- Arroyo Grande Creek--Fair Oaks Ave Bridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.5872571&<ll...>,-120.5872571 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395337954 - Comments: "*Expected. Not sure if continuing or new. Very dull large-billed OCWAs with greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, large-headed, faint hooded, and vested appearance, streaked breast, and extensively olive-streaked undertail coverts. Both giving thick metallic junco-like chip calls and one singing musical slower-paced and incomplete-sounding trilled song typical of this subspecies/phenotype. Photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1)
- Reported Sep 22, 2026 09:07 by Kilian Hampl
- Mentone Basin Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6132531&<ll...>,-120.6132531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395337113 - Comments: "*Expected. Very dull, large-billed OCWA with greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, large-headed, faint hooded, and vested appearance, streaked breast, and extensively olive-streaked undertail coverts. Thick metallic chip call. Photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1)
- Reported Sep 22, 2026 09:07 by Ann Stockert
- Mentone Basin Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6132531&<ll...>,-120.6132531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395342932 - Comments: "*Expected. Very dull, large-billed OCWA with greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, large-headed, faint hooded, and vested appearance, streaked breast, and extensively olive-streaked undertail coverts. Thick metallic chip call. Photos"
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/22/26 10:54 am From: Ginger Langdon-Lassagne via groups.io <binzer...> Subject: [slocobirding] Reminder: RSVP for the Bird Atlas Meet-up!
Hi Folks! This is your nudge to RSVP for our first California Bird Atlas Meet-up! I need a reasonably-accurate headcount, please.
The Relevant Detailsâ¦.
WHO: all Bird Atlas Volunteers! If youâve only posted a list or three to the Atlas portal, YOU COUNT!
WHAT: a low-key, social gathering, with a very brief presentation of where we stand in the data gathering, so far, and a bit of very informal Q&A, (hopefully) answered by me. also, complaining, kvetching, ventingâ¦Let me hear it! Together, we can make improvements to the process, along the way.
WHERE: Oak & Otter Brewing Co.
181 Tank Farm Rd., Ste 110
SLO, CA 93401
(behind trader joeâs, across from tractor supply)
WHEN: Tuesday, 29 SEPT 2026
4:30pm to 6:30pm
WHY HERE: Oak & Otter is a very small, very friendly, all-ages brewpub that serves not only beer & wine but their own homemade non alcoholic ginger ale & rootbeer, and I can personally vouch that their food is delicious (with gluten-free & vegetarian options).
Hereâs their menu: https://www.oakandotterbrewing.com/kitchenmenu It seemed like the perfect venue to gather on their little patio and get a chance to talk about the things that worked and the things we can do better in the future.
RSVP: please email me at <binzer...> <mailto:<binzer...>, just so I have a rough headcount for how much space we need to rope off.
Hope you can make it!
Ginger Langdon-Lassagne
<binzer...>
Regional Coordinator, SLO county
California Bird Atlas
Date: 9/22/26 7:39 am From: Alan Schmierer via groups.io <aaschmierer...> Subject: [slocobirding] Crow behavior question
Each night just before sundown (6:40 to 7:00 last night) about 500 crows move up the Route 1 corridor past my house toward a roost or roosts in the Morro Bay area. Starting last week, flocks of 50 to 150 stop in a grove of trees near my house for about 20 minutes. They fuss and vocalize, then leave over a 5 minute period in groups of about 100.The general nightly movement toward roosts I understand. My question is, do they normally have stops like what I have described along the route? I always assumed that it was a direct flight.
Alan Schmierer
Canet Road, SLO
PHOTOS AT:https://www.flickr.com/photos/sloalan
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Swainson's Thrush (Olive-backed) (Catharus ustulatus [swainsoni Group]) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 07:00 by Kevin Zimmer
- KJZ yard, Garcia Rd, Atascadero, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.7064838&<ll...>,-120.7064838 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395030327 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "This was one of the olive-backed subspecies of Swainson's Thrush, as judged by the "cold", uniformly grayish-olive upperparts (including the tail); buffy eyering and supraloral; pale, grayish-brown wash to the flanks; boldly, blackish spotted breast; and with a decidedly buffy ground-color to the malar/moustachial region. Much "colder" more grayish-olive dorsal coloration than in any of the West Coast breeding subspecies of the ustulatus-group, and with bolder, darker breast spotting than any of the expected breeding or migratory Swainson's. The only warmer brown color on this bird was in the greater primary and secondary coverts. My best guess would be that this bird would be referable to the Alaskan breeding subspecies incanus, as opposed to more eastern breeding swainsoni, although incanus more often has a slight rufous cast to the dorsal surface of the tail, which this bird showed no indication of. This is only the 3rd or 4th time that I've recorded one of these olive-backed Swainson's Thrushes in my yard (or the county) in 40 years of living here. All of my previous records were also in Sept-Oct."
Northern Waterthrush (Parkesia noveboracensis) (1)
- Reported Sep 21, 2026 09:13 by Bob McCay
- Hardie Park/Cayucos Creek (Ocean Ave Bridge to Hwy 1 Bridge), Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9062489&<ll...>,-120.9062489 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394995004 - Comments: "Brown back with brown and faintly yellowish stripes beneath. Prominent white eyebrow. Bobbing along the creek about 150â seaward of the 101 bridge on the south side. It hung out well within the willow branches so no pic."
Northern Waterthrush (Parkesia noveboracensis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 10:30 by Petra Clayton
- Hardie Park/Cayucos Creek (Ocean Ave Bridge to Hwy 1 Bridge), Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9062489&<ll...>,-120.9062489 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394825716 - Media: 1 Video, 7 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing since 9/18/26.
Chocolate-brown crown, nape, back, wings (no wingbars) and tail; broad cream-colored supercilium and throat; thin dark malar stripe; cream-colored breast with long, broad dark stripes; cream-colored belly with dark markings; cream-colored undertail; dark stripes running the whole length of the cream-colored flanks; dusky pink legs; slender dark bill; dark eye. --- Frequently bobbing its tails and flipping leaf litter as it foraged in the creek bed, occasionally in the company of a Red-breasted Nuthatch, west of the Highway One bridge at the end of the creek."
American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 21, 2026 12:16 by Barry Langdon-Lassagne
- Hardie Park/Cayucos Creek (Ocean Ave Bridge to Hwy 1 Bridge), Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9062489&<ll...>,-120.9062489 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395038500 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Overall drab warbler, with striking yellow tail-windows. Lots of tail-wagging & fan display. Photos."
American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 21, 2026 12:16 by Virginia Langdon-Lassagne
- Hardie Park/Cayucos Creek (Ocean Ave Bridge to Hwy 1 Bridge), Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9062489&<ll...>,-120.9062489 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S395038497 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Overall drab warbler, with striking yellow tail-windows. Lots of tail-wagging & fan display. Photos."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/21/26 9:30 am From: William M Killian via groups.io <wkillian6163...> Subject: [slocobirding] Northern flicker at MdO: what flavor?
Riding mountain bikes at MdO recently there was an explosion from the brush, and all I saw was whitethe white rump of a Northern flicker moving quickly away from us. Red-shafted, yellow-shafted, I couldn't say. Anyone?
Date: 9/21/26 9:22 am From: njmann90 via groups.io <njmann50...> Subject: [slocobirding] Red breasted Nuthatch
Red-breasted Nuthatch is in the yard this a.m. near the SLO Vet's Hall
NJM
--
Nancy Jean Mann (It/It's)
San Luis Obispo
âI wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But
that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with
the time that is given us.â
â J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ringâ¦
See more
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Costa's Hummingbird (Calypte costae) (1)
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 16:15 by Hunter Burggraf
- Home, Paso Robles, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.673731&<ll...>,-120.673731 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394786982 - Comments: "Noticeably different vocalization and shorter tailed than Annaâs Hummingbird. Picked up on Merlin Sound ID for a few days in a row. Finally saw a few glints of purple in the throat. Either female or immature male."
Ridgway's Rail (Rallus obsoletus) (1)
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 09:00 by Tom Slater
- Prefumo creek mouth, Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6927912&<ll...>,-120.6927912 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394713510 - Comments: "Large, longish looking rail. Cinnamon brown cheek, neck and breast. Orange and black long bill. Dark legs. Flanks were barred but not super contrasty like on a virginias rail. Body had a more uniformly brownish feel. No obvious gray cheek like on a Virginias.
Emerged from reeds on left, walked across the mud bar, paused at waterâs edge, then hustled across water into reeds on the left. Encounter lasted 30 seconds. Great look."
Least Storm-Petrel (Hydrobates microsoma) (1)
- Reported Sep 19, 2026 09:15 by Bird Idiot
- Least Storm P, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.8600942&<ll...>,-121.8600942 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394695634 - Comments: "Seen with one other observer along side a black storm petrel. Tiny by comparison. All dark with what looked like a closed tail. Very weaving flight ..flickering... rdpecially vompared to the black that seemed smoother and more powerful."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (3)
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 11:06 by Barry Langdon-Lassagne
- Clarkâs Nutcracker Stakeout, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.601993&<ll...>,-120.601993 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394714094 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Large pale gray corvid with black with sand white wingpatches. Unmistakeableâ so close we were able to take iPhone Photos!! Very un-shy. Mostly silent."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (3)
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 11:01 by Virginia Langdon-Lassagne
- Clarkâs Nutcracker Stakeout, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.601993&<ll...>,-120.601993 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394714093 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Large pale gray corvid with black and white wing patches. Unmistakeableâ so close we were able to take iPhone Photos!! Very un-shy. Mostly silent."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (3)
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 09:11 by James Hinshaw-Zingo
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394744276 - Media: 2 Videos, 3 Photos
- Comments: "Unmistakable. One was on the ground picking nuts out of pinecones. About 4 miles straight up the trail. Very very tame. You can be feet away from it and it does not care, as long as you donât walk directly towards it."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1)
- Reported Sep 19, 2026 10:15 by Luke Jensen
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394425899 - Comments: "*Very rare, seen in same location KH and crew saw it flyover this mourning at 2.8 miles up the trail in dense pine habitat, We put a line of pine cones across the road as a marker for the location. Overall somewhat large gray bird with a thick bill and white and black underwings. Seen extremely close pounding on log pounding on something. Thank you Dave for calling us so we could see it. Pics to TBA in the future."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (2)
- Reported Sep 19, 2026 06:44 by Kilian Hampl
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394379048 - Comments: "**Very rare. We first heard a bird call once at 8:08 am from up the hill here: (35.333952, -120.609594). Call a very distinct loud grating âkraakâ. A little while later and farther up the road/trail (2.81 mi, 35.329991, -120.608785) at 8:36 we had another bird fly directly over us going up over the hill to the northeast. It reappeared not long after and flew by us again to the southeast where it flew back into the pines and landed somewhere out of sight and did not reappear again. This individual did not vocalize. This was an obvious corvid similar in size to a Scrub-Jay, and it exhibited a long, dark, dagger-shaped bill, dark eye, pale whitish gray head, neck, back, breast, and belly. The wings were almost completely black and contrasted with the pale grayish head and back. In flight we were able to see that the tail was relatively short and that the central rectricies were glossy black and contrasted starkly with the bright white outer tail feathers. Similarly, the secondaries had a distinct white trailing edge. The legs and feet were not seen well, but they appeared to be dark. The flight was direct and crow-like with floppy wingbeats. Overall our views of this bird were good, albeit brief, and we were able to see most of this bird well. Unfortunately due to the brevity of the observation we were unable to get photos."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (2)
- Reported Sep 19, 2026 06:44 by The Spotting Twohees
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394379265 - Comments: "**Very rare. We first heard a bird call once at 8:08 am from up the hill here: (35.333952, -120.609594). Call a very distinct loud grating âkraakâ. A little while later and farther up the road/trail (2.81 mi, 35.329991, -120.608785) at 8:36 we had another bird fly directly over us going up over the hill to the northeast. It reappeared not long after and flew by us again to the southeast where it flew back into the pines and landed somewhere out of sight and did not reappear again. This individual did not vocalize. This was an obvious corvid similar in size to a Scrub-Jay, and it exhibited a long, dark, dagger-shaped bill, dark eye, pale whitish gray head, neck, back, breast, and belly. The wings were almost completely black and contrasted with the pale grayish head and back. In flight we were able to see that the tail was relatively short and that the central rectricies were glossy black and contrasted starkly with the bright white outer tail feathers. Similarly, the secondaries had a distinct white trailing edge. The legs and feet were not seen well, but they appeared to be dark. The flight was direct and crow-like with floppy wingbeats. Overall our views of this bird were good, albeit brief, and we were able to see most of this bird well. Unfortunately due to the brevity of the observation we were unable to get photos."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (2)
- Reported Sep 19, 2026 06:44 by Herb Elliott
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394380294 - Comments: "**Very rare. We first heard a bird call once at 8:08 am from up the hill here: (35.333952, -120.609594). Call a very distinct loud grating âkraakâ. A little while later and farther up the road/trail (2.81 mi, 35.329991, -120.608785) at 8:36 we had another bird fly directly over us going up over the hill to the northeast. It reappeared not long after and flew by us again to the southeast where it flew back into the pines and landed somewhere out of sight and did not reappear again. This individual did not vocalize. This was an obvious corvid similar in size to a Scrub-Jay, and it exhibited a long, dark, dagger-shaped bill, dark eye, pale whitish gray head, neck, back, breast, and belly. The wings were almost completely black and contrasted with the pale grayish head and back. In flight we were able to see that the tail was relatively short and that the central rectricies were glossy black and contrasted starkly with the bright white outer tail feathers. Similarly, the secondaries had a distinct white trailing edge. The legs and feet were not seen well, but they appeared to be dark. The flight was direct and crow-like with floppy wingbeats. Overall our views of this bird were good, albeit brief, and we were able to see most of this bird well. Unfortunately due to the brevity of the observation we were unable to get photos."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 18, 2026 07:50 by Kevin Zimmer
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.63186&<ll...>,-120.63186 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394376978 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "A chunky, relatively short-tailed, mostly pale gray corvid with contrasting black wings, black-and-white tail (black central rectrices, white outer rectrices), conspicuous white crissum and white patches in the secondaries (visible in flight), and stout, pointed, mostly straight, black bill. First seen when it flew in and landed on the ground on the side of the road, where it remained for only a second, before flying up and landing in the top of a small pine, right above our heads. It remained on this perch, looking around, for perhaps 10 minutes, then flew to another pine a few trees over, sat there for another minute or two, and then flew off out of sight without uttering a sound. I did not lug my camera gear up the mountain, so had to settle for crummy, cell phone photos and videos, even though the photographic opportunities were superb. Poor ID photos to be attached."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1)
- Reported Sep 18, 2026 14:43 by Tom Schilling
- Mount Lowe Rd, San Luis Obispo US-CA (35.3300,-120.6088), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.608766&<ll...>,-120.608766 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394777361 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Scrub-jay sized light gray bird with black wings, white undertail coverts, large lightly curved black bill and black eyes. Face lacked the usual white hue. Seen foraging on the ground upon fallen pinecones. Very friendly, popped out of the trees onto the trail right in front of us multiple times. Not likely to be the same individuals as reported by others this morning, as it was a mile or so back on the road. Photos tba."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1)
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 13:03 by Barry Langdon-Lassagne
- Mt. Lowe Rd -Lopez Mt NW, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.623493&<ll...>,-120.623493 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394777551 - Comments: "As we hoped, when looking in the area where we had our "Mystery Bird" earlier, we were able to re-find the same top-view of the direct-flighted, pale-bodied, dark-winged bird. Much better look than on our hike uphillâ it landed and we got photos."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1)
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 13:03 by Virginia Langdon-Lassagne
- Mt. Lowe Rd -Lopez Mt NW, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.623493&<ll...>,-120.623493 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394733092 - Comments: "As we hoped, when looking in the area where we had our "Mystery Bird" earlier, we were able to re-find the same top-view of the direct-flighted, pale-bodied, dark-winged bird. Much better look than on our hike uphillâ it landed and we got photos."
Yellow-breasted Chat (Icteria virens) (1)
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 10:33 by Michael Moss
- Hardie Park/Cayucos Creek (Ocean Ave Bridge to Hwy 1 Bridge), Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9062489&<ll...>,-120.9062489 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394731548 - Comments: "Came from down Creek landed in front of me went into the bushes then up into the Willows where it was feeding pretty sure based off the characteristic that this is the same bird that Reef Comer observed on September 17 probably a first year bright yellow throat and breast, white belly, dark you lores, white spectacles, olive on back, heavy beak was a silent skulky bird for the most part didnât really come out in the open, except when I first observed it"
Northern Waterthrush (Parkesia noveboracensis) (1)
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 11:07 by Tom Edell
- Hardie Park/Cayucos Creek (Ocean Ave Bridge to Hwy 1 Bridge), Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9062489&<ll...>,-120.9062489 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394750027 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Calling bird found here yesterday. Heavily streaked below though not on chin. Long, cream colored supercilium. Foraging along creek edge."
Northern Waterthrush (Parkesia noveboracensis) (1)
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 10:33 by Michael Moss
- Hardie Park/Cayucos Creek (Ocean Ave Bridge to Hwy 1 Bridge), Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9062489&<ll...>,-120.9062489 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394731548 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing found by Petra yesterday, observed along banks of stream just west of Highway one bridge forging along the shoreline bobbing its tail, brown crown nape and wings, and tail, cream colored breast belly and undertail interrupted by dark stripes, running the length from chin to flanks, and of course a cream colored supercilium pics tba"
Northern Waterthrush (Parkesia noveboracensis) (1)
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 09:15 by Kevin Garcia
- Hardie Park/Cayucos Creek (Ocean Ave Bridge to Hwy 1 Bridge), Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9062489&<ll...>,-120.9062489 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394681787 - Media: 1 Video
- Comments: "Seen foraging and dipping at the edge of the creek where it was last detected by Petra Clayton on 9-18. Easier to spot from the dry end of the creek under Highway 1. Big thank you to the savvy group of birders for showing me the less oaky trail to get clearer look at this cool bird. Short clip to be added."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (5)
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 07:06 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394749392 - Media: 1 Audio
- Comments: "*Expected subspecies/phenotype. Two birds near the parking lot here: (35.108062, -120.627752) and singles at the Native Garden, Peninsula, and Norswing Drive trail just south of the main entrance. All very dull olive OCWAs with large bills, greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, large-headed, faint hooded, and slight vested appearance, streaked breast, and extensive dusky olive-streaked undertail. Several birds heard giving thick metallic chip calls. Photos (eventually) and audio tba."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (5)
- Reported Sep 17, 2026 07:04 by Ann Stockert
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394421434 - Comments: "*Expected. Three in the native garden, one on the peninsula, and one on the Norswing Drive trail north of the main entrance. All very dull olive OCWAs with large bills, greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, large-headed and slight hooded appearance, streaked breast, faint vested appearance, and extensive dusky olive-streaked undertail coverts. Several heard giving the distinctly thick metallic chip call of this subspecies/type. Photos of a few tba at some point."
Blackpoll Warbler (Setophaga striata) (1)
- Reported Sep 20, 2026 07:06 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394749392 - Comments: "*Rare but regular. One bird by itself on the west side of the maintenance road. Large warbler with small thin bill, dark eye, slightly paler eye arcs, mostly dull olive-yellow head, back, and breast, the latter two of which were diffusely streaked and streaking on breast continued down onto flanks, bright white double wingbars, largely dark wing coverts and tail with olive and pale edges, dull whitish belly and undertail, largely dark legs, and dull orange feet. Silent to the best of my knowledge. Poor but identifiable photos tba at some point."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/20/26 11:16 am From: Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1...> Subject: [slocobirding] Small mid-morning flurry, Morro Bay
A busy 20 minutes in our yard in Morro Bay this morning! 2 Red-breasted Nuthatches stopped to take a quick bath, a Golden-crowned Sparrow made it's FOS appearance, a bright Yellow-warbler and 2 Orange-crowned Warblers were seen, one of the two was a gray-headed ssp. Other more common species were also present including more White-crowns than recently observed.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) (1)
- Reported Sep 18, 2026 19:01 by Kilian Hampl
- 410 Pecan St, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.596334&<ll...>,-120.596334 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394082589 - Comments: "*Continuing HY male at feeders (see yesterdayâs list). Small pale hummer with long bill, white breast, narrower inner primaries, broad rounded p10, squeaky calls, etc. Some purple gorget feathers starting to grow in on throat. Photos tba at some point."
Murphy's Petrel (Pterodroma ultima) (1)
- Reported Sep 19, 2026 06:43 by Leisyka Parrott
- North Pacific Ocean (35.2737,-122.1285), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-122.128488&<ll...>,-122.128488 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394242018 - Comments: "I was counting SOSH in the scope as I was panning left and came across an all dark bird of similar size and distance that had no underwing flash. I stayed with it for about 45 seconds noting the dark upper and underwings. It was mostly gliding on crooked wings, but the flap was quick and snappy, faster than a PFSH/FFSH. Did not really consider FFSH, just not dark chocolate brown enough and flap was faster."
Murphy's Petrel (Pterodroma ultima) (1)
- Reported Sep 19, 2026 06:43 by Russ Namitz
- North Pacific Ocean (35.2737,-122.1285), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-122.128488&<ll...>,-122.128488 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394242016 - Comments: "I was counting SOSH in the scope as I was panning left and came across an all dark bird of similar size and distance that had no underwing flash. I stayed with it for about 45 seconds noting the dark upper and underwings. It was mostly gliding on crooked wings, but the flap was quick and snappy, faster than a PFSH/FFSH. Did not really consider FFSH, just not dark chocolate brown enough and flap was faster. I have seen dozens of these on spring repo cruises and in Hawaii and have a good sense of flight style & gestalt."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (3) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 18, 2026 15:30 by Tom Slater
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394090000 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "At 3 miles up from the parking area I found 1 feeding on the ground. I watched it for 45 minutes, fishing out pine nuts and other things. Using it's large black bill to hammer away. Black wings, gray body, heavy black bill, white undertail, white tail when in flight.
I rode up to the Black Butte Repeater and on the way down, I saw two more flying through the pines behind a 20' pine snag right next to the road (with cavities in it... woodpeckers?). So I saw a total of 3 birds."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 18, 2026 06:44 by Jay Carroll
- East Cuesta Ridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6290937&<ll...>,-120.6290937 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394047744 - Comments: "Perched on pine and then flying NE into moderate breeze; 0732 at 35.33400, -120.60960 (elev. 2,097 ft). A distinctive gray corvid with black wings, mostly white tail, and large pointed black bill observed briefly through bins at about 100 m distant. When it flew, the contrasting gray, black, and white plumage pattern was very obvious. Compared to a co-occurring Band-tailed Pigeon with which it may have initially been confused, the Nutcracker had a stronger direct flight with slower wing beats, an unbanded tail, larger head, thicker neck, and longer black bill. No vocalizations were heard and no photos were taken."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1)
- Reported Sep 18, 2026 14:43 by Kyle Rundel ð¦ââ¬
- Mount Lowe Rd, San Luis Obispo US-CA (35.3300,-120.6088), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.608766&<ll...>,-120.608766 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394060210 - Comments: "Scrub-jay sized light gray bird with black wings, white undertail coverts, large lightly curved black bill and black eyes. Face lacked the usual white hue. Seen foraging on the ground upon fallen pinecones. Very friendly, popped out of the trees onto the trail right in front of us multiple times. Not likely to be the same individuals as reported by others this morning, as it was a mile or so back on the road. Photos tba."
Clark's Nutcracker (Nucifraga columbiana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 18, 2026 10:47 by Jay Carroll
- Mount Lowe Rd, San Luis Obispo US-CA 35.31627, -120.60176, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.60176&<ll...>,-120.60176 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394058497 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Most likely a different individual than the one seen over three hours earlier in a different location on the same road. It was first observed methodically foraging on the ground under overhanging pine boughs along the dirt road, presumably for seeds. Distinctively plumaged gray corvid with black wings, white tail, and large black bill. It flushed when it was disturbed by some passing cyclists, but returned to the same location about 10 minutes later. Photos."
Northern Waterthrush (Parkesia noveboracensis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 18, 2026 10:40 by Petra Clayton
- Hardie Park/Cayucos Creek (Ocean Ave Bridge to Hwy 1 Bridge), Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9062489&<ll...>,-120.9062489 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S394035601 - Media: 1 Video, 8 Photos
- Comments: "Most recent eBird report of this species at this eBird hotspot: 9/6/2025.
Chocolate-brown crown, nape, back, wings (no wingbars) and tail; broad cream-colored supercilium and throat; thin dark malar stripe; cream-colored breast, belly and undertail; broad dark stripes running the whole length of the cream-colored flanks; dusky pink legs; slender dark bill; dark eye. --- Observed foraging in the creek bed west of the Highway One bridge at the end of the creek. Even when not seen clearly in the underbrush, the constant tail bobbing was most noticeable."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/19/26 10:33 am From: Jim Royer via groups.io <jrmotmot...> Subject: [slocobirding] 9/27 Morro Bay Pelagic Bird Trip
There are still spots on the Morro Bay Pelagic Trip, Sunday, September 27, 7:30-3:30. Local expert Kevin Zimmer is the leader and there will be chumming. For more information go to https://morrobaywhalewatching.com/pelagic-excursions. This company recently spotted a Cocos Booby on a whale watch trip.
Date: 9/18/26 10:03 pm From: Thomas Slater via groups.io <tomslaterphotography...> Subject: [slocobirding] Clark's Nutcrackers
I was originally going to ride my mtn bike at the Pismo Preserve, but they have more hikers than nutcrackers so I headed up to East Cuesta Ridge after Jay Carroll posted about some nutcrackers. I passed a hiker birder who said go up 3.9 miles. Then two mtn biker birders said they found one lower down (about 3 miles up) so I stopped there. For the first 15 minutes... nada. I got ready to move on. Then I heard two short calls and decided to stick around. Then 5 minutes later one Clark's Nutcracker showed up on the road south of me. It started about 50 yards away and worked its way to within 20' of me. After some dodgy phone photos I decided to finish the ride and go up to the Black Butte Repeater. On the ride back down I saw two more Clark's Nutcrackers near a 20' dead snag just off the road. So I know there were at least 3 up along the east ridge, but there were probably more. No Pinyon Jays. Just one Jay Carrol. Thanks Jay.
Clark's Nutcracker #398 county
Tom Slater
Slater Photography
(805)-441-6945
@surfinslater on Instagram
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 17, 2026 18:28 by Kilian Hampl
- 410 Pecan St, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.596334&<ll...>,-120.596334 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S393804804 - Comments: "*Late. New female at the feeder, this one with some stuck sap/jelly on her face. Small pale hummingbird with relatively long, slightly curved bill, pale throat, pale underparts, etc. Notably smaller and structurally distinct compared to the ANHUs at the feeder and in vicinity. Gave a few higher-pitched squeaky chips when flying off. Unfortunately was quickly chased off by an ANHU when I came back with my camera for pics."
Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) (1)
- Reported Sep 17, 2026 10:44 by Reef Comer
- Hardie Park/Cayucos Creek (Ocean Ave Bridge to Hwy 1 Bridge), Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9062489&<ll...>,-120.9062489 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S393768635 - Comments: "Prolonged views of perched bird. Probable HY bird. Fairly elongated, long-billed hummer with pale whitish throat and underside."
Yellow-breasted Chat (Icteria virens) (1)
- Reported Sep 17, 2026 10:44 by Reef Comer
- Hardie Park/Cayucos Creek (Ocean Ave Bridge to Hwy 1 Bridge), Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9062489&<ll...>,-120.9062489 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S393768635 - Comments: "Seen well in willows at waterthrush spot almost directly under bridge before flying down creek. Brownish olive above, bright yellow throat and breast, white belly, longish tail, dark lores, white spectacles, and heavy bill. Looked to be a 1st year bird with dark gray cheek and weak white malar. Silent. Think this may be only my second fall sighting ever of this species!"
Yellow-rumped Warbler (Setophaga coronata) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 17, 2026 12:18 by Herb Elliott
- Hi Mountain--(Lookout, Hi Mtn. Rd., Hi Valley and Huff's Hole), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4250479&<ll...>,-120.4250479 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S393776995 - Comments: "Yellow-rumped Warbler with white throat, contrasting gray cheek, blue-gray back with black streaks, streaked breast, yellow crown. Called several times - flat "chek.""
Yellow-rumped Warbler (Setophaga coronata) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 17, 2026 12:18 by Kevin Zimmer
- Hi Mountain--(Lookout, Hi Mtn. Rd., Hi Valley and Huff's Hole), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4250479&<ll...>,-120.4250479 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S393808995 - Comments: "Yellow-rumped Warbler with white throat, contrasting gray cheek, blue-gray back with black streaks, streaked breast, yellow crown. Called several times - flat "chek.""
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/18/26 11:43 am From: njmann90 via groups.io <njmann50...> Subject: [slocobirding] oceano Hermit Warblers
Very birdy at Oceano Lagoon today. Hermit Warbles and Red breasted
Nuthatches scattered about the campground areas near the lagoon.
MBondello and NJ Mann
--
Nancy Jean Mann (It/It's)
San Luis Obispo
âI wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But
that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with
the time that is given us.â
â J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ringâ¦
See more
Date: 9/17/26 5:03 pm From: Claudia Freitas via groups.io <cfreitas365...> Subject: [slocobirding] Young Western Bluebirds
Iâve been seeing quite a few bathing in my two fountains. They barely show
any blue except for a bit on the tail and still have a spot or two on the
breast. Parents enjoy the fountains also.
FOS Orange-crowned in the yard today. Near SLO Vet's Hall.
--
Nancy Jean Mann
San Luis Obispo
âI wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But
that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with
the time that is given us.â
â J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ringâ¦
See more
Date: 9/17/26 2:17 pm From: njmann90 via groups.io <njmann50...> Subject: [slocobirding] White tailed Kite
Adult White tailed Kite hovering over open space NW corner of Los Osos
Valley Rd and Foothill, SLO, on 16 Sept 2026.
NJ Mann and MC Bondello
--
Nancy Jean Mann (It/It's)
San Luis Obispo
âI wish it need not have happened in my time," said Frodo.
"So do I," said Gandalf, "and so do all who live to see such times. But
that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with
the time that is given us.â
â J.R.R. Tolkien, The Fellowship of the Ringâ¦
See more
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Northern Waterthrush (Parkesia noveboracensis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 16, 2026 07:00 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S393531118 - Media: 1 Audio
- Comments: "*Continuing. I was able to locate this bird rather easily on the maintenance road (35.111869, -120.626950) today as it frequently gave the distinct loud metallic âchinkâ calls of this species. It was much closer to the road today than the last time I had it here and I was able to eventually locate it down low in the willow understory as it moved between branches. This was a large plump warbler that was mostly a dark olive-brown color on the back, wings, rump, and short tail. The bill was short, thin, and dark and the eye was dark as well. It had a well defined pale buff supercillium that extended far beyond the eye and contrasted sharply with the olive-brown cap and postocular stripe and lores. Much of the throat, face, and underparts were all a similar buffy pale color but were strongly and extensively streaked olive-brown. My view of the legs and feet was brief and suggested that they were dull, but I was not sure whether they were dull flesh-colored or brighter pinkish. I was able to see however that this individual pumped and bobbed its lower body incessantly, similar to the foraging behavior of, say, Solitary Sandpiper. Overall my views of this bird were mediocre, brief, and mostly obscured as it was shy and stayed down low and deep in the willows. They were, however, at a reasonably close distance. I was not able to get photos of this bird unfortunately, but I got a recording which will be added."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (5)
- Reported Sep 17, 2026 07:04 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S393725715 - Comments: "*Expected. Three in the native garden, one on the peninsula, and one on the Norswing Drive trail north of the main entrance. All very dull olive OCWAs with large bills, greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, large-headed and slight hooded appearance, streaked breast, faint vested appearance, and extensive dusky olive-streaked undertail coverts. Several heard giving the distinctly thick metallic chip call of this subspecies/type. Photos of a few tba at some point."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (5)
- Reported Sep 16, 2026 07:00 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S393531118 - Comments: "*Expected. About three (perhaps between three to five?) ranging widely in the vicinity of the peninsula and the native garden and two more at the Redstart nesting location along the Norswing drive trail. Very dull OCWAs with large lengthy bills, greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, a large-headed and faint-hooded appearance, streaky breast, a faint vested appearance, and extensively dusky olive streaked undertail coverts. At least two or maybe even three heard giving the thick metallic chip calls typical of this subspecies/type. Photos of several tba at some point."
American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla) (1)
- Reported Sep 16, 2026 07:00 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S393531118 - Comments: "*Rare but regular. HY male first found by Mitch Siemens on the maintenance road. Warbler with a pale throat and underparts except for yellow/orange patches on the sides of the breast, dull greenish back, dark legs and feet, no wingbars, yellow base to wing coverts, and yellow base to outer rectricies. Dark lores, more orangey-yellow breast patches, and what appeared to be darker uppertail coverts indicates HY male over female. Fanning tail frequently. May have heard this bird giving a few high-pitched âtinkâ calls, but not sure. Photos tba at some point."
***********
You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Costa's Hummingbird (Calypte costae) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Herb Elliott
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S393270328 - Comments: "*Late. One HY male initially heard in the bottlebrush near the âCasa Diabloâ (?) yard giving the high pitched twittering calls of this species, somewhat reminiscent of a BUSH. Eventually located in there where the medium length slightly curved bill, pale postocular stripe extending down and connecting to the pale collar, vest, smaller overall size, and tubby structure were apparent. A few purple feathers starting to come in on throat. Zooming around and vocalizing frequently as it chased (or was chased off) by other hummers and we tried for photos but were unsuccessful."
Orange-crowned Warbler (Gray-headed) (Leiothlypis celata celata/orestera) (1)
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Herb Elliott
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S393270328 - Comments: "*Seems more or less on time. One rather dull bird (tending more towards celata, but still ambiguous) with the flock near the âCasa Diabloâ (?) yard. Dull OCWA with contrasting grayish head, small bill, evenly bright white eye arcs, streaked breast, dull greenish below contrasting somewhat weakly with gray head, and very weakly and incompletely streaked undertail coverts, typical of many âgray-headedâ. Silent to the best of my knowledge. Photos tba at some point."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1)
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Herb Elliott
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S393270328 - Comments: "*Expected, though scarcer in north county. One bird seen briefly but reasonably well high up with flock near the âCasa Diabloâ (?) yard. Dull olive OCWA with large bill, very streaky breast, faint vested appearance, and extensively olive-streaked undertail coverts. Silent. Ultimately not able to get photos as it stayed high in the oaks and was very active not sitting still for long."
Orange-crowned Warbler (celata) (Leiothlypis celata celata) (2)
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Herb Elliott
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S393270328 - Comments: "*Rare but regular, relatively early. Two birds identifiable to nominate together in the large flock near the âCasa Diabloâ yard (?). One bird very drab, essentially entirely gray, with a small bill, streaked breast, evenly bright white eye arcs, and unmarked undertail coverts. Second bird similar but with a very faint yellow/greenish wash to uppermost upper breast and undertail coverts, still being almost completely pale grayish below. One bird (drabber individual) heard giving sharp high-pitched chip calls higher than the average âchipâ calls of lutescens. Both birds seen well albeit high up in the canopy, got some poor pics of at least one individual that will be added at some point."
***********
You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/15/26 3:50 pm From: Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1...> Subject: [slocobirding] Red-breasted Nuthatch
A perky little Red-breasted Nuthatch stopped by our fountain this afternoon. While historically considered regular in the county in Sept. it has been over 2 years since I have reported one visiting our yard. Reading recently about the large number of Clark's Nutcrackers passing through at higher elevations nearby maybe this will turn out be a good year for more wintering montane species in SLO. ð¤
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 09, 2026 12:40 by Todd McGrath
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392869142 - Comments: "We eventually located the continuing eider sitting on the second row of floats for the closer oyster farm, where it remained for the rest of our visit. The distance was moderate and the bird was sitting, but with its head up.
This was a large, rather stocky duck with a plump body, a short neck, and a large head with a sloping forehead, a gently rounded crown, and a blocky appearance, along with a stubby bill. The overall coloration was a rich buff to a warm, sandy-brown with a diffuse eyering and a somewhat uneven appearance to the plumage, but it was difficult to see much more detail given the conditions. I thought both the bill and eyes were dark, but I could not discern more detail than this."
Costa's Hummingbird (Calypte costae) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Kilian Hampl
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392978344 - Comments: "*Late. One HY male initially heard in the bottlebrush near the âCasa Diabloâ (?) yard giving the high pitched twittering calls of this species, somewhat reminiscent of a BUSH. Eventually located in there where the medium length slightly curved bill, pale postocular stripe extending down and connecting to the pale collar, vest, smaller overall size, and tubby structure were apparent. A few purple feathers starting to come in on throat. Zooming around and vocalizing frequently as it chased (or was chased off) by other hummers and we tried for photos but were unsuccessful."
Costa's Hummingbird (Calypte costae) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Ann Stockert
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392986619 - Comments: "*Late. One HY male initially heard in the bottlebrush near the âCasa Diabloâ (?) yard giving the high pitched twittering calls of this species, somewhat reminiscent of a BUSH. Eventually located in there where the medium length slightly curved bill, pale postocular stripe extending down and connecting to the pale collar, vest, smaller overall size, and tubby structure were apparent. A few purple feathers starting to come in on throat. Zooming around and vocalizing frequently as it chased (or was chased off) by other hummers and we tried for photos but were unsuccessful."
Costa's Hummingbird (Calypte costae) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Roger Hammer
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392983274 - Comments: "*Late. One HY male initially heard in the bottlebrush near the âCasa Diabloâ (?) yard giving the high pitched twittering calls of this species, somewhat reminiscent of a BUSH. Eventually located in there where the medium length slightly curved bill, pale postocular stripe extending down and connecting to the pale collar, vest, smaller overall size, and tubby structure were apparent. A few purple feathers starting to come in on throat. Zooming around and vocalizing frequently as it chased (or was chased off) by other hummers and we tried for photos but were unsuccessful."
Common Gallinule (Gallinula galeata) (1)
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 12:05 by Petra Clayton
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S393002999 - Media: 1 Video, 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing immature since 8/19/26 (Jay Carroll). ---Brown mantle; brownish crown and neck; pale chin and throat; gray underparts; short tail with white edges; white-edged flanks; dark shield; dark bill with yellow tip; dark eye; greenish legs."
Pinyon Jay (Gymnorhinus cyanocephalus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 14:57 by Russ Namitz
- Caliente Ridge Trail-PIJA 2016, Santa Margarita US-CA 35.08383, -119.80644, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.806444&<ll...>,-119.806444 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392983585 - Media: 2 Videos, 2 Photos, 2 Audio
- Comments: "Solid blue Jay flushed from the ground. Walked back to get media validation. Loosely associated with scrub jays, but foraging alone, mostly on the ground. Crappy cell phone documentation."
Orange-crowned Warbler (Gray-headed) (Leiothlypis celata celata/orestera) (1)
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Ann Stockert
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392986619 - Comments: "*Seems more or less on time. One rather dull bird (tending more towards celata, but still ambiguous) with the flock near the âCasa Diabloâ (?) yard. Dull OCWA with contrasting grayish head, small bill, evenly bright white eye arcs, streaked breast, dull greenish below contrasting somewhat weakly with gray head, and very weakly and incompletely streaked undertail coverts, typical of many âgray-headedâ. Silent to the best of my knowledge. Photos tba at some point."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1)
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Ann Stockert
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392986619 - Comments: "*Expected, though scarcer in north county. One bird seen briefly but reasonably well high up with flock near the âCasa Diabloâ (?) yard. Dull olive OCWA with large bill, very streaky breast, faint vested appearance, and extensively olive-streaked undertail coverts. Silent. Ultimately not able to get photos as it stayed high in the oaks and was very active not sitting still for long."
Orange-crowned Warbler (celata) (Leiothlypis celata celata) (2)
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Ann Stockert
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392986619 - Comments: "*Rare but regular, relatively early. Two birds identifiable to nominate together in the large flock near the âCasa Diabloâ yard (?). One bird very drab, essentially entirely gray, with a small bill, streaked breast, evenly bright white eye arcs, and unmarked undertail coverts. Second bird similar but with a very faint yellow/greenish wash to uppermost upper breast and undertail coverts, still being almost completely pale grayish below. One bird (drabber individual) heard giving sharp high-pitched chip calls higher than the average âchipâ calls of lutescens. Both birds seen well albeit high up in the canopy, got some poor pics of at least one individual that will be added at some point."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1)
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Kilian Hampl
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392978344 - Comments: "*Expected, though scarcer in north county. One bird seen briefly but reasonably well high up with flock near the âCasa Diabloâ (?) yard. Dull olive OCWA with large bill, very streaky breast, faint vested appearance, and extensively olive-streaked undertail coverts. Silent. Ultimately not able to get photos as it stayed high in the oaks and was very active not sitting still for long."
Orange-crowned Warbler (Gray-headed) (Leiothlypis celata celata/orestera) (1)
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Kilian Hampl
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392978344 - Comments: "*Seems more or less on time. One rather dull bird (tending more towards celata, but still ambiguous) with the flock near the âCasa Diabloâ (?) yard. Dull OCWA with contrasting grayish head, small bill, evenly bright white eye arcs, streaked breast, dull greenish below contrasting somewhat weakly with gray head, and very weakly and incompletely streaked undertail coverts, typical of many âgray-headedâ. Silent to the best of my knowledge. Photos tba at some point."
Orange-crowned Warbler (celata) (Leiothlypis celata celata) (2)
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Kilian Hampl
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392978344 - Comments: "*Rare but regular, relatively early. Two birds identifiable to nominate together in the large flock near the âCasa Diabloâ yard (?). One bird very drab, essentially entirely gray, with a small bill, streaked breast, evenly bright white eye arcs, and unmarked undertail coverts. Second bird similar but with a very faint yellow/greenish wash to uppermost upper breast and undertail coverts, still being almost completely pale grayish below. One bird (drabber individual) heard giving sharp high-pitched chip calls higher than the average âchipâ calls of lutescens. Both birds seen well albeit high up in the canopy, got some poor pics of at least one individual that will be added at some point."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1)
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Roger Hammer
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392983274 - Comments: "*Expected, though scarcer in north county. One bird seen briefly but reasonably well high up with flock near the âCasa Diabloâ (?) yard. Dull olive OCWA with large bill, very streaky breast, faint vested appearance, and extensively olive-streaked undertail coverts. Silent. Ultimately not able to get photos as it stayed high in the oaks and was very active not sitting still for long."
Orange-crowned Warbler (celata) (Leiothlypis celata celata) (2)
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Roger Hammer
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392983274 - Comments: "*Rare but regular, relatively early. Two birds identifiable to nominate together in the large flock near the âCasa Diabloâ yard (?). One bird very drab, essentially entirely gray, with a small bill, streaked breast, evenly bright white eye arcs, and unmarked undertail coverts. Second bird similar but with a very faint yellow/greenish wash to uppermost upper breast and undertail coverts, still being almost completely pale grayish below. One bird (drabber individual) heard giving sharp high-pitched chip calls higher than the average âchipâ calls of lutescens. Both birds seen well albeit high up in the canopy, got some poor pics of at least one individual that will be added at some point."
Orange-crowned Warbler (Gray-headed) (Leiothlypis celata celata/orestera) (1)
- Reported Sep 14, 2026 08:59 by Roger Hammer
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392983274 - Comments: "*Seems more or less on time. One rather dull bird (tending more towards celata, but still ambiguous) with the flock near the âCasa Diabloâ (?) yard. Dull OCWA with contrasting grayish head, small bill, evenly bright white eye arcs, streaked breast, dull greenish below contrasting somewhat weakly with gray head, and very weakly and incompletely streaked undertail coverts, typical of many âgray-headedâ. Silent to the best of my knowledge. Photos tba at some point."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/14/26 7:16 pm From: Russell Namitz via groups.io <namitzr...> Subject: [slocobirding] Carrizo Plain NM - Pinyon Jay
Hello all,
With all of the movement and reports of CLARK'S NUTCRACKERS and PINYON JAYS in neighboring counties, I have been spending extra time outside at the MU Ranch on Carrizo Plain National Monument looking and listening for flyovers.
Recently, both Curtis Marantz and Nick Lethaby suggested independently that it might be good to go out and do some extra searching.
Today, I headed up to Caliente Ridge Trail above the Selby campground. The trail is 8 miles one way and follows an "admin road," serving as a fuel break for the first 5 miles. The last 3 miles to Caliente Mtn, the highest point in San Luis Obispo County, is along an unmaintained trail.
Normally, I drive and bird the first 5 miles because I have permission and the combo lock code, but today I decided to walk the 5 miles of road and back to see if I could hear any of the aforementioned species.
On the way back, I flushed a PINYON JAY up from the road and watched as it flew down the road and land about 30 yards away. I went back and was able to get some media with my cell phone. This was about 3 miles from the trailhead, just east of the radio (repeater) tower (35.088369, -119.813129).
I cannot check this area again until next Monday, but will report back. If I am successful next week, there may be opportunity to drive in from the gate looking for these species with an escort during a coordinated field trip.
Date: 9/14/26 2:05 pm From: kathannelynch1 via groups.io <kathannelynch1...> Subject: [slocobirding] Lopez Lake 302 Western and Clark's Grebes, 7 occupied nests, no young yet (08/20/26)
I am posting this slocobirding note about Lopez Lake's Western and Clark's Grebes. I just posted a slocobirding note about these grebe species for Santa Margarita Lake. These two lakes and Lake Cachuma in Santa Barbara County are where these grebes are most numerous for breeding.
My 08/20/26 summary follows:
Lopez Lake is underbirded, mostly due to its distant location from most birders. However, there are three dedicated birders who post eBird lists there using the "Lopez Lake" hotspot. I learned the ropes from Jeri Edwards, and an still learning the lake. Several additional eBird locations are also used for the northeastern Wittenberg Arm of Lopez Lake which is where these grebes are present. Below is one of my recent eBird reports:
Three hundred two (302) adult Western Grebes and Clark's Grebes were counted at Lopez Lake by me on a half-mile long survey walk on 08/20/26. This is a high count of grebes for the lske. All the grebes were in the Wittenberg Arm which is on the far northeastern corner of the lake and accessed by foot on the French Camp Road trail. There were no fledglings. It is rare to have fledglings here, but this year looks hopeful because there were 7 occupied nests (6 Clark's and 1 Western). The lake was 81.6% full. Two different eBird lists were needed to cover the two CA Bird Atlas Blocks.
Of the 55 grebes identified to species, 90% were Clark's. The large group of 240 grebes were within about 1,000 feet (0.2 miles) of each other in a quiet cove on the Wittenberg Arm. They were too far from French Camp Road to identify to species (need to use a high-powered zoom lens, approach by boat, or hike the Duna Vista Trail. (Note: Bears have been sighted daily for the past six-plus weeks on FC Road, at the shoreline, and on the DV Trail.)
Date: 9/14/26 1:37 pm From: kathannelynch1 via groups.io <kathannelynch1...> Subject: [slocobirding] Santa Margarita Lake had 240 Western and Clark's Grebes, 44 occupied nests, 14 fledglings riding on backs (08/24/26)
I'm posting this slocobirding note for folks who may not know we have outstanding access to these grebes on Santa Margarita Lake. I do detailed surveys (a personal interest, not for a company) of Western and Clark's Grebes on Santa Margarita Lake most years. I've done a couple of counts by boat in 2026. MCAS Audubon (the Revel Team) has done wonderful monthly pontoon boat trips on te lake.  I and others have observed pairs rushing, nesting, and with young in December as well as summer months.
Here is my recent note about Santa Margarita Lake. I will also post a separate slocobirding note about these two grebe species at Lopez Lake.
I counted 240 Western and Clark's Grebes on my last count on 08/24/26. The 240 grebes were 98 WEGR, 107 CLGR, and 35 WEGR/CLGR. There were 44 occupied nests and 14 fledglings riding on adults' backs or paddling nearby. The lake was 90.4% full. Two different eBird lists were needed to cover the two CA Bird Atlas Blocks of Santa Margarita Lake.
Although the two grebe species numbered about the same for the overall lake count, they preferred different parts of the lake. The Clark's preferred the main part of the lake where 67% of the grebes were Clark's. The Westerns dominated Salinas Bay near the dam in the northwestern corner of the lake where 90% of the grebes were Westerns. The 44 occupied nests on the lake were in two locations. Thirty (30) nests were in Murphy's Bay below the swimming pool and Osprey Campsites. Fourteen (14) nests were at the Salinas River Inlet on the far eastern edge of the lake.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Manx Shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) (1)
- Reported Sep 10, 2026 10:20 by Kilian Hampl
- Auto selected 35.46201, -121.27206, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.272061&<ll...>,-121.272061 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392678078 - Comments: "*Rare. I first noticed this shearwater as it flew almost parallel to the boat relatively close and immediately noted that it was a rather pale black-and-white shearwater and that there were large white saddlebags that extended up onto the sides of the rump similar to Violet-green Swallow. I did not see the face overly well though it did look paler. Very quickly after the bird was first spotted it banked and I was able to see the completely white undertail coverts. It then flew directly away from the boat and I tried to get others on it but it was quickly lost amongst other shearwaters. I believe only Reef was also able to get on this bird (and also noted the large white saddlebags). I believe this to be a different bird from the one seen on the 9/7 pelagic (which I also saw) as the saddlebags on this bird were notably larger and this bird appeared a little bit more worn. Not photographed."
Manx Shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) (1)
- Reported Sep 10, 2026 10:20 by Luke Jensen
- Auto selected 35.46201, -121.27206, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.272061&<ll...>,-121.272061 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392739047 - Comments: "*Rare. I first noticed this shearwater as it flew almost parallel to the boat relatively close and immediately noted that it was a rather pale black-and-white shearwater and that there were large white saddlebags that extended up onto the sides of the rump similar to Violet-green Swallow. I did not see the face overly well though it did look paler. Very quickly after the bird was first spotted it banked and I was able to see the completely white undertail coverts. It then flew directly away from the boat and I tried to get others on it but it was quickly lost amongst other shearwaters. I believe only Reef was also able to get on this bird (and also noted the large white saddlebags). I believe this to be a different bird from the one seen on the 9/7 pelagic (which I also saw) as the saddlebags on this bird were notably larger and this bird appeared a little bit more worn. Not photographed."
Northern Waterthrush (Parkesia noveboracensis) (1)
- Reported Sep 13, 2026 06:42 by Maggie Smith
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392659545 - Comments: "Heard loud 'chink' call; not seen. I've heard this call every time I've been there recently; always at the same spot - were there is a coverts under the road on the Norswing side of the trail. There is also dense vegetation blocking any sight of the lagoon."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (2)
- Reported Sep 13, 2026 07:10 by Kilian Hampl
- Arroyo Grande Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6287241&<ll...>,-120.6287241 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392693173 - Comments: "*Expected. One here: (35.100002, -120.626211) and another in mixed flock here: (35.099428, -120.624807). Both very dull olive OCWAs with large long bills, greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, large-headed and faint hooded appearance, streaky breast and faint vested appearance, and extensive dusky olive-streaked undertail coverts. One bird silent, the other giving husky metallic chip calls typical of this subspecies/type. Got poor photos of one bird that will be added at some point."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Least Tern (Sternula antillarum) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 11, 2026 08:58 by Herb Elliott
- Santa Maria River Estuary (SLO Co.), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6456667&<ll...>,-120.6456667 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S391909882 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "⦠tiny tern, noticeably smaller than nearby Forster's Terns with grayish upperparts, white underparts; black cap with contrasting white forehead patch; yellow bill with black tip."
Cocos Booby (Sula brewsteri) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 12, 2026 15:51 by Yamina Pressler
- Estero Bay pelagic--nearshore waters (SLO Co.), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9427955&<ll...>,-120.9427955 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392327747 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Large seabird that flew in front of the bow of the boat, several of us were able to get good looks. We tried to relocate it after it flew by but werenât able to. Noticeably larger than nearby shearwaters. Mostly brown with dirty white under wing patches. Variable brown tones on the body and upper wings. Photos. Seen at approximately 4 miles from shore (35.37758, -120.94029)"
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (2)
- Reported Sep 12, 2026 07:09 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392252668 - Comments: "*Rare but regular. HY female seen initially with a small flock of Yellows on the maintenance road was soon joined by a HY male. Both birds uniformly black-and white warblers creeping on branches similarly to a nuthatch. The female was very dull and somewhat buffy with a buffy wash on the flanks and a pale cheek and throat and weaker streaking on the sides and flanks. The male had a pale base to the lower bill mandible, a darker cheek, pale throat with some black feathers, and bolder larger streaking on the sides and flanks. At least one bird heard giving dry airy chips. Photos of both birds tba at some point."
Orange-crowned Warbler (Gray-headed) (Leiothlypis celata celata/orestera) (1)
- Reported Sep 12, 2026 07:09 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392252668 - Comments: "*Slightly early, FOS. One on the Norswing drive trail north of the main entrance. Overall dull pale OCWA with evenly brighter eye arcs, smaller bill, faint grayish cast to the head, streaked breast, and unmarked undertail coverts. Tried but unable to get photos."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (2)
- Reported Sep 12, 2026 07:09 by Kilian Hampl
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S392252668 - Comments: "*Expected. One at the native garden and another near the parking lot. Both very dull orange-crowneds with large bills, greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, large headed and faint hooded appearance, streaked breast, and extensive dusky-streaked undertail. At least one calling with thick metallic chips. Poor photos of both birds tba at some point."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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