Date: 10/13/26 9:33 am From: Matthew O'Brien via groups.io <matthewobrien...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Pinyon Jay at SCU
Carter -
Exciting. I'm an SCU grad (BSEE 1973), but can assure you I never saw a Pinyon Jay at SCU while I was there!
Pinyon Jays are an irruptive species, and have come in numbers to the Bay Area at times. I was lucky one such time.
In 2003, I saw a single individual on San Antonio Valley Road, just as the road down from Lick flattens out into the valley. At that time, Bill Bousman was the "keeper of the list and reporter" for Santa Clara County for South Bay Birds. He gathered multiple record sources.
As Pinyon Jay was significant, I reported the sighting in my trip list and sent it in.
He then replied, and told me that according to all his records, that was the first sighting in Santa Clara County. I had been at the south end of San Antonio Valley Road, which is in Santa Clara County. Proceeding north, it becomes Alameda County.
As an aside, my wife and I just spent a week in and near Santa Fe, New Mexico. We've done that maybe 8 times. This year is an irruption year there, with montane species coming down to much lower elevations. At Santa Fe level, there were ample Pinyon Jays, Clark's Nutcrackers, all three nuthatch species (usually only White-breasted), Goshawks.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/13/26 9:28 am From: Garrett Lau via groups.io <Garrett.Lau...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] [MBBIRDS] Loma Prieta neighbor threatened birders with rifle
Since someone on the MBB thread asked about the address: The shooter was at
(37.090528, -121.835868). We were at (37.091760, -121.837386). This is by
two snags where I had seen a Cassin's Finch on September 27.
Garrett Lau
On Tue, Oct 13, 2026 at 9:16â¯AM Ryan Phillips via groups.io <norcalbirding=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> Important info for SBB also going up to Loma Prieta.
> Be cautious and careful. It is another world up there and reason some of
> those folks are way up there.
> Ryan
>
> *Ryan Phillips* Ç Owner and Guide
>
> Personal and Group Birding Excursions in Northern California and Beyond
>
>
>
> Phone Ç (831) 234-7324
>
> Email Ç <norcalbirding...>
>
> Website Ç *www.norcalbirding.com <http://www.norcalbirding.com/>* >
> Facebook Ç www.facebook.com/norcalbirding
>
> "Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes
> and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird?"
>
> - Sir David Attenborough
>
>
>
>
>
> ---------- Forwarded message ---------
> From: Cliff Bixler <clifford.bixler50...>
> Date: Mon, Oct 12, 2026, 9:31â¯PM
> Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Loma Prieta neighbor threatened birders with rifle
> To: Lola Ross <lolabones...>
> Cc: David Apgar <d_apgar...>, Kent Johnson <kentjohnson...>,
> MBBirds <mbbirds...>
>
>
> It would be good to know his address so I don't stop in front of his house.
>
> On Mon, Oct 12, 2026, 9:28â¯PM Lola Ross <lolabones...> wrote:
>
>> Hi folks,
>>
>> Just wanted to update you. One of the birders who was threatened spoke
>> with a deputy and explained everything that happened. The Santa Cruz
>> Sheriffs Department determined that this incident doesnât warrant any
>> further action on their part. They told the birder that a person living in
>> that locale is allowed to shoot a gun on their own property. And based on
>> the conversation with the birders, the Sheriffs Department determined that
>> the birders were far enough away when the man pointed the gun at them that
>> he wasnât an actual threat to them.
>>
>> That being said, please do use caution and common sense when birding Loma
>> Prieta or anywhere else, especially when itâs in a residential community.
>>
>> Sincerely,
>> Lola
>>
>> On Mon, Oct 12, 2026 at 8:04â¯PM David Apgar <d_apgar...> wrote:
>>
>>> Maybe Audubon had the right idea about bird identification, after all.
>>>
>>> David
>>>
>>> On Oct 12, 2026 4:55 PM, Kent Johnson <kentjohnson...> wrote:
>>>
>>> This is not the first time this has happened. I had an unpleasant
>>> encounter with a man at that same location several years ago. No gun was
>>> involved, but the man did claim that he owned the road and could prohibit
>>> anyone from using it, which is clearly untrue. At least one other birder
>>> had a similar experience in the area. If he is becoming more aggressive it
>>> certainly needs the attention of law enforcement. His home is on the Santa
>>> Cruz side of the road, so the incident should be reported to the Santa Cruz
>>> County Sheriff.
>>> Kent Johnson
>>> ------------------------------
>>> *From:* <mbbirds...> <mbbirds...> on behalf
>>> of Lola Ross <lolabones...>
>>> *Sent:* Monday, October 12, 2026 2:39 PM
>>> *To:* MBBirds <mbbirds...>
>>> *Subject:* [MBBIRDS] Loma Prieta neighbor threatened birders with rifle
>>>
>>> Hey all,
>>>
>>> This morning I went up to Loma Prieta and ran into several birders up
>>> there when I was at the Wiliamsonâs Sapsucker stakeout pine (never saw it,
>>> but I did get nice photos of a RBS).
>>> Three birders from Santa Clara Co said a Loma Prieta resident threatened
>>> them with a rifle, fired two shots in the air, motioned them violently to
>>> go away, flipped them off, and pointed his rifle at them (not necessarily
>>> in that order). The birders were on the public county road. One of the
>>> three birders shared the location where it occurred (see link below). She
>>> took photos of the man and the location and was planning to file a report
>>> with the SC County Sheriffâs Office, but at Kimâs suggestion, Iâm posting
>>> the info here so you can all be aware.
>>>
>>> Brian Spence also returned from that direction a little later on, and
>>> had not encountered anything untoward, but I chose not to walk up that way
>>> anyway. Two drivers also sped past us at various times, purposefully
>>> revving through the softer dirt to try to coat us with dust (once by the
>>> sapsucker tree and once at the parking area). Most drivers were courteous,
>>> but not those two.
>>>
>>> Stay safe out there. Hereâs the location that was shared with me of the
>>> guy with the rifle:
>>>
>>> https://maps.app.goo.gl/diiWnzvfDEUGjFfR7?g_st=ig >>>
>>> --
>>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google
>>> Groups "mbbirds" group.
>>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send
>>> an email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
>>> To view this discussion visit
>>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/CAFCCGgm_N6wmud9%<3Dg9fY3qbD8TGupsh5tqGwoV8Fqbcmyxo-Mg...> >>> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/CAFCCGgm_N6wmud9%<3Dg9fY3qbD8TGupsh5tqGwoV8Fqbcmyxo-Mg...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >>> .
>>>
>>> --
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>>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<BL1PPFCDE88AB4399A9209CECA42E5A8C5CAA9F2...> >>> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<BL1PPFCDE88AB4399A9209CECA42E5A8C5CAA9F2...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >>> .
>>>
>>>
>>> --
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>>> To view this discussion visit
>>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<DM6PR12MB34036BD721B4ED921512BFAF9B9E2...> >>> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<DM6PR12MB34036BD721B4ED921512BFAF9B9E2...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >>> .
>>>
>> --
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Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/13/26 9:16 am From: Ryan Phillips via groups.io <norcalbirding...> Subject: [southbaybirds] [MBBIRDS] Loma Prieta neighbor threatened birders with rifle
Important info for SBB also going up to Loma Prieta.
Be cautious and careful. It is another world up there and reason some of
those folks are way up there.
Ryan
*Ryan Phillips* Ç Owner and Guide
Personal and Group Birding Excursions in Northern California and Beyond
"Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes
and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird?"
- Sir David Attenborough
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Cliff Bixler <clifford.bixler50...>
Date: Mon, Oct 12, 2026, 9:31â¯PM
Subject: Re: [MBBIRDS] Loma Prieta neighbor threatened birders with rifle
To: Lola Ross <lolabones...>
Cc: David Apgar <d_apgar...>, Kent Johnson <kentjohnson...>,
MBBirds <mbbirds...>
It would be good to know his address so I don't stop in front of his house.
On Mon, Oct 12, 2026, 9:28â¯PM Lola Ross <lolabones...> wrote:
> Hi folks,
>
> Just wanted to update you. One of the birders who was threatened spoke
> with a deputy and explained everything that happened. The Santa Cruz
> Sheriffs Department determined that this incident doesnât warrant any
> further action on their part. They told the birder that a person living in
> that locale is allowed to shoot a gun on their own property. And based on
> the conversation with the birders, the Sheriffs Department determined that
> the birders were far enough away when the man pointed the gun at them that
> he wasnât an actual threat to them.
>
> That being said, please do use caution and common sense when birding Loma
> Prieta or anywhere else, especially when itâs in a residential community.
>
> Sincerely,
> Lola
>
> On Mon, Oct 12, 2026 at 8:04â¯PM David Apgar <d_apgar...> wrote:
>
>> Maybe Audubon had the right idea about bird identification, after all.
>>
>> David
>>
>> On Oct 12, 2026 4:55 PM, Kent Johnson <kentjohnson...> wrote:
>>
>> This is not the first time this has happened. I had an unpleasant
>> encounter with a man at that same location several years ago. No gun was
>> involved, but the man did claim that he owned the road and could prohibit
>> anyone from using it, which is clearly untrue. At least one other birder
>> had a similar experience in the area. If he is becoming more aggressive it
>> certainly needs the attention of law enforcement. His home is on the Santa
>> Cruz side of the road, so the incident should be reported to the Santa Cruz
>> County Sheriff.
>> Kent Johnson
>> ------------------------------
>> *From:* <mbbirds...> <mbbirds...> on behalf of
>> Lola Ross <lolabones...>
>> *Sent:* Monday, October 12, 2026 2:39 PM
>> *To:* MBBirds <mbbirds...>
>> *Subject:* [MBBIRDS] Loma Prieta neighbor threatened birders with rifle
>>
>> Hey all,
>>
>> This morning I went up to Loma Prieta and ran into several birders up
>> there when I was at the Wiliamsonâs Sapsucker stakeout pine (never saw it,
>> but I did get nice photos of a RBS).
>> Three birders from Santa Clara Co said a Loma Prieta resident threatened
>> them with a rifle, fired two shots in the air, motioned them violently to
>> go away, flipped them off, and pointed his rifle at them (not necessarily
>> in that order). The birders were on the public county road. One of the
>> three birders shared the location where it occurred (see link below). She
>> took photos of the man and the location and was planning to file a report
>> with the SC County Sheriffâs Office, but at Kimâs suggestion, Iâm posting
>> the info here so you can all be aware.
>>
>> Brian Spence also returned from that direction a little later on, and had
>> not encountered anything untoward, but I chose not to walk up that way
>> anyway. Two drivers also sped past us at various times, purposefully
>> revving through the softer dirt to try to coat us with dust (once by the
>> sapsucker tree and once at the parking area). Most drivers were courteous,
>> but not those two.
>>
>> Stay safe out there. Hereâs the location that was shared with me of the
>> guy with the rifle:
>>
>> https://maps.app.goo.gl/diiWnzvfDEUGjFfR7?g_st=ig >>
>> --
>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
>> "mbbirds" group.
>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
>> email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
>> To view this discussion visit
>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/CAFCCGgm_N6wmud9%<3Dg9fY3qbD8TGupsh5tqGwoV8Fqbcmyxo-Mg...> >> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/CAFCCGgm_N6wmud9%<3Dg9fY3qbD8TGupsh5tqGwoV8Fqbcmyxo-Mg...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >> .
>>
>> --
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>> email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
>> To view this discussion visit
>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<BL1PPFCDE88AB4399A9209CECA42E5A8C5CAA9F2...> >> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<BL1PPFCDE88AB4399A9209CECA42E5A8C5CAA9F2...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >> .
>>
>>
>> --
>> You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups
>> "mbbirds" group.
>> To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an
>> email to mbbirds+<unsubscribe...>
>> To view this discussion visit
>> https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<DM6PR12MB34036BD721B4ED921512BFAF9B9E2...> >> <https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/mbbirds/<DM6PR12MB34036BD721B4ED921512BFAF9B9E2...>?utm_medium=email&utm_source=footer> >> .
>>
> --
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Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/13/26 9:02 am From: Elinor Gates via groups.io <egates...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Possible Pinyon Jay
I had a possible sighting of a Pinyon Jay on Mt. Hamilton, but not a good enough view to call it for sure and it moved on too quickly for me to get a photo.
Elinor
> On Oct 13, 2026, at 8:47â¯AM, Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> wrote:
>
> While birding at Santa Clara University just now I heard the very loud, nasal call of a PINYON JAY. Unfortunately I did not have a clear view of the sky and when I ran out to the open the bird was nowhere to be seen. I also did not get a recording. The bird mustâve been flying just above treetop level based on how loud the call was. Iâm not going to claim this sighting for any of my lists but hopefully others can encounter pinyon jays if their irruption has finally reached Santa Clara county.
>
>
>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/13/26 8:47 am From: Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Possible Pinyon Jay
While birding at Santa Clara University just now I heard the very loud, nasal call of a PINYON JAY. Unfortunately I did not have a clear view of the sky and when I ran out to the open the bird was nowhere to be seen. I also did not get a recording. The bird mustâve been flying just above treetop level based on how loud the call was. Iâm not going to claim this sighting for any of my lists but hopefully others can encounter pinyon jays if their irruption has finally reached Santa Clara county.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/12/26 9:27 am From: Karen via groups.io <karush111...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Field Notes: Moss Landing Beach and Jetty Road
Our rescheduled trip to Moss Landing Beach, Jetty Road was a great trip for the October Big Day. It was a pretty impressive trip from our sheer numbers and the number of birds (We had 60!) we were able to see with the help of Matthew Dodder and his scopes. Thank you Matthew and Cricket, and Linda. Unfortunately there were also quite a few dead sea lions and common murres on the beach, possibly larger numbers than expected from the effects of El Nino. We introduced ourselves at the parking lot while having some close looks at Common Murres, Common Loons, Elegant Terns, Eared Grebes and lots of Brown Pelicans on the rocky breaks. The slough and harbor were active with sea lions.
We proceeded to the beach where we could see Marbled Godwits in groups all down the beach with a few Willets, Long Billed Curlews and Sanderlings mixed in. We watched the waves and the skies for more birds. We had more Common Loons, Elegant Terns, Common Murres and a Parasitic Jaeger flying in the distance. As we headed north on the beach we almost stumbled on some Sanderlings, Semipalmated Plovers and Snowy Plovers. We had seen the Black-Bellied Plovers just minutes before so it gave a great demonstration of the size differences seen in Plovers. This would not be our last encounter and the total number of Snowy Plovers was higher than I normally encounter at 32! (Hoping all the conservation work is paying off.) We had a large group of gulls, primarily Heermann's Gulls with a few Western Gulls, and one Ring-billed Gull. Matthew also spotted an American Herring Gull which disappeared quickly. We headed back over to the Jetty Road and made our way over to the wetlands. Along the way we saw a Say's Phoebe (First of Season for me), White-Crowned Sparrows, Lincoln Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow and a couple of Bewick Wrens singing. Near the water were Great Egret, Great Blue Heron, Least Sandpipers and Black-necked Stilts. By the time we got up to the wetland area the tide was pretty high and the Willets and Marbled Godwits were pushed into the pickleweed.
The raptors saved themselves for near the end with a pair of posing White-tailed Kites on snags, Turkey Vultures, and a Northern Harrier. We headed back to the beach to have a second look at many of the birds. We saw the beach covered with what looked to be very small piles of seaweed everywhere we looked. They turned out to be hundreds of resting Least Sandpipers, Western Sandpipers and a few larger Dunlins mixed in.
During the trip we also had Brewer's Blackbirds, American Crows, Snowy Egrets, Western Grebes, Pied-billed Grebes, Brandt's and Double-crested Cormorants with a "no show" for Pelagic Cormorants. There were a few birds only seen by a few such as Pigeon Guillemot, Clark's Grebe. We also saw California Sea Lions, Humpback Whales, dolphins/porpoises (I couldn't ID), and California Sea Otters.
I'd like to thank everyone for participating and helping their fellow birder and especially Matthew.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/11/26 10:24 am From: Connor Christensen via groups.io <connor.r.christensen...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Williamson's Sapsucker at Loma Prieta
Matthew Dodder and I found a very cooperative female type Williamson's Sapsucker up at Loma Prieta on Summit Road at 37.0934270, -121.8389440 in a pine hanging over the road from the Santa Cruz side. It has spent about 20 minutes foraging in the tree with great views. It's been a great morning so far with Evening Grosbeak and Red Crossbills seen and heard migrating over. There have also been swarms of Varied Thrushes this morning as well.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/8/26 12:37 pm From: Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Raptor Migration Spectacle
There is currently a large push of migrating raptors over SCU including a FERRUGINOUS HAWK and a stunning variety of different Red-tailed Hawks. I also saw a very small buteo that may have been a Broad-winged Hawk, but it was too far to be sure. Get outside and look up!
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/7/26 3:56 pm From: Ann Hepenstal via groups.io <annhep...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Osprey at Shoreline
I was out sailing at Shoreline today, and the birds were having a wonderful day: the water was simply sparking with fingerling fish, with huge swarms of fish at the boat launch and near the shore by the boats. Brown Pelicans, a few American White Pelicans, Double-Crested Cormorants, Forster's Terns--were all on patrol in the area (or, resting).
Most notable to me--an Osprey flew over, making loops around the lake. I rarely see Osprey here so I was delighted (the people I tried to point it out to--didn't care.)
Good birding,Ann
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/6/26 10:38 am From: Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Swinhoe’s White-eye SCU
I just saw a Swinhoeâs White-eye in front of the observatory at Santa Clara University, which seems to be the second county record for Santa Clara County. Swinhoeâs White-eye is currently not countable anywhere in Northern California, but given how this species has rapidly colonized Southern California, I fear it may not be too long before they are common here. Currently, there seem to be very small local populations in San Francisco and possibly Alameda, with other scattered records. While itâs possible this bird is an escapee, I believe it is most likely a dispersant from a population elsewhere in the state. Rajan Rao in his ABA article âMeet the White-eyes!â states that, â scattered records across the West Coast⦠likely reflect dispersers from this (Southern California) source population.â
Overall, while this sighting on its own is not particularly notable, I hope that it makes local birders aware so that we can be on the lookout for more Swinhoeâs White-eyes. This species certainly wasnât on my radar, and even after observing the bird for almost a minute I only realized what it was after reviewing my photos. Given that they often live in suburban areas, itâs possible there could already be a small, recently established population on the valley floor which has so far avoided detection. Especially with the ongoing California Bird Atlas, I hope that everyone can be on the lookout for this bird in their backyards & neighborhoods (learn their call!) so we can continue documenting and learning more about its ongoing expansion.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/1/26 3:38 pm From: janna pauser via groups.io <jannapauser...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Belted Kingfisher family, late Acorn Woodpecker nesting,
A Belted Kingfisher family was seen at Almaden Reservoir this morning. A
female and 2 young were photographed on the rocks and the male
chattering upstream.
I also came across very late Acorn Woodpecker nesting. I heard the
nestlings call as I passed through the second cattle gate at the New
Almaden entrance to Rancho San Vicente. Adults were feeding a nestling
shown in my poor photos. Also here was a Say's Phoebe, Am. Kestrel, Cal.
Quail, Ruby crowned Kinglet and White crowned Sparrows. Forty Wild
Turkey's were seen feeding in a field.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 10/1/26 5:32 am From: Group Notification <noreply...> Subject: [southbaybirds] South Bay Birds Monthly Reminder #guidelines-notice
Thank you for being a member of South Bay Birds [SBB]. This is our monthly reminder sent to the list with information about the group.
South Bay Birds [SBB] is a list intended for reporting the interesting birds you find in Santa Clara county, in order to help your fellow birders see them as well. We encourage everyone to share where they bird and what they see. Please include the general location (e.g., an eBird hotspot) and, if appropriate, the bird(s) of interest in the subject line, with any additional detail needed in the message body. If you use eBird, we encourage you to include a link to the eBird trip report that you filed.
This list is maintained by the Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance ( scvbirdalliance.org) ( https://scvbirdalliance.org ). Their volunteers and funding keep the list running so please consider joining or donating to them. SBB's Lead Admin is Jim Dehnert. Chuq Von Rospach, Brooke Miller, Matthew Dodder and Barry Langdon-Lassagne assist Jim. You can contact the administration team with your questions and concerns at southbaybirds+<owner...>
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The birds we watch should be our primary concern. As birders we need to be sensitive to their needs and not do things that put the birds or their habitat at risk.
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*Acceptable Content*
The primary content for SBB is reports of interesting birds you saw and where you saw them ( https://groups.io/g/southbaybirds/message/24065 ). The objective ( https://groups.io/g/southbaybirds/message/25078 ) is to help other birders interested in the birds you saw to find them themselves. Please include the general location (e.g., an eBird hotspot) and, if appropriate, the bird(s) of interest in the subject line, with any additional detail needed in the message body. Please report only Santa Clara County locations -- other counties have their own mailing lists for trip reports.
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*Unacceptable Content*
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
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South Bay Birds and Birdwatching in Silicon Valley are affiliated with the Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance ( scvbirdalliance.org ( https://scvbirdalliance.org ) ), which offers classes and outings around the county, so if you're interested in learning more about birding in the county or joining other birders in going out birding, they can help you find an outing that matches your interests.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/30/26 1:28 pm From: Chris M. via groups.io <chrismac...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Crystal Springs and Ano Nuevo CBCs
Hi Birders,
Iâm writing to invite you to participate this year in either or both of San Mateo Countyâs CBCs.
*Crystal Springs CBC - Saturday, December 19, 2026*
*Ano Nuevo CBC - Saturday, January 2, 2027*
All CBCs are a citizen-science endeavor with the primary goal of counting all individuals of each species of bird detected in a 15 mile diameter circle on a single day.
The *Crystal Springs* count circle stretches from the Bay to the Coast and from Burlingame in the north to Redwood City in the south. *Ano Nuevo* includes the coast and up to Sam McDonald Park and from a piece of Big Basin to San Gregorio Road.  The counts include all types of habitats and terrain - some require lots of hiking, some cover areas with lots of redwoods but few birds, some mean you have to know your shorebirds well, some are flat, some strenuous, some urban, with most open space - there is something for everyone.
Iâd like to invite you to participate this year. We need all levels of experience, from beginners willing to be tabulators and spotters, to those of you with experience, whether you have counted with us in the past or not.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/30/26 1:02 pm From: janna pauser via groups.io <jannapauser...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Lewis's Woodpecker, Vasona Lake Park
Vasona Lake Parks circle group area off Garden Hill was birdy this
morning. I met Ozzie there a week ago and he showed me his hybrid
warbler. Today I saw four each male Townsend's Warblers, Yellow-rumped
Warblers, Western Bluebirds, a Brown Creeper and several White breasted
Nuthatch. Attached is a photo of I got of Ozzie's hybrid Townsends,
Yellow rumped Warbler which is still in the area. A Lewis's Woodpecker
flew over and landed in the top of a pine but was backlit. My only photo
was just as it look off flying.
I found a Northern Shoveler and Am. Wigeon on the lake.
I met Susan looking for Garrett Lau's Blackpoll Warbler but the area was
quiet so I left.
A Northern Yellow Warbler has been at out backyard fountain every day
since Sept.11. Yesterday a less common visitor, Orange crowned warbler
was seen. Western Tanagers are heard daily and also come to the fountain.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/27/26 5:10 pm From: Sergey Pavlov via groups.io <spavlov2000...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Yellow-throated Vireo at Rengstorff House
Yellow-throated Vireo seen again first by Colin and later a couple others at about 4:25-4:28 pm in the eucalyptus behind the Rengstorff House at (37.4314113, -122.0879216). Main house property still closed for the event and conditions tough due to wind.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/27/26 11:27 am From: Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Yellow-throated Vireo at Rengstorff House
Bird was just refound after a long wait by Dorian Anderson near the original location in the low branches of a cottonwood behind the windmill.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/27/26 10:40 am From: Ryan L. via groups.io <ryanbirding...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Evening Grosbeak & Blue-headed Vireo - Penitencia Ponds
Hit send too fast. North side of Penetencia Ponds
> On Sep 27, 2026, at 10:38â¯AM, Ryan L. <ryanbirding...> wrote:
>
> Both seen from 37.39370° N, 121.83641° W
> Photo of grosbeak
>
> BHVI had very blue head, two bright bold wingbars, yellow underneath, broken âspectaclesâ around eyes
>
> <image0.jpeg>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/27/26 8:40 am From: Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Yellow-throated Vireo at Rengstorff House
Iris Yuh and I just stumbled across a YELLOW-THROATED VIREO in the cottonwoods next to Rengstorff House at Shoreline at Mountain View now. (37.4315969, -122.0875434)
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/27/26 8:02 am From: Brooke Miller via groups.io <brooke.bam...> Subject: [southbaybirds] AUGUST 2026 Cumulative Bird Report for Santa Clara County
South Bay Birders:
In August we added 4 new countable birds, bringing the total to 273 at the
end of the month. The average for August is 6 new birds, with an average
of 266 at the end of the month. Thank you to everyone who birded, and took
the time to report birds either on SBB, eBird, or send emails directly to
me.
Here are the birds that were found in August:
1. Long-tailed Duck (5), 2026-08-13, seen by Raymond Chu at Alviso Marina
County Park
2. Summer Tanager (5), 2026-08-14, found by Howard Friedman at Lick Mill
Park
3. Common Tern (4), 2026-08-15, seen by multiple observers at Salt Pond A3W
4. Baird's Sandpiper (4), 2026-08-18, found by Will Brooks at Crittenden
Marsh
As a reminder, here is what each rarity code means:
**Rarity Codes:
1 = common, always seen in habitat in season.
2 = fairly common, usually in habitat in season, but missed sometimes.
3 = uncommon, always around, but sometimes you can't find.
4 = rare, occurs yearly in the county, but not always in same places.
5 = very rare, does not occur every year.
6 = casual or vagrant, generally fewer than 10 records.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/26/26 5:08 pm From: zhouyz2013 via groups.io <zhouyz2013...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Bald eagle at Penitencia Creek Trail
Hi all,
This morning around 11:50 AM, I saw a large bird flying into a conifer tree at the west end of Penitencia Creek Trail (37°23'30.2"N, 121°50'22.0"W). It turned out to be a Bald Eagle when I saw its white tail.
It perched there for a while, then flew toward the east side of the trail and later continued north. When I was about to leave, it appeared again, flying toward the pond. It then flew back north, circling around a large eucalyptus tree beyond the neighborhood.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Deb and I were setting out on our back deck this morning and were delighted to see our first Hermit Thrush of the fall visit our backyard.
Fall is here!
Hugh McDevitt
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/25/26 10:03 am From: Chris Johnson via groups.io <ryanjohnson77...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Hermit Warbler Penitencia Creek Trail
Hi All,
I found a Hermit Warbler at Penitencia Creek Trail yesterday and it was present again today. At least one Black-throated Gray Warbler was along the creek as well.
Location today: 37.391969,-121.836830
Location yesterday: 37.392700,-121.835938
The Hermit certainly has a preference for conifers, but I also had it in oaks and other trees.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/24/26 10:02 am From: Edward Reed via groups.io <ed.reed3...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Osprey at Gate of Heaven Cemetery
Found an Osprey at Gate Of Heaven Cemetery pond. (Large pond) at about 9AM.
The bird circled a few times, landed at top of a pine then harassed by crows.
Not unusual to see Green Heron or Kingfisher at this site.
After 40 years, first time to see an Osprey at this location.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/23/26 3:30 pm From: John Harshman via groups.io <john.harshman...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Sierra Vista OSP, September 23
Today Edward Rooks and I led a combined SCVBA/OSA field trip to Sierra Vista OSP. We had good luck with both our target species, seeing two adult and two juvenile *golden eagles* and two *rock wrens*. But the highlight of the trip was probably a single male *phainopepla*. In all, we saw 36 species, including *horned lark* , *rufous-crowned sparrow* , *lark* *sparrow* , *California* *thrasher* , and *white-throated* and *Vaux's swifts* , and a single *tricolored blackbird*.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/22/26 1:41 pm From: Vicki Silvas-Young via groups.io <mrnngwrblr...> Subject: [southbaybirds] CNPS and SCVBA Field Trip on the First Day of Fall to Lake Cunningham, 9-20-2026, Sunday
Hi, Birders, On a very nice fall day 13 "Yellow Warber hopeful" attendees from California Native Plant Society and Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance met in the Marina parking lot of Lake Cunningham to walk the Inner Lake Path to the Native Garden. And we were not disappointed! To greet us on the lawn area, was a big flock of unshy Great-tailed Grackles in all sorts of amusing plumage changes with some males even displaying. Near the boat ramp, as we gazed over the water, the antics of Pied-billed Grebes and American Coots, and a Green Heron flyby entertained us. In the trees a Yellow-rumped warbler with our very first Northern Yellow Warbler excited us! There were no Red-breasted Sapsuckers in the pepper trees. :( But just after the pepper trees, we managed to see a silent, stealthy Sora do a quick dash in and out of the cattails. In the little cove before the Native Garden an adult Pied-billed Grebe was being trailed by a juvenile screaming to be fed. The adult obliged just to stop the screaming. As we approached the Native Garden the number of birds picked up with a Northern Mockingbird singing a greeting song, Chestnut-backed Chickadees, Oak Titmouse, California Towhees, Bushtits, House Finches singing and feeding, numerous Anna's Hummingbirds sucking up as much nectar from the California Fuschias as they could, and again another Yellow Warbler who brought his pals, a couple of Red-breasted Nuthatches fed in the trees. A Red-shouldered Hawk called in the distance. Nice! Thank you to my co-leaders, Arvind K. and Nathan D., for comments and guidance in native plant identification. A very special thank you to Zainab J. for being an attentive co-leader and getting people on the bird. The eBird list for this field trip is here https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/checklist/S394764740 The San Jose Christmas Count is coming soon on December 19, Saturday. Sign up now! Plan ahead, Vicki
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/22/26 1:27 pm From: Sirena Lao via groups.io <Sirenalao...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] White faced ibis at Alviso EEC entrance road
For anyone interested, there are currently 4 White-faced Ibises roosting in New Chicago Marsh, visible from the road driving in.
Our team at San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society and US Fish & Wildlife Service first saw them on Saturday, September 19th during our Coastal Cleanup event.
We have the gate open until 1:15pm today for a college field trip!
Sirena
On Mon, Sep 21, 2026, 12:22 Juliana Manoliu via groups.io <manojuli= <comcast.net...> wrote:
> After reading about the Sept. 20 white faced ibis late in the afternoon, > took my chances on Sept. 21 in the morning. > > Driving slowly toward the dirt parking lot saw nothing, but after getting > out of the car, soon 2 *White-faced ibis *flew by and landed nearby. > > Drove back South and found 3 of them feeding next to the road. A truck > drove by and they flew toward the middle of the marsh and within a few > minutes they were gone. > > Juliana Manoliu > > >
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/21/26 12:22 pm From: Juliana Manoliu via groups.io <manojuli...> Subject: [southbaybirds] White faced ibis at Alviso EEC entrance road
After reading about the Sept. 20 white faced ibis late in the afternoon,
took my chances on Sept. 21 in the morning.
Driving slowly toward the dirt parking lot saw nothing, but after
getting out of the car, soon 2 */White-faced ibis /*flew by and landed
nearby.
Drove back South and found 3 of them feeding next to the road. A truck
drove by and they flew toward the middle of the marsh and within a few
minutes they were gone.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/20/26 8:59 pm From: Connor Christensen via groups.io <connor.r.christensen...> Subject: [southbaybirds] SCVBA Trip Report: Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge
It was a fantastic morning birding at Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge. Fall migration was in full swing, with a large flock of Violet-green Swallows and Vaux's Swifts swarming our welcome circle. A large flock of hundreds of Forster's Terns was seen on the move, and at one point the distant horizon was blackened by enormous flocks of migrating gulls. In smaller numbers , but even more excitin g, we saw several small groups of White-faced Ibis fly down into the New Chicago Marsh.
As we walked down the boardwalks of New Chicago Marsh, we got some close views of our most popular shorebirds. We had a very shy Greater Yellowlegs who spooked quickly, along with a very brave flock of Long-billed Dowitchers which let us walk within a few feet of their methodical foraging. We also got great views of pairs of American Avocets and Black-necked Stilts along wth some peeping Least Sandpipers. Raptors were also out and about, with a Peregrine Falcon standing watch on a powerline tower right next to the entrance gate as well as a distant Bald Eagle and Red-tailed Hawk guarding their own towers.
The ponds were beginning to fill with wintering ducks, including a flock of Northern Pintails and scattered Green-winged Teals. Saltpond A16 was full of hundreds of American White Pelicans and dozens of Brown Pelicans roosting on the Islands. As we began our way up the Mallard Slough Trail, we got some of the best looks at a male Common Yellowthroat I've ever seen as it hopped between reeds and slid down them. Along the trail, we kept our ears peeled and were serenaded by Marsh Wrens, Song Sparrows, and a few Virginia Rails.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/20/26 9:43 am From: hacksoncode via groups.io <hacksoncode...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] CLARK'S NUTCRACKERS
Evening Grosbeak just seen at this same spot.
--
Ray
On Sat, Sep 19, 2026, 8:31â¯PM Ryan Phillips via groups.io <norcalbirding=
<gmail.com...> wrote:
> I posted the wrong coords. They were not on the upper saddle but down Mt
> Madonna Road.
> Correct coords here:
> 37.087952,-121.827024
>
> Be wary and aware about the two gates that are labeled private road no
> public access. The CLNU were seen well before that gate near Knibbs Knob
> Trail.
>
> *Ryan Phillips* Ç Owner and Guide
>
> Personal and Group Birding Excursions in Northern California and Beyond
>
>
>
> Phone Ç (831) 234-7324
>
> Email Ç <norcalbirding...>
>
> Website Ç *www.norcalbirding.com <http://www.norcalbirding.com/>* >
> Facebook Ç www.facebook.com/norcalbirding
>
> "Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes
> and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird?"
>
> - Sir David Attenborough
>
>
>
>
>
> On Sat, Sep 19, 2026, 3:12â¯PM Ryan Phillips <norcalbirding...>
> wrote:
>
>> Just had a flock of about 15 CLARK'S NUTCRACKERS here on Santa Clara
>> County side!! Lost sight of them as they went low. I feel like they settled
>> and did not continue north. Searching....
>>
>> Seen about here: 37.1053621, -121.8481666
>>
>> This seems like a good spot to watch for them:
>> 37.093427,-121.838944
>>
>>
>>
>> *Ryan Phillips* Ç Owner and Guide
>>
>> Personal and Group Birding Excursions in Northern California and Beyond
>>
>>
>>
>> Phone Ç (831) 234-7324
>>
>> Email Ç <norcalbirding...>
>>
>> Website Ç *www.norcalbirding.com <http://www.norcalbirding.com/>* >>
>> Facebook Ç www.facebook.com/norcalbirding
>>
>> "Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes
>> and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird?"
>>
>> - Sir David Attenborough
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/20/26 8:53 am From: Enid via groups.io <enid.fox1...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Kingbird at Sunnyvale Baylands
Best I could do with my iPhone
> On Sep 20, 2026, at 8:48â¯AM, Enid Fox <enid.fox1...> wrote:
>
> I saw a lone Kingbird in the trees along the Wave trail. I couldnât see the tail to tell what type of kingbird but it was flying in the typical pattern of a kingbird. 9/20/26
> Enid
> Sent from my iPhone
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/20/26 8:48 am From: Enid via groups.io <enid.fox1...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Kingbird at Sunnyvale Baylands
I saw a lone Kingbird in the trees along the Wave trail. I couldnât see the tail to tell what type of kingbird but it was flying in the typical pattern of a kingbird. 9/20/26
Enid
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
The City will begin construction this fall to rehabilitate the East Levee access roads at the Water Pollution Control Plant. Construction is expected to conclude in early 2027. Improvements include slope repairs, widening the access roads and removal of overgrown vegetation. The pond levee roads will be closed on weekdays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Access to the San Francisco Bay Trail will remain open, but visitors should use caution due to anticipated construction traffic. Construction flaggers will be on hand during the weekday hours to help direct pedestrians to the trail detour route. For more information, email Public Works or call 408-730-7605
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
"Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes
and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird?"
- Sir David Attenborough
On Sat, Sep 19, 2026, 3:12â¯PM Ryan Phillips <norcalbirding...> wrote:
> Just had a flock of about 15 CLARK'S NUTCRACKERS here on Santa Clara
> County side!! Lost sight of them as they went low. I feel like they settled
> and did not continue north. Searching....
>
> Seen about here: 37.1053621, -121.8481666
>
> This seems like a good spot to watch for them:
> 37.093427,-121.838944
>
>
>
> *Ryan Phillips* Ç Owner and Guide
>
> Personal and Group Birding Excursions in Northern California and Beyond
>
>
>
> Phone Ç (831) 234-7324
>
> Email Ç <norcalbirding...>
>
> Website Ç *www.norcalbirding.com <http://www.norcalbirding.com/>* >
> Facebook Ç www.facebook.com/norcalbirding
>
> "Everyone likes birds. What wild creature is more accessible to our eyes
> and ears, as close to us and everyone in the world, as universal as a bird?"
>
> - Sir David Attenborough
>
>
>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/19/26 3:12 pm From: Ryan Phillips via groups.io <norcalbirding...> Subject: [southbaybirds] CLARK'S NUTCRACKERS
Just had a flock of about 15 CLARK'S NUTCRACKERS here on Santa Clara County
side!! Lost sight of them as they went low. I feel like they settled and
did not continue north. Searching....
Seen about here: 37.1053621, -121.8481666
This seems like a good spot to watch for them:
37.093427,-121.838944
*Ryan Phillips* Ç Owner and Guide
Personal and Group Birding Excursions in Northern California and Beyond
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/19/26 10:23 am From: Enid via groups.io <enid.fox1...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Sunnyvale Baylands FOS GCS
Today I heard my FOS Golden-crowned sparrow at SV Baylands. There was a Red-tailed hawk stalking a black squirrel in the picnic area. A sleepy barn owl watched from high above. Those 2 hawks are showing up every day and all over the park.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/19/26 9:41 am From: Chris Henry via groups.io <birdingwithchris...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Clark’s Nutcracker and Montane Irruption
This morning at Loma Prieta I had a lone Clarkâs Nutcracker fly by, in Santa Clara County. Other montane things included Townsendâs Solitaire and lots of visible migrating Red Breasted Nuthatches.
Definitely worth going up throughout the next few weeks.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/18/26 7:24 pm From: Deborah Zajac via groups.io <dmzajac2004...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Nutcracker/montane invasion year
We've had some big fires here in No. Nevada that may be displacing our Nutcrackers, and Pinon Jays.  The Pinon Jays need the Pinon Pines to survive so I hope those there will return.We have Pinon Pines that are thriving and not disrupted by fire here.The Nutcrackers will be fine if they can find white pines and limber pines from 3000ft and up. If not I hope they too turn around and head home to Nevada!Â
Enjoy the sightings and get those Lifers while you can! Incidentals are amazing!Â
Happy Birding,
Deborah
--------------------------------------
Dear Correspondent Friend, please :
1. Write me alone or on BCC line,
2. No chain letters and attachments,
3. Use an identifiable subject line.
-------------------------------
On Friday, September 18, 2026 at 07:03:55 PM PDT, Elinor Gates <egates...> wrote:
I saw a Red-breasted Nuthatch on Mt. Hamilton this afternoon. Â Iâll keep a lookout for other unusual visiting birds.
Elinor GatesMt. HamiltonÂ
On Sep 18, 2026, at 6:13â¯PM, Aidan Sinha via groups.io <aidansinha...> wrote:
Hi all, No sightings in SCC yet, but over the last day there have been nutcrackers reported in the East Bay, San Francisco, and even a single apparently offshore in Mendocino. It seems this year birds have been irrupting out of the Great Basin - many nutcrackers have been in Santa Barbara as well recently, and Pinyon Jays have been reported in some sites across SoCal though in smaller numbers. It does seem that the invasion has hit the Bay Area however, so it would definitely be a good time to start checking high elevation sites within the county. Some sites could include Monte Bello, Loma Prieta, Mount Umunhum, Mount Madonna, and Skyline Boulevard in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The Diablo Range, including Henry Coe SP and Mount Hamilton/San Antonio Valley Roads, are also possibly worth a check. In addition to the corvids, Evening Grosbeaks and Red-breasted Nuthatches are also apparently having an invasion year, so these could also be good targets to search for. Good luck to everyone searching and happy fall birding! Aidan SinhaSan Jose
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/18/26 7:02 pm From: Ginger Langdon-Lassagne via groups.io <binzer...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Nutcracker/montane invasion year
Hi Folks â
From my perspective here in San Luis Obispo County, everything Aidan is saying rings true. Henry Coe summits and Mt. Hamilton are particularly similar to the habitats where weâve had Pinyon Jays and Nutcrackers, showing up in the past three days here. Todayâs SLO-local sightings were truly one for the record books.
Get thee to a Summit! Bird On! (hat tip to Bill & Kitty)
Ginger
Oh! And as a p.s. â While youâre out there, DO NOT forget to note ANY breeding bird behavior, of any species, please! AND please post it to the California Bird Atlas! As has been very evident, the birds do NOT seem to care what we think about maps, dates, or the schedules we want them to adhere to, for our own convenience. Climate change is making things really weird this year, with the epic El Niño going on. Iâve had Nests with Eggs codes where there should be none, for at least a month!
Ginger Langdon-Lassagne
San Luis Obispo Regional Coordinator
California Bird Atlas
https://www.californiabirdatlas.org/
California Bird Atlas
californiabirdatlas.org
> On Sep 18, 2026, at 6:13 PM, Aidan Sinha via groups.io <aidansinha...> wrote:
>
> Hi all,
>
> No sightings in SCC yet, but over the last day there have been nutcrackers reported in the East Bay, San Francisco, and even a single apparently offshore in Mendocino. It seems this year birds have been irrupting out of the Great Basin - many nutcrackers have been in Santa Barbara as well recently, and Pinyon Jays have been reported in some sites across SoCal though in smaller numbers.
>
> It does seem that the invasion has hit the Bay Area however, so it would definitely be a good time to start checking high elevation sites within the county. Some sites could include Monte Bello, Loma Prieta, Mount Umunhum, Mount Madonna, and Skyline Boulevard in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The Diablo Range, including Henry Coe SP and Mount Hamilton/San Antonio Valley Roads, are also possibly worth a check.
>
> In addition to the corvids, Evening Grosbeaks and Red-breasted Nuthatches are also apparently having an invasion year, so these could also be good targets to search for. Good luck to everyone searching and happy fall birding!
>
> Aidan Sinha
> San Jose
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/18/26 6:13 pm From: Aidan Sinha via groups.io <aidansinha...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Nutcracker/montane invasion year
Hi all,
No sightings in SCC yet, but over the last day there have been nutcrackers reported in the East Bay, San Francisco, and even a single apparently offshore in Mendocino. It seems this year birds have been irrupting out of the Great Basin - many nutcrackers have been in Santa Barbara as well recently, and Pinyon Jays have been reported in some sites across SoCal though in smaller numbers.
It does seem that the invasion has hit the Bay Area however, so it would definitely be a good time to start checking high elevation sites within the county. Some sites could include Monte Bello, Loma Prieta, Mount Umunhum, Mount Madonna, and Skyline Boulevard in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The Diablo Range, including Henry Coe SP and Mount Hamilton/San Antonio Valley Roads, are also possibly worth a check.
In addition to the corvids, Evening Grosbeaks and Red-breasted Nuthatches are also apparently having an invasion year, so these could also be good targets to search for. Good luck to everyone searching and happy fall birding!
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/18/26 2:10 pm From: jason altus via groups.io <jaltus2...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] Possible Hybrid Warbler
I got more extensive views and some poor digibin photos shortly after originally posting, and I would say the warbler is definitely a hybrid and indeed looks good for Yellow-rumped x Townsendâs specifically.
It was near Bushtits for the duration of the encounter. I believe I heard the bird chipping but I never saw and heard it at the same time. I last saw it along the lake edge. After that the Bushtits started working their way uphill towards Circle Group Site. I heard probably the warbler chipping by the restrooms but I didnât spot it. I wasnât able to find the bird in the next 50 minutes.
> On Sep 18, 2026, at 12:43â¯PM, jason altus via groups.io <jaltus2...> wrote:
>
> A few minutes ago I saw what looked like a good candidate for Yellow-rumped x Townsendâs Warbler hybrid at Vasona, 37.24322° N, 121.96772° W
>
> At first glance it looked like an Audubonâs but it had a stronger face pattern with a noticeable yellowish supercilium and some yellow on the breast
>
> Ozzie Altus
> Campbell
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/18/26 9:09 am From: Enid via groups.io <enid.fox1...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Sunnyvale Baylands Western Tanager
I heard and saw a female Western tanager near the parking lot at Sunnyvale Baylands. Two Red-tail hawks are very active there and flew right past us in hunt of a mourning dove at the boardwalk. Still hearing Western flycatchers and Yellow warblers as well as Sayâs phoebe.
Enid
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/16/26 10:27 pm From: Melody Bafetti via groups.io <melodyybirds...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Black-throated Gray Warblers - Where to find?
Hi all,
Not 100% sure if this is the right place to ask (feel free to correct me and/or take down the post if it isn't), but I was curious about what some of the best spots here in the county are to find a *Black-throated Gray Warbler*. I've been trying with no avail to find one this year, and would like to hopefully see one before the end of fall migration. It would be a lifer for me! I know there are a lot of birders here with a wealth of knowledge about birding in SCC, so I thought this would be a good place to ask :)
I'm also open to any general recs for fall migration birding!
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/16/26 1:57 pm From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] SCVBA Trip to Vasona
Hi Everyone!
This morning Edward Rooks and I led a SCVBA trip to Vasona. We started off at the boat center parking lot which was very birdy - *Western Tanagers*, *Vaux's Swifts*, *Brown Creeper*, *White-breasted Nuthatches*. Another pocket of birdiness was the picnic area on the west side of the creek just north of the train station. The *Willow Flycatcher* that I saw on Monday was continuing there plus lots of *Yellow Warblers *and more *Western Tanagers*. Just south of the red pedestrian bridge on the west side of the lake, we had *Yellow Warblers*, a few *Yellow-rumped Warblers *and more *Western Tanagers*. (Western Tanagers were everywhere - counted about 10 of them and that's probably an undercount.) *American Coots* and *Pied-billed Grebes* still were feeding young on the lake. Towards the end of our trip, we had our first *White-crowned Sparrow*.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/16/26 9:34 am From: Carter Gasiorowski via groups.io <carter.gasiorowski...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Pelagic Cormorant, A2W
There is currently an apparent Pelagic Cormorant sitting on the wooden walkway between the high tension lines in the northern part of pond A2W near Shoreline in Mountain View. The bird is at (37.4475829, -122.0754875). I am viewing it with a scope from the newly opened song sparrow spur trail here (37.4456267, -122.0658151)
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/16/26 8:01 am From: Dorothy Johnson via groups.io <dfj6281...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] White-crowned Sparrows and Red-breasted Nuthatches
Hi Everyone,
I was at Ulistac yesterday and saw my FOS WHITE CROWNED SPARROWS and a RED
BREASTED NUTHATCH, probably one of the Lick Mill birds. Also OLIVE SIDED
and WESTERN FLYCATCHERS, and a YELLOW and WILSON'S WARBLER. Great day.
Happy birding
Dorothy Johnson
San Jose
On Tue, Sep 15, 2026 at 11:51â¯PM Gregory Luckert via groups.io
<Greg.luckert...> wrote:
> Hi,
>
> Melanie is correctâCalabazas Creek near the footbridge is great for fall
> migrants, offering close views due to its size. Standing below the levee on
> the east side during a mid-September mid-morning usually yields most common
> migrants, including willow flycatchers and occasionally red-breasted
> nuthatches.
>
> On a side note, I spotted two white-crowned sparrows today on the Bay
> Trail by the Residence Inn near the lower Guadalupe River. Iâve also been
> seeing and hearing red-breasted nuthatches in unusual spots this year.
>
> Best,
> Greg Luckert
>
> On Tue, Sep 15, 2026 at 21:59 Melanie Barnett via groups.io <mjb2024=
> <proton.me...> wrote:
>
>> Hi Eve! Hi all!
>>
>> I saw my FOS *White-crowned Sparrow* yesterday at Calabazas Creek - and
>> also had a nice view of a calling *Red-breasted Nuthatch.*
>>
>> The Creek was also active with migrants; I had several each of *Western
>> Flycatcher *and *Northern Yellow Warbler.* Checklist:
>> https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/checklist/S393240177 >>
>> Anecdotally, I've seen eBird reports and posts to other birding email
>> lists suggesting there's an irruption of *Red-breasted Nuthatches* in
>> the Bay Area.
>>
>> BTW, if anyone is interested in birding this stretch of the creek, it's
>> easy to access. Park in the Lakewood Village neighborhood, near the path
>> here: 37.3981107, -121.9873974, then walk over to, and across the
>> pedestrian bridge. *Willow Flycatchers* are usually here in September
>> (in fact Greg L. had 2, maybe 3 on Sept 8). I don't know if the vegetation
>> is dense enough now to attract a *Northern Waterthrush*, but one passed
>> through in Sep 19, 2023. Good times!
>>
>> Happy Birding!
>>
>> Melanie Barnett (Sunnyvale)
>>
>> On Tuesday, September 15th, 2026 at 3:55 PM, Eve Meier via groups.io
>> <eve.m.meier...> wrote:
>>
>> Hi Everyone!
>>
>> While walking with my mom at Hellyer CP (northside), I spotted my first
>> of season *White-crowned Sparrows*. So happy for their return. Also, has
>> anyone else noticed more *Red-breasted Nuthatches* lately? I had one
>> across the street from my house and another on a neighborhood walk. That's
>> unusual for my area (Cambrian Area of San Jose).
>>
>> Happy birding!
>>
>> Eve Meier (San Jose)
>>
>>
>>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/15/26 11:51 pm From: Gregory Luckert via groups.io <Greg.luckert...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] White-crowned Sparrows and Red-breasted Nuthatches
Hi,
Melanie is correctâCalabazas Creek near the footbridge is great for fall
migrants, offering close views due to its size. Standing below the levee on
the east side during a mid-September mid-morning usually yields most common
migrants, including willow flycatchers and occasionally red-breasted
nuthatches.
On a side note, I spotted two white-crowned sparrows today on the Bay Trail
by the Residence Inn near the lower Guadalupe River. Iâve also been seeing
and hearing red-breasted nuthatches in unusual spots this year.
Best,
Greg Luckert
On Tue, Sep 15, 2026 at 21:59 Melanie Barnett via groups.io <mjb2024=
<proton.me...> wrote:
> Hi Eve! Hi all!
>
> I saw my FOS *White-crowned Sparrow* yesterday at Calabazas Creek - and
> also had a nice view of a calling *Red-breasted Nuthatch.*
>
> The Creek was also active with migrants; I had several each of *Western
> Flycatcher *and *Northern Yellow Warbler.* Checklist:
> https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/checklist/S393240177 >
> Anecdotally, I've seen eBird reports and posts to other birding email
> lists suggesting there's an irruption of *Red-breasted Nuthatches* in the
> Bay Area.
>
> BTW, if anyone is interested in birding this stretch of the creek, it's
> easy to access. Park in the Lakewood Village neighborhood, near the path
> here: 37.3981107, -121.9873974, then walk over to, and across the
> pedestrian bridge. *Willow Flycatchers* are usually here in September (in
> fact Greg L. had 2, maybe 3 on Sept 8). I don't know if the vegetation is
> dense enough now to attract a *Northern Waterthrush*, but one passed
> through in Sep 19, 2023. Good times!
>
> Happy Birding!
>
> Melanie Barnett (Sunnyvale)
>
> On Tuesday, September 15th, 2026 at 3:55 PM, Eve Meier via groups.io
> <eve.m.meier...> wrote:
>
> Hi Everyone!
>
> While walking with my mom at Hellyer CP (northside), I spotted my first of
> season *White-crowned Sparrows*. So happy for their return. Also, has
> anyone else noticed more *Red-breasted Nuthatches* lately? I had one
> across the street from my house and another on a neighborhood walk. That's
> unusual for my area (Cambrian Area of San Jose).
>
> Happy birding!
>
> Eve Meier (San Jose)
>
>
>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/15/26 10:13 pm From: Melody Bafetti via groups.io <melodyybirds...> Subject: Re: [southbaybirds] White-crowned Sparrows and Red-breasted Nuthatches
Hi all!
I also got some very nice views of a *Red-Breasted Nuthatch* at Hellyer
County Park this past Saturday. According to eBird data, they were last
seen at the park in 2024!
Unfortunately still waiting on my FOS *White-Crowned Sparrow*, but Iâm
betting itâll happen soon!
Happy birding,
Melody Bafetti
On Tue, Sep 15, 2026 at 9:59â¯PM Melanie Barnett via groups.io <mjb2024=
<proton.me...> wrote:
> Hi Eve! Hi all!
>
> I saw my FOS *White-crowned Sparrow* yesterday at Calabazas Creek - and
> also had a nice view of a calling *Red-breasted Nuthatch.*
>
> The Creek was also active with migrants; I had several each of *Western
> Flycatcher *and *Northern Yellow Warbler.* Checklist:
> https://ebird.org/atlascalifornia/checklist/S393240177 >
> Anecdotally, I've seen eBird reports and posts to other birding email
> lists suggesting there's an irruption of *Red-breasted Nuthatches* in the
> Bay Area.
>
> BTW, if anyone is interested in birding this stretch of the creek, it's
> easy to access. Park in the Lakewood Village neighborhood, near the path
> here: 37.3981107, -121.9873974, then walk over to, and across the
> pedestrian bridge. *Willow Flycatchers* are usually here in September (in
> fact Greg L. had 2, maybe 3 on Sept 8). I don't know if the vegetation is
> dense enough now to attract a *Northern Waterthrush*, but one passed
> through in Sep 19, 2023. Good times!
>
> Happy Birding!
>
> Melanie Barnett (Sunnyvale)
>
> On Tuesday, September 15th, 2026 at 3:55 PM, Eve Meier via groups.io
> <eve.m.meier...> wrote:
>
> Hi Everyone!
>
> While walking with my mom at Hellyer CP (northside), I spotted my first of
> season *White-crowned Sparrows*. So happy for their return. Also, has
> anyone else noticed more *Red-breasted Nuthatches* lately? I had one
> across the street from my house and another on a neighborhood walk. That's
> unusual for my area (Cambrian Area of San Jose).
>
> Happy birding!
>
> Eve Meier (San Jose)
>
>
>
>
>
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Anecdotally, I've seen eBird reports and posts to other birding email lists suggesting there's an irruption of Red-breasted Nuthatches in the Bay Area.
BTW, if anyone is interested in birding this stretch of the creek, it's easy to access. Park in the Lakewood Village neighborhood, near the path here: 37.3981107, -121.9873974, then walk over to, and across the pedestrian bridge. Willow Flycatchers are usually here in September (in fact Greg L. had 2, maybe 3 on Sept 8). I don't know if the vegetation is dense enough now to attract a Northern Waterthrush, but one passed through in Sep 19, 2023. Good times!
Happy Birding!
Melanie Barnett (Sunnyvale)
On Tuesday, September 15th, 2026 at 3:55 PM, Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> wrote:
> Hi Everyone! > > While walking with my mom at Hellyer CP (northside), I spotted my first of season White-crowned Sparrows. So happy for their return. Also, has anyone else noticed more Red-breasted Nuthatches lately? I had one across the street from my house and another on a neighborhood walk. That's unusual for my area (Cambrian Area of San Jose). > > Happy birding! > > Eve Meier (San Jose) >
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/15/26 3:55 pm From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] White-crowned Sparrows and Red-breasted Nuthatches
Hi Everyone!
While walking with my mom at Hellyer CP (northside), I spotted my first of season *White-crowned Sparrows*. So happy for their return. Also, has anyone else noticed more *Red-breasted Nuthatches* lately? I had one across the street from my house and another on a neighborhood walk. That's unusual for my area (Cambrian Area of San Jose).
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/14/26 7:00 pm From: Eve Meier via groups.io <eve.m.meier...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Vasona
Hi Everyone!
This morning Susan T and I birded Vasona to get ready for my field trip. There were about 10 *Vaux's Swifts *repeatedly flying near the lake, a lot of *Northern Yellow Warblers*, one *Yellow-rumped Warbler*, several *Western Tanagers*, one *Red-breasted Nuthatch* and a *Willow Flycatcher* (Meadowbrook Group Area at 37.23814132451401, -121.97342654393655).
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
Date: 9/13/26 5:06 pm From: David Zittin via groups.io <dzittin...> Subject: [southbaybirds] Migrants at Vasona Lake Co. Park
Hi Birders,
Two of us spent a few minutes at Vasona today. Without too much trouble we spotted two Northern Yellow Warblers and a single bright male Townsend's Warbler. All were seen at the south end of Vasona Park on the west side of Los Gatos Creek near the sand volleyball court.
-Dave Zittin
Cupertino
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
