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Post by Chris on Sept 20, 2013 13:08:32 GMT -8
I observed a Philly Vireo at Island 22 this morning. There was a mixed flock of birds that I was following/watching. At one point I placed my bins on a bird that was a vireo. What struck me right away was the yellow on the breast, a lot more than a Warbling Vireo. The head was darker than a Warbling as well. I didn't get good looks at the lores so I can't comment on those. However, the breast and head definitely points to Philly. I observed Warbling Vireo on my walk as well and this bird was quite different from those. I saw the bird in the southwest area of the equestrian region. I was along the fence looking north. It took off flying west and I spent about 45 minutes trying to relocate it but I didn't have any luck. Unfortunately, I didn't manage to get photos of the bird.
Third record for the checklist area and all three have been at Island 22. Hopefully this one sticks around as the one Gord and I saw in 2010 was only observed for one day.
Another highlight was Red-eyed Vireo. Late for this species.
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Post by Gord on Sept 20, 2013 22:24:19 GMT -8
Chris, fabulous find. Perhaps it will stick around given the less than ideal migrating weather. I think the one in 2010 was seen on the eve of a clear night which is good migrating conditions. Interesting that all of this species have been seen at Island 22. Same for Blackpoll Warbler whose all three records are also from Island 22. Is it because of the birding effort put in at the site or that it's a natural 'trap' for migrants? Maybe a combination of both. A quick ID tip if anyone goes looking tomorrow. Warbling Vireos can be brightest in the fall but even the most bright do not have yellow concentrated on the throat and breast as the one Chris saw. This is an example of a bright individual. Even still, the yellow fades at the throat and breast to where it should be strongest on a Philadelphia as a key field mark.   Reading about the species some paler Philadelphia Vireos can be overlooked as bright Warbling Vireos especially with not the best of looks. Warbling Vireos that occur out in the west tend to be brighter which makes things even more fun. Pictures of the two previous Philadelphia Vireos at the link below. www.fraservalleybirding.com/Species/Bird%20Accounts/Philadelphia%20Vireo.htmSpeaking of birds a little late to be hanging around there was a Swainson'S Thrush calling back to me a few times. |
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Post by Gord on Sept 21, 2013 22:26:11 GMT -8
Looked around a little bit this morning but no luck. Len and Diane also were checking. It was quite windy which did not help as it is harder to find/hear the birds and the falling leaves also add to the complexity. I did note a Hammond's Flycatcher and Orange-crowned Warbler as well as two Common Yellowthroat. Yellow-rumped Warbler numbers continue to rise and I saw the most Ruby-crowned Kinglets of the fall today as well.
Still possible it is around though. Nice seeing you, Len and Diane.
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Post by oldfulica on Sept 22, 2013 7:47:59 GMT -8
Looked around a little bit this morning but no luck. Len and Diane also were checking. It was quite windy which did not help as it is harder to find/hear the birds and the falling leaves also add to the complexity. I did note a Hammond's Flycatcher and Orange-crowned Warbler as well as two Common Yellowthroat. Yellow-rumped Warbler numbers continue to rise and I saw the most Ruby-crowned Kinglets of the fall today as well. Still possible it is around though. Nice seeing you, Len and Diane. Always a pleasure Gord. Lots of little birds flitting around but we didn't have any luck with the Vireo. We can add Townsend's Warbler to your list; 
Hammond's Flycatcher 
Townsend's Warbler  Golden-crowned Kinglet |
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Post by murraybrown on Sept 25, 2013 8:27:01 GMT -8
Chris, congratulations on a very significant find. That place has so much potential it makes you wonder what other rarities await us.
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