Early news of this year’s Cahow nesting season suggests at least 98 breeding pairs (JM). Two immature Northern Gannets were seen in many locations but appeared to favour the Great Sound mid-Dec-28 Feb+ (WF). The first returning White-tailed Tropicbird was recorded off Church Bay 3 Feb (AD). A Magnificent Frigatebird was in Hamilton Harbour 8-10 Feb (PB). A Glossy Ibis was present in the Somerset area to 28 Feb+ (AD). A Northern Harrier was on the Airport to 28 Feb+ (PA). A single Snow Goose was present at Belmont GC 26 Dec-Feb 28+ (AD) and also Lukes Farm 22 Jan-Feb 28+ (AD). Three Canada Geese were in various locations 29 Nov-Feb 28+ (NM). Seventeen species of ducks were recorded during the winter season including seven Gadwall (16 Jan-28 Feb+), a male Eurasian Wigeon 16 Jan-28 Feb+ (DG) and single Goldeneye at Mangrove Lake and Port Royal GC. Two American Golden-Plovers were on the Airport 2-5 Jan (DBW). A Piping Plover was on Grape Bay 24 Dec-2 Jan (AD). A record number of Killdeer wintered with 504 recorded on 2 Jan (AD et al). Two Red-tailed Hawks remained in Bermuda to 28 Feb+. A single Dunlin was at Spittal Pond 2 Jan (AD), while two were at the Airport 5-15 Jan (DBW). A Black-tailed Gull, the first record for Bermuda, was present in the Great Sound/Mangrove Bay area 8 Jan-28 Feb+(PH) but often elusive. At least three Black-headed Gulls were present to 28 Feb+. A wing-tagged Ring-billed Gull 16 Dec-Feb 28+ (AD) was banded in Massachusetts. A first winter Iceland Gull was at Dockyard 11-15 Jan (AD). Two Forster’s Terns were in Harrington Sound 14 Dec- 9 Jan. A Common Tern was in Harrington Sound to early Jan. A White-winged Dove, the third record for Bermuda, was seen in the Smith’s Hill 2 Jan (JM). A Yellow-billed Cuckoo was at Ferry Point Park 26 Dec-2 Jan (PW). A wintering Ruby-throated Hummingbird was still present in a Smith’s Parish garden to 28 Feb+ (KR). A single Hermit Thrush was at Morgan’s Point 15 Jan (AD, DW). A Brown Creeper discovered in Nov was still present 13 Feb (NM). Two Golden-crowned Kinglets were present on Morgan’s Point 2-15 Jan (AD, DW). Two American Pipits in the West End 27 Dec (PH) were the first of an impressive 112 noted. Of 21 species of warbler recorded during the period, the most unusual was a Kentucky Warbler at Mid-Ocean GC 15 Jan (DW). Few Snow Buntings were noted this year with up to three in Dockyard and one at Ferry Point Park. A Brown-headed Cowbird was discovered at Westover Farm 2-4 Jan (PH). A White-winged Crossbill was at Cooper’s Island NR 16 Jan (NM). Common Redpolls were seen at Paget Marsh, 3 on 1 Jan (AD), Ferry Point (3) 16 Jan (AD, DW) and Spittal Pond (10) 27 Feb (PW).

Observers: Peter Adhemar, Paul Breen, Andrew Dobson, Wendy Frith, Derek Gibbons, Peter Hopkin, Jeremy Madeiros, Neal Morris, Keith Rossiter, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, David Wingate (DBW).

March to July 2011

Highlights of the reporting period include: the first summering record of Ring-necked Duck; continued Cahow breeding success; rarely seen Audubon’s Shearwater; a record four South Polar Skuas; and Bermuda’s third record of Whip-poor-Will.

A male Wood Duck summered on Mid-Ocean/Tucker’s Point G.C. to 4 July (GB). A male Eurasian Wigeon was present 23 Jan (Jubilee Road) to 27 Feb (Spittal Pond) (DBW). Two Ring-necked Ducks on Tucker’s Point G.C. provided the first summer record for Bermuda. The male was last seen 27 June and had been banded on 5 Mar 2008 in Skaneateles, Onondaga Count, New York. The female was still present 9 Jul (AD). The Cahow breeding population continues to increase, with the number of nesting pairs (producing an egg and/or chick) at a new record of 98, which is 6 more than last year, and a record number of 57 successfully fledged chicks, 5 more than last year. This includes 4 chicks successfully fledged from the new colony at Nonsuch Island. Three chicks which had been prematurely abandoned by their parents were starving and had to be taken into care, of which two did not make it, and one was nursed back to health and recovered enough to successfully fledge out to sea (JM). Cory’s Shearwaters were moving at 100+ per hour off Cooper’s Point 6 Mar (PW). A Great Shearwater was photographed flying around the National Stadium floodlights at night 30 Jun (CB). This bird was obviously dis-orientated by the bright lights. Sooty Shearwater passage peaked at 70 per hour off Devonshire Bay 18 May (AD). An Audubon’s Shearwater was picked up at 9-Beaches Resort 5 May (NP) and after being checked at the Bermuda Aquarium Museum and Zoo was released into a burrow on Green Island. It remained overnight and flew off the following day. It represents only the 3^rd or 4^th record since the species was extirpated as a Bermuda breeding bird in the early 1980s. One of the two wintering Northern Gannets was last seen 9 Mar (PW). A Lesser Yellowlegs at Seymour’s Pond 7 Jul was the first returning fall shorebird (DW). Three Whimbrel remained at Stocks Harbour to 8 July (PW). A late White-rumped Sandpiper was at Tucker’s Point G.C. 26 Jun (AD). A female Wilson’s Phalarope was on Spittal Pond 4-7 June (BB). An adult Black-headed Gull in St. Georges Harbour 26-28 Apr (PW) was the first spring record for Bermuda. Two Laughing Gulls, one at Ferry Reach and one at Flatts Inlet were seen the 18 Jun (JM). Bermuda’s first Black-tailed Gull was last seen 28 Apr (PH). Arctic Tern passage peaked in mid-May with 12 passing Devonshire Bay 18 May (AD). Two Forster’s Terns were seen south of Bermuda at N31 39, W064 09 on 16 Jun (DBW). Four South Polar Skuas were seen 30 miles south-west of Bermuda 16 May (DBW). Seven Pomarine Jaegers were seen off Cooper’s Point 23 Apr (AD, PH). Single Swallow-tailed Kites were seen over Devonshire and Smiths 21-25 Mar (PHo) and Botanical Gardens 14-15 Apr (LM). A Yellow-billed Cuckoo was in Hamilton 16April (PW). A Whip-poor-Will was flushed at Stokes Point N.R. 4 Mar (DBW), only the 3^rd Bermuda record. A wintering Ruby-throated Hummingbird in Smiths was last seen 18 Mar (KR). A Yellow-bellied Sapsucker on Nonsuch Island 17-19 Jun (JM) provided the first June record for this species. The same bird may also have been seen a few days later at Walsingham. A Downy Woodpecker was a surprise find on St. Georges G.C. 1 Mar (PW). The latest ever record of Tree Swallow was at Spittal Pond 19 June (DBW). An American Robin was on St. Georges G.C. 13 Mar (PW). A partially leucistic Grey Catbird was at Elbow Beach Hotel 4-11 Jun (BB). A Summer Tanager was in St. David’s 8-9 Apr (WS). A Prairie Warbler returned to Hinson’s Island for a second summer and was last heard singing 26 Jun (JH). A Red-winged Blackbird was near Pembroke Marsh 22 Mar (PW).

Observers: Geoff Bell, Bart Brown, Andrew Dobson, Janice Hetzel, Peter Holmes (PHo), Peter Hopkin (PH), Jeremy Madeiros, Leila Madeiros, Nigel Pollard, Keith Rossiter, Wolfgang Sterrer, David Wallace, Paul Watson, David Wingate (DBW).

August to November 2011

Highlights of the fall period in Bermuda have included: the first record of Hairy Woodpecker; the third record of Fork-tailed Flycatcher; fourth record of Wood Sandpiper; sixth record of Garganey; significant fall-out of shorebirds and an unprecedented number of Yellow-billed Cuckoos.

Petrels to Terns

Pelagic trips in November produced a record count of 28 Cahows at sea 25 Nov (HS). These trips also produced Bermuda’s first ever fall records of Great Shearwater obtained 19 (DBW) and 21 Nov. Also recorded 21 Nov were Cory’s Shearwater (2) and Leach’s Storm-Petrel (AD, BF, HS, DBW). A Masked Booby was seen 5 miles off Bermuda 21 Aug and an imm. 17 Nov (DBW). An ad. White Ibis first seen flying over St Georges GC, 2 Oct (PW) was seen in various locations to 22 Oct. An imm. White Ibis at Cooper’s Island, 4 Oct (DP) was seen at various locations to 30 Nov+. A Northern Harrier was at Ferry Point, 25 Sep (NM). A Garganey, the 6^th record for Bermuda, was discovered at Cloverdale, 21-23 Oct and present Devonshire Marsh to 19 Nov (AD, DW). A Sharp-shinned Hawk was seen at Spittal Pond, 12 Oct (BF). An imm. Purple Gallinule was at Parson’s Road Pond, 12 Oct (NM) with a second at Somerset Long Bay NR 23- Oct (PH). Bermuda witnessed one of the best fall-outs of shorebirds seen for many years. Over 100 American Golden-Plover were present at the Airport and Port Royal GC, 17 Sep (AD, PW). During Sep record numbers of Semipalmated Sandpipers were recorded – with estimates of over 1,000 birds. Counts of over 100 birds were common on golf courses and farms. Two Piping Plover were at Horseshoe Bay, 12 Sep (LM). Bermuda’s fourth Wood Sandpiper was at Warwick Pond 12 Nov (AD, PW). Four Willet at Ferry Point Park, 17 Sep were unusual (AD). A Eurasian Whimbrel was at Port Royal GC 28 Aug-21 Sep (NM). A Hudsonian Godwit was discovered at Port Royal GC, 17-24 Sep (NM). A Red Knot was present on Port Royal GC, 10-28 Sep (AD) and another at Mangrove Bay, 4 Dec (DW). A record 180 Pectoral Sandpipers were seen in the west end on 15 Sep as T.S. Maria passed (DBW). A Ruff was on Mid-Ocean GC, 29-30 Sep (AD, PW). A Wilson’s Phalarope was at Spittal Pond, 17 Sep (TW). A Great Skua was 5 miles off Bermuda 19 Nov (DBW). A Roseate Tern was noted amongst 50 Common Terns in Harrington Sound, 3 Sep (DBW). Two Least Terns were seen roosting at the Airport with American Golden Plovers 4 Sep (DBW). A Black Tern (JM) with a flock of Common Terns (20+) in Castle Harbour, 4 Sep (JM) was re-located in St. Georges Harbour 5 Sep (PW). Following T.S. Maria on 15 Sep., tern passage peaked on 16 Sep with Sandwich (3), Roseate (2), Common (100), Arctic (1) and Forster’s Terns (2) all in Harrington Sound (PW). In Castle Harbour, there were additionally Common (4), Least (6) and Black Tern (2) (JM). A pelagic trip off Bermuda produced an imm. Brown Noddy 17 Aug and an imm. Sooty Tern 18 Aug (DBW). Another Brown Noddy was seen at Ferry Point, 23 Oct (PW).

Cuckoos to Sparrows

During the first week of October there was a massive fall-out of 1000+ Yellow-billed Cuckoos. Birders and members of the public reported them from all over the island including the business district of the City of Hamilton. Bermuda has experienced falls of cuckoos before, but the number on this occasion was unprecedented. There were reports of “ten cuckoos in one tree” and flocks of up to 20 cuckoos feeding on fairways of golf courses. One small pumpkin field held 30+ cuckoos. Golf courses provided easy observation of the birds where they didn’t appear exhausted but were actively feeding and approachable. The event might be explained by hurricane Ophelia which passed 120 nautical miles to the east as a category 4 storm on 1 Oct. A likely migrant Barn Owl was mobbed by 4 American Crows at Lovers Lake, 17 Sep (DBW). The only Chimney Swift recorded this year was over Wreck Hill 26-27 Oct (DBW). The first of three Ruby-throated Hummingbirds was discovered at Coral Beach Club, 18 Oct-14 Nov (PH). Two were seen there the following day and thanks to numerous photos, a third was confirmed 22 Oct. One was present to 11 Nov (AD). A Hairy Woodpecker, the first record for Bermuda was seen at St Georges GC 30 Oct (PW). This may well have been the result of the very early snow storm in the US. A Northern Flicker was seen at the Alfred Blackburn Smith NR, 19 Oct (AD) and a second discovered on Mid-Ocean GC 20-28 Nov (GB). A Yellow-bellied Flycatcher was seen at Government House, 20 Oct (RG). A Least Flycatcher was seen at Tudor Farm, 6 Oct (PH). A Great Crested Flycatcher was a good find at Springfield NR, 2-4 Oct (AD). BIOS hosted a Grey Kingbird 23 Sep (PW) with another on Wreck Road, 7 Oct (WF). A Fork-tailed Flycatcher was photographed (NM) 5 Sep at Kindley Field, the third confirmed record for Bermuda. A Ruby-crowned Kinglet was on St Georges GC, 8 Oct (DBW). A Northern Wheatear was discovered on Port Royal GC, 1 Oct (WF). Single Veery were seen at St Georges GC 2 Oct (PW) and Wreck Road 6 Oct (WF). A small passage of Swainson’s Thrushes occurred in the first week of October with one at Coral Beach Club 3 Oct (AD); four seen in one tree in the Arboretum, 4 Oct (DW); three on Wreck Road 6 Oct (DW) and Morgan’s Point 8 Oct (AD). Single Warbling Vireos were at Wreck Road 10 Oct (WF) and Ferry Point Park 15 Oct (AD). One Philadelphia Vireo was seen at Fort Scaur, 9 Oct (DBW). At least 36 species of warbler were recorded during the season in Bermuda. The highlights being Golden-winged Warbler at Coral Beach Club 10 Oct (AD), Cerulean Warbler at St Georges GC 8 Oct (DBW), Swainson’s Warbler at Port Royal GC 11 Sep (AD), Connecticut Warbler at Ferry Point 9 Oct (PW) and Yellow-breasted Chat off Wreck Road 21 Oct (AD). A Dickcissel was on St Georges GC, 8 Oct (DBW). A Grasshopper Sparrow was at Alton Hill, 20 Oct (DW). A Swamp Sparrow was at Ferry Point Park, Bermuda 9 Oct (PW). The only White-crowned Sparrows were at Wreck Road 10 Oct (WF) and Mid-Ocean GC 12 Oct (AD).

Observers: Geoff Bell, Andrew Dobson, Bob Flood, Wendy Frith, Richard Gozney, Peter Hopkin, Jeremy Madeiros, Leila Madeiros, Neal Morris, Drew Pettit, Hadoram Shirihai, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, Tim White, David Wingate (DBW).

Decmber 2011

Highlight of the month was undoubtedly the discovery of Bermuda’s secod MacGillivray’s Warbler

A Northern Gannet was seen off Warwick Long Bay 30 Dec (RP). Single American Bitterns were seen at Pebroke Marsh 27 Dec (NM) and Mid-Ocean GC 28 Dec (AD). A Least Bittern was on Mid-Ocean GC 29 Dec (GB). The immature White Ibis remained at Spittal Pond to Dec 31+ (AD). The long-staying Garganey was still present in Devonshire Marsh to 27 Dec (BL, JT). A Hooded Merganser was at Pembroke Marsh 3 Dec-31 Dec+ (NM). At least one Osprey was present at various locations throughout Dec. (AD). A Peregrine Falcon was seen at various locations in Dec (JM, DBW et al). Two Greater Yellowlegs and two Lesser Yellowlegs were present at Port Royal GC and Spittal Pond throughout the month (AD). A Red Knot was at Mangrove Bay 5 Dec (DW). A record number of Sanderling (28) was at Grape Bay 6 Dec (AD). A first winter Iceland Gull was at various locations 22-27 Dec (JM). Three Yellow-billed Cukoos were found wintering together in the Smith’s Hills 27 Dec (JM). A Nighthawk sp. was seen over St. Georges GC 29 Dec (PW). Single Eastern Phoebes were at Spittal Pond and Botanical Gardens 14 Dec (AD, NM). A Ruby-crowned Kinglet was seen in the Smith’s Hills 27 Dec (JM). A Swainson’s Thrush was seen in St. Georges 27 Dec (PW). A Hermit Thrush was seen at Morgan’s Point 6 Dec (DW). An American Robin at was at Government House 6-16 Dec (RG). A Swainson’s Warbler was seen at Morgan’s Point 6 Dec (DW). A MacGillivray’s Warbler was at Spittal Pond 27-31 Dec (AD, RG, KR). A Swamp Sparrow was seen at Devonshire Marsh 11 Dec (AD) and 27 Dec (JM). A Blue Grosbeak was seen on Port Royal GC 27 Dec (PH, NP).

Observers: Geoff Bell, Andrew Dobson, Richard Gozney, Peter Hopkin, Bruce Lorhan, Jeremy Madeiros, Neal Morris, Ron Porter, Natasha Power, Keith Rossiter, James Tatem, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, David Wingate (DBW).

Bird Report 2010

Andrew Dobson

January to May 2010

Highlights of the reporting period included Bermuda’s first Eastern Towhee, the fourth record of Black Swift, an influx of Swallow-tailed Kites (which was mirrored in the Bahamas), a wreck of Atlantic Puffins and the fifth record of Garganey (one of three Old World duck species to be reported).

Geese to Puffins

A record four Canada Geese wintered in Bermuda including one bird banded in Quebec 8 Jul 09 (AD). Four Gadwall were at Warwick Pond/Devonshire Marsh 18 Feb-21 Mar (AD). A female Eurasian Wigeon was at Marsh Lane, 31 Dec- 12 Jan (JM) and a male was at Spittal Pond 20-23 Feb (PW). A stunning male Garganey was on Warwick Pond 11-18 Apr (KK). A male Eurasian Teal was at Jubilee Road 5-12 Mar (PW). The first returning White-tailed Tropicbird was noted at Spittal Pond 2 Feb (KR). An immature Northern Gannet was on Spittal Pond 9 Mar (TW) but was found dead the following day, while a third found at St. Davids 17 Mar (LG) later died. Glossy Ibis arrived at Spittal Pond 7 Mar (AD) and one bird was seen in various locations to at least 1 June (DW). A Swallow-tailed Kite at Spittal Pond 2 Mar (KR) was to herald an unprecedented influx of up to nine birds to mid-May. A Northern Harrier was at Spittal Pond 21 Feb (AD). A Sharp-shinned Hawk was over Port’s Is. 6 Mar (AD). The two long-staying Red-tailed Hawks were present the whole year (AD). A Peregrine Falcon was still at various locations through the spring period (CB, JM et al). A Purple Gallinule was found at Pembroke Marsh and taken into care at BAMZ 13 Jan (AD). Two Piping Plovers wintered at Cooper’s Point and one was present to 1 Apr (AD). A Stilt Sandpiper was at North Pond 6 May (PW). Single Red Phalaropes were seen off-shore 25 Apr (CB) and mid-May (DBW). A Black-legged Kittiwake was at Nonsuch Is. 21 Jan (JM) and another at Astwood Park 10 Feb (AD) was taken into care but died in captivity. A Black-headed Gull was in Hamilton Harbour 3 Jan-15 Feb (AD). Bermuda also had a record number of 53 Lesser Black-backed Gulls 23 Jan (AD, PW). The first returning Common Tern was noted at Flatt’s Inlet 30 Mar (AD). A flock of 20+ Arctic Terns was seen migrating off the South Shore 24 May (AD). A Skua sp was photographed off-shore on 17 May (AS). A Pomarine Jaeger was photographed off-shore 25 Apr (CB). Five Atlantic Puffins were washed up on beaches in the West End 7 Feb (JG et al) perhaps indicative of a serious die-off at sea. A Ring-necked Turtle-Dove of unknown origin was seen at Cooper’s Is. 17-23Apr (AD). Cuckoos are never common in the spring, but both Yellow-billed Cuckoo at North Pond (PW) and Black-billed Cuckoo at Spittal Pond 6 May (PW) were recorded. A Short-eared Owl was seen at Bermuda Airport 9 Jan (AD). A Common Nighthawk was over Warwick 24 Apr (AD). Bermuda’s 4th record of Black Swift was well observed at Prospect 31 May (PW). A single Chimney Swift was at Great Head Park 25 Apr (PW) with five over Spittal Pond 5 May (AD). A Ruby-throated Hummingbird was on Wreck Road 1 Dec-1 Jan (WF). A Northern Flicker was drinking at a garden birdbath in Tamarind Vale 13 Dec (A&SC). One Eastern Phoebe was at Coral Beach Club 31 Dec-1 Jan (AD). Two Western Kingbirds were at Spittal Pond 12 Dec- 4 Jan (TW). A Grey Kingbird was at Spittal Pond 2-5 May (KR). Two Blue-headed Vireos were on Morgan’s Point 31 Dec (EA). The first Purple Martin of the spring was at Cooper’s Is. 20 Feb (EA). A Tree Swallow over-wintered at Bermuda Airport (AD). Bermuda’s first Eastern Towhee was seen at Ferry Point Park 4 Apr (PW), almost certainly the same bird that was thought to be a towhee near Fort St. Catherine in early Jan (PW). Two Grey-cheeked Thrushes were seen at Stokes Point NR 1-2 May (DBW) and another at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences 2 May (AD, PW). A Wood Thrush was in Jenningsland 24 Dec-1 Jan (JM). An American Pipit was seen at Grape Bay 3 Jan (DW). A late Prairie Warbler 22 May (BL) was in the same Fairylands garden as one in June 2009. The (same) bird also attacked its reflection in a car wing mirror. A Blackpoll Warbler was at Fort Scaur 28 May (WF). A Yellow-breasted Chat was on Morgan’s Point 31 Dec (EA). A Fox Sparrow was at Morgan’s Point 16 Jan (AD). Three Snow Buntings were on the Castle Harbour Islands 1 Dec-21 Jan (JM). A Summer Tanager was also on Wreck Road 1 Jan (AD). A Dickcissel was at Ireland Is. 12 Mar (WF). Two Bobolinks were at Stokes Point NR 1 May (DBW). A Brown-headed Cowbird was at Spittal Pond 5-6 May (DW).

Observers: Eric Amos, Chris Burville, Andrew and Sonia Cox, Andrew Dobson, Wendy Frith, Jennifer Gray, Lisa Greene, Peter Hopkin, Karen Kardell, Bruce Lorhan, Jeremy Madeiros, Ron Porter, Keith Rossiter, Andrew Stevenson, James Tatham, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, Tim White, David Wingate

June-July 2010

The last Cahow chick departed on 27/28 June. Another record breaking season in which 93 confirmed nesting pairs produced 51 successful fledglings. Summering herons included a Snowy Egret and Little Blue Heron at Spittal Pond (AD). An adult Spotted Sandpiper at Saltus Island 2 Jul (PH) was the first fall shorebird. Common Terns had a poor breeding season due mainly to rat predation. A total of 6 pairs fledged 9 chicks (DBW). A flock of Northern Shovelers (20) flew over St. Georges 4 Jul (JR). A Prairie Warbler still singing until at least 27 June (JH) on Hinson's Island represented the latest summer record of any warbler species in Bermuda. A Northern Waterthrush at Tucker's Town Bay 26 Jul (JM) was the first fall warbler.

August-December 2010

Hurricane Igor 19 September was the main weather event of the season, probably resulting in Bermuda’s first White-winged Black Tern and fourth Little Egret. Several Magnificent Frigatebirds arrived ahead of the storm. Other highlights included the first record of a pair of Downy Woodpeckers in Bermuda (there have been very few previous sightings), the first Brown Creeper since 1992 and a record number of Red-breasted Nuthatches and Northern Mockingbirds. There were the first ever winter records of both Franklin’s Gull and Bridled Tern.

A Northern Gannet found at Pilchard Bay 12 Nov (AN) was taken into care and released after two days. Just prior to Hurricane Igor there were three sightings of Magnificent Frigatebird: Ferry Reach (PW) 17-18 Sep, Mangrove Bay (PH) and St. Davids (R&KL) 18 Sep. A Magnificent Frigatebird was also over Harrington Sound 20-21 Oct (AD). A Least Bittern was suspected of having over-summered at Paget Marsh and was last seen 14 Oct (AD, RG). A Little Egret was seen at Edward Gibbons NR 21 Sep and remained on the island to 25 Sep (AD). One Canada Goose at Parsons Road 27 Nov was joined by another 31 Dec+ (AD). An exhausted Brant was at Spittal Pond 16 Oct (DBW) and was found dead the next day. A single Snow Goose arrived at Belmont GC 26 Dec (AD). A Common Goldeneye 14 Nov at S.Princess Pond probably re-located to Mangrove Lake 22-31 Dec+ (PW). A male Long-tailed Duck at Spittal Pond 16-29 Dec (NM). A Ruddy Duck was found at Tucker’s Point GC 12 Nov-Dec 31+ (DW). A Virginia Rail was seen at Pembroke Marsh 9 Dec (NM) and another was found injured 14 Dec and taken to BAMZ but later died. A Sharp-shinned Hawk was over the Talbot Estate 23 Sep (AD), one of seven bird of prey species seen in the fall. Of the less commonly occurring shorebird species, single Piping Plovers were at Cooper’s Is 19 Aug (RG) and on Warwick Long Bay 28 Aug-5 Sep (LM). Single Willets were at Spittal Pond 28 Aug (AD) and over Nonsuch Is. 23 Sep (JM). A Curlew Sandpiper was on North Pond 4 Oct (DW). A Red Knot was seen at Port Royal GC 9-12 Dec (AD). A Franklin’s Gull was present at Port Royal GC 1-11 Dec (DBW). One 1^st winter Black-headed Gull in Hamilton Harbour 2 Nov (PW) was seen with an adult bird at Tucker’s Point GC 22 Nov (PW). A wing-tagged Ring-billed Gull 16-31 Dec + was banded in Massachusetts. A Least Tern 8 Sep was joined by two others in Harrington Sound 10 Sep accompanied by 50+ Common Terns (PH). Two Forster’s Terns were in Harrington Sound 14-31 Dec+. A Bridled Tern found exhausted on Port Royal GC 14 Dec died in captivity at BAMZ. A Sooty Tern was found exhausted on a Devonshire roof and died in captivity at BAMZ (SC). Bermuda’s first White-winged Black Tern was identified by DBW 30 Sep. It was present on Port Royal GC 29 Sep-4 Oct. A Yellow-billed Cuckoo was at Ferry Point Park 26 Dec-2 Jan (PW). A Short-eared Owl was at Spittal Pond 28-30 Dec (AD). Two hummingbirds (probably Ruby-throated) were seen at Hog Bay Park 2 Sep (JR). A Ruby-throated Hummingbird in Smiths was present 31 Dec+ (J&K L). A male Downy Woodpecker was discovered in the Botanical Gardens 14 Nov (DW). A female was photographed 17 Nov (AD) and two were seen together 18 Nov (PH). The male excavated two holes in a camphor tree and the last sighting was 27 Nov. This is the first record of Downy Woodpecker for 20 years and the first time more than one bird has been seen together. There are at least 8 previous records. An Eastern Phoebe was on Mid-Ocean GC 3-9 Nov (DBW). Great Crested Flycatcher was in Riddell’s Bay mangroves 8 Sep (AD). A Grey Kingbird was at Lukes Farm 29 Aug (NM, PH). Single Red-breasted Nuthatches were seen at Cambridge Beaches 16 Oct (MH), Ferry Point 2-5 Nov (DBW), Paget Is 3 Nov (DBW) and the A.B. Smith N.R. 22 Nov (DW). This is a record number for any year. A Brown Creeper was seen at Ferry Reach 6 Nov-31 Dec+ (NM). A flock of four Golden-crowned Kinglets on Morgan’s Point 21 Nov (AD) was most unusual. A Veery was at BIOS 12 Sep (AD, DW). A Grey-cheeked Thrush was on Wreck Road 16 Oct (AD). Northern Mockingbirds were seen at Harrington Sound 19-20 Sep (PA), St. Georges 7 Oct (GO), Government House 17 Oct (RG) and Tudor Hill 18 Nov (DW) creating a record number in any year. An American Pipit was on Riddell’s Bay GC 13 Oct (DW). Thirty-six warbler species were recorded during the season. Notable records included: Golden-winged Warblers at Coney Is. 11 Sep (DBW) and Heydon Trust 14 Oct (AD); a late Yellow Warbler in Botanical Gardens 16 Nov (PW); two early Blackpoll Warblers on Wreck Road 31 Aug (WF); single Cerulean Warblers at Wreck Road 31 Aug- 3 Sep (WF) and Ferry Point 8 Sep (DBW); a Swainson’s Warbler in Riddell’s Bay mangroves 6 Sep (AD); a Louisiana Waterthrush at Mangrove Lake 4-5 Sep (DBW); a Mourning Warbler at Talbot Estate 9 Sep (AD); and single Yellow-breasted Chats at Wreck Hill 7 Nov and Alton Hill 14 Nov (PH). Dark-eyed Juncos were seen at Cooper’s Point 11 Nov (AD) and Lagoon Park 13 Nov (DW). Snow Buntings were seen at a number of locations including 3 at the Maritime Museum 13 Nov (DW). An imm. Red-winged Blackbird was at Hungry Bay 7 Nov (DG). An Eastern Meadowlark was on Port Royal GC 6 Oct (R&K Latter). A Brown-headed Cowbird flew over Botanical Gardens 14 Nov (PW). Three Common Redpolls were at Cooper’s Point 13 Nov (PH).

Observers: Peter Adhemar, Stephen Barton, Stephen Copeland, Andrew Dobson, Wendy Frith, Derek Gibbons, Richard Gozney, Marya Halderman, Janice Hetzel, Junior Hill, Peter Hopkins, Ray & Kay Latter, Jade & Keith Lovell, Jeremy Madeiros, Leila Madeiros, Natasha Merino, Neal Morris, Anson Nash, Gillian Outerbridge, Jill Raine,Keith Rossiter, Tim White, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, David Wingate (DBW).

Bird Report 2009

Andrew Dobson

January to May 2009

Highlight of the report is the hatching of the first Cahow on Nonsuch Island since about 1620. The hatching took place about 21 Mar. Notable bird sightings include the second record of Common Greenshank (an Old World shorebird) and a spring Horned Lark.

This year not only produced the first Cahow chick on Nonsuch Island since the early 17^th century, but it promises to be another record year with about 90 breeding pairs and 47 confirmed chicks to date. Shearwater migration started 27 Feb with one Cory’s and 3 Manx off Watch Hill Park (AD). The Northern Gannet was seen various locations to 28 Feb (EA, AD). A Brown Pelican was at various locations 10-14 Apr (JF). An imm. Black-crowned Night-Heron was at Spittal Pond 24 Oct-23 Feb (PW). A White Ibis was at Spittal Pond 31 Jan-21 Feb (KR). Five Snow Geese wintered and two were present until 10 Apr at Port Royal GC (AD). The island’s first Ross's Goose was present at Belmont GC to 7 May (AD). Two Canada Goose wintered and one was present at Belmont GC 14 May (DBW). Six Wood Ducks were at Port Royal GC 26 Nov-2 Jan (DW). The long-staying male Eurasian Wigeon was present to at least 18 Jan in Harrington Sound (AD). A female American Wigeon was on North Pond 28 Apr (DBW). A drake Northern Shoveler was at Spittal Pond 23-25 May (DBW). Wintering Northern Pintail peaked six at Spittal Pond 2 Feb (EA). Record flocks of Ring-necked Duck (19) and Lesser Scaup (23) wintered at Mangrove Lake (AD). Two Buffleheads wintered at various locations (DW). A record 21 Hooded Merganser were seen at various locations Jan-Mar (DW). A Common Merganser was at Mangrove Lake 27 Dec-1 Mar (PA). The long-staying Red-tailed Hawks were present to at least 21 May (DBW). One American Golden-Plover was with Black-bellied Plover at the airport 27 Dec-18 Jan (DBW). Two Piping Plovers wintered in Bermuda, at Ariel Sands and Cooper’s Island. (AD). A Black-necked Stilt was at Spittal Pond 4-12 Apr (KR). A Common Greenshank was discovered at Spittal Pond 23-28 May (DBW). This is the only Bermuda record other than a single-observer sight record in 1960. One Lesser Yellowlegs was present at Spittal Pond to at least 7 Mar (AD). A Eurasian Whimbrel was on Stocks Harbour mudflat 11-12 Mar (EA). A flock of 19 Sanderling wintered. (AD). Single Pomarine Jaegers were seen at Challenger Banks 26 Apr and 3 May (AD, PH). A Laughing Gull was at Dockyard 19 May (DBW). Wintering Black-headed Gulls peaked at 7 in the Great Sound 5 Jan (PW). One was present to at least 23 Mar (JM). An Iceland Gull was present in the East End 3– 30 Mar (AD). A dying Black-legged Kittiwake was taken to BAMZ 3 Mar (DBW). A Royal Tern was in Castle Harbour 14-21 Apr (JM). Five Arctic Terns were off the west end of Bermuda 3 May (AD, DBW). A Forster’s Tern was seen 1-5 Jan in the Great Sound (AD). A moribund Atlantic Puffin was found on Nonsuch Is beach 24 Feb (JF). A Yellow-billed Cuckoo was at East End dairy 11 Apr (PW). A Ruby-throated Hummingbird was seen in Botanical Gardens 2 Jan (AD, FD), while another visited a Southdown Farm garden 11 Mar-15 Apr (SI). A Northern Flicker was seen at Morgan’s Point 8 Mar (AD, DW). A Western Kingbird was seen at Lover’s Lake 18 Jan (DW). Single Eastern Kingbirds were at the airport 12 Apr (PW) and Jenningsland 17 Apr (JM). Two Red-eyed Vireos were at Clearwater 19 Apr (PW). Two American Pipits in the West End 27 Dec (PH) were the first of an impressive 112 noted. A Horned Lark was at Commissioner’s House, Dockyard 8-19 May (RG). A late flock of 16 Tree Swallows was at the East End dairy 10 Dec (DO) with at least 20 remaining into Mar (AD). Two Northern Rough-winged Swallows were at Cloverdale 2 Jan and various locations to 28 Feb (DW). Single Wood Thrushes were seen at Ferry Point Park 18 Jan (AD, DW) and Wreck Road mangroves 29 Jan (AD). A Summer Tanager remained at Jenningsland 14 Dec-4 Feb (JM). A Scarlet Tanager was at Paget Marsh 25 Apr (RGr). A flock of 18 Snow Buntings was present at he Airport 27 Dec-18 Jan (DBW). Two Blue Grosbeaks were on St. George’s GC 24 Apr (PW) and another at Cooper’s Is 26 Apr (DBW). A Dickcissel was seen at Boaz Is 4 Jan (PH). A Red-winged Blackbird was in Mills Creek/Point Shares area 19 Feb-9 Apr (JT). Two Common Redpolls were at Spittal Pond 10 Feb (PW, KR, SB).

June to July 2009

A probable Grey Heron was reported from the former Sonesta Hotel site, Bermuda 17 Jun (EA). The long-staying male Eurasian Wigeon was present to 31 Jul+ on Spittal Pond, Bermuda (EA). A Peregrine Falcon was seen in Bermuda over Hamilton 14 Jun (PA) and near the Whaler Inn 1 Jul (DBW). Two Red-tailed Hawks were seen at Morgan’s Point, Bermuda throughout the period (AD). The Common Greenshank which arrived 23 May departed Spittal Pond, Bermuda 1 June (KR). Shorebirds in Bermuda in June included three Semipalmated Plovers 11 Jun at Spanish Point (EA), two Black-necked Stilts 18-25 Jun at various locations (DG), two Semipalmated Sandpipers 25Jun at St. Georges Dairy (EA) and a Solitary Sandpiper at Devonshire Marsh 30 Jun - 2 Jul (DW). The first Bermuda fall migrant shorebirds noted in July included one Lesser Yellowlegs at Devonshire Marsh 10 Jul (EA) and a Spotted Sandpiper at the same location 15 Jul (EA, DBW). An ad Franklin’s Gull was at Dockyard, Bermuda 9-22 Jun (DBW). A sub-ad summer Franklin’s Gull was at Spittal Pond, Bermuda 26-31 Jul+ (DBW). A Ring-billed Gull stayed until 13 Jun at Dockyard, Bermuda (DBW). A 2^nd year Roseate Tern was at Dockyard, Bermuda 24-26 Jun (AD). In their slow recovery from hurricane Fabian (Bermuda 2003), five pairs of Common Terns raised 12 young (DBW). A Forster’s Tern was at Dockyard, Bermuda 21 Jun (PH). Early swallows were 6 Tree Swallows and 2 Cliff Swallows St. Georges Dairy, Bermuda 29 Jul (PW). A Prairie Warbler singing at Point Shares 21 May – 12 Jun was the first summer record in Bermuda (BL). The first fall warbler in Bermuda was a Louisiana Waterthrush on Nonsuch Is. 26 Jul (JM).

August to December 2009

Highlights of the period included the first record of Purple Swamphen in Bermuda and an exceptional eight American Avocets.

A Northern Gannet was seen at various locations 18-31 Dec (RP, PW). A Great Cormorant was in Castle Harbour 24-31 Dec (JM). Highlight Cattle Egrets numbers increased from 24 at the Airport 16 Nov (DW) to 32 island-wide 19 Nov (DW). A Black-crowned Night-Heron was at Somerset Long Bay NR 7 Nov- 31 Dec (AD). A swan sp. was seen flying over Sandys Parish on 13 and 17 Dec (SR and PH). A swan sp. was seen flying over Sandys Parish 13 and 17 Dec (SR and PH). A Canada Goose at Spittal Pond 16-19 Dec was joined both two more 24 Dec (TW). Four Gadwall were at Warwick Pond 18-31 Dec (AD). The long-staying male Eurasian Wigeon was at Spittal Pond 2 Aug (DBW) and a female Eurasian Wigeon was at Marsh Lane 31 Dec (JM). An adult Peregrine was chasing City Hall pigeons 10 Nov (PH). A Northern Harrier was over the Airport/Castle Harbour Islands 9-17 Oct (PA, JM). Bermuda’s first Purple Swamphen was at Bernard Park 26 Oct to 6 Nov (but probably present for at least a week before that)(AD). Two Piping Plovers were at Cooper’s Point 11 Nov (AD) and one was still present to 31 Dec (PW). There had only been eight single records of American Avocet in Bermuda, so when two arrived at Spittal Pond 2 Oct (KR) no-one expected numbers would peak at 8 on Oct 11 with five at Spittal Pond and three at Port Royal GC. One bird lingered to 7 Nov. A Willet was at Port Royal GC 20 Sept (PH). Upland Sandpipers were seen at a number of locations including 5 at the Airport 7 Sep (PW). A Red Knot was at the East end Dairy 12 Sep (AD) and Spittal Pond 21-27 Sep (AD). A Ruff was on Mid-Ocean GC 3 Oct (PW). A Franklin’s Gull was at Spittal Pond 1 Aug (PW). One imm. Least Tern was on a North Channel marker 5 Sep (AD). Not often seen during the day, a Barn Owl was watched at Lover’s Lake 19 Sep (PW) and 9 Oct (GA). A late Chimney Swift was over Horseshoe Dunes 1 Nov (AD). A Ruby-throated Hummingbird was on Wreck Road early Nov-31 Dec+ (WF). A Northern Flicker was drinking at a garden birdbath in Tamarind Vale 13 Dec (A&SC). An Acadian Flycatcher was at Spittal Pond 11-12 Oct (AD). Western Kingbirds were at Lagoon Park 3 Oct (PH), Port Royal GC 12 Oct, St. Georges GC 24 Oct, Spittal Pond 29 Nov (AD) and two 12-31 Dec (TW). A Blue-headed Vireo was at North Pond 14 Oct (AD) and two were on Morgan’s Point 31 Dec (EA). A Warbling Vireo was at Fort Scaur 2 Oct (DW). A Ruby-crowned Kinglet was at Lagoon Park 16 Dec (DW). A Grey-cheecked Thrush was at Springfield 23-25 Oct (WF, PH) and Talbot Estate 31 Oct (AD). A Hermit Thrush was at Lagoon Park 16 Dec (DW). A Wood Thrush was in Jenningsland 24-31 Dec (JM). Single Golden-winged Warblers were at the Arboretum 5-6 Oct and Heydon Trust 25 Oct (AD, DW). A Yellow Warbler was seen at Pembroke Marsh 31 Dec (JT, BL). A Cerulean Warbler was near the East End Dairy 2 Oct (PW). A Kentucky Warbler was at Cemetery Hill 19 Sep (PW) and another at Spittal Pond 31 Dec (AD). A Yellow-breasted Chat was on Morgan’s Point 31 Dec (EA). A Chipping Sparrow was at St. Georges GC 24 Oct and three at Port Royal GC 16 Nov (DW). Clay-coloured Sparrows were reported from Heydon Trust 25-26 Oct (AD) and Wreck Road 11 Nov (WF). A small flock of Savannah Sparrows (5) was at Port Royal 16 Dec (DW). A Grasshopper Sparrow was on the Airport fence 21 Nov (AD). A White-throated Sparrow was reported from Wreck Road 11 Nov (WF). A Snow Bunting was on the Castle Harbour Islands 8 Nov-30 Dec (JM). Single Dickcissels were at Tudor Farm 17 Sep (DW), Lukes Farm and Riddles Bay GC 16 Dec (DW) and Cooper’s Island 31 Dec (PW). A Pine Siskin was a good find at Cooper’s Point 14 Nov (PW).

Observers: Observers: Peter Adhemar, Eric Amos, Gerry Ardis, Stephen Barton, Andrew and Sonia Cox, Andrew Dobson, Fiona Dobson, Wendy Frith, Joe Furbert, Richard Ground (RGr), Diana Gozney, Richard Gozney, Peter Hopkin, Stanley Ingham, Bruce Lorhan, Jeremy Madeiros, David O’Neill, Ron Porter, Susan Roberts,Keith Rossiter, James Tatham, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, Tim White, David Wingate (DBW).

Bird Report 2008

Andrew Dobson

January to May 2008

Highlights in the period included the first record for Purple Sandpiper in Bermuda, the second record of Cave Swallow, a rare sighting of Black Rail, and the first sighting of a Snowy Owl for 20 years.

A pair of Pied-billed Grebes produced five chicks 13 May on the new reserve at Somerset Long Bay (WF). Four Bermuda Petrel chicks which were translocated and fledged from Nonsuch Is. in 2005 returned to prospect on the island in Feb-Apr. It is hoped that they will return to breed next year. This is the first time that birds have returned to Nonsuch Island for nearly 400 years! (JM). Returning White-tailed Tropicbirds were first noted 24 Feb (AD), about a week later than usual. A juv. Brown Pelican was on Pearl Island 26 May (PW). A Great Cormorant roosted at Nonsuch Is. from mid-Feb to May 4 (JM). An American Bittern was flushed from Firefly Reserve 5 Jan (AD, DW). The long-staying Grey Heron was in Tuckers Town Bay 18 Jan (JM). Two Canada Geese were on Port Royal GC 13 Feb (RC) and one remained at North Pond into May, while a Brant (Bermuda’s 9th) was on Tucker’s Point GC 1 Dec-4 Apr (AD). An imm. swan sp. was seen flying over Port Royal GC 14 Jan (DW). Eighteen duck species were recorded during the winter period. A Eurasian Wigeon found in Dec was re-discovered in Harrington Sound 18 Apr, still present 17 May (DBW). A male Eurasian Teal finally revealed itself 20 Jan-2 Mar on Spittal Pond (DBW). A Common Goldeneye was on Parson’s Road Pond 12 Jan-1 Mar (DW). A Swallow-tailed Kite was seen in various locations 10 Mar-2 Apr (RL, KL). A Peregrine Falcon wintered (AD et al). The two long-staying Red-tailed Hawks remained throughout the period and were seen displaying and nest building in Apr (DBW). A Purple Gallinule was at Cooper’s Island N.R. 21 May (JA, BM). A Least Sandpiper was seen at various locations during the winter period (AD, DBW). A Gull-billed Tern was at Spittal Pond 4-10 May (RG). An Iceland Gull was in the Great Sound 2 Feb (AD). At least two Piping Plovers wintered at Cooper’s Is. and Grape Bay (AD). A Purple Sandpiper discovered by AD and DW on the breakwater jetty at Dockyard 6 Jan was the first record for Bermuda (see separate article). A Eurasian Collared Dove (of debatable origin) was near the Govt. Quarry 16 May (PW). A Short-eared Owl was at the Airport 16-18 May (JA, BM), the latest spring date. At least four Common Nighthawks were seen at various locations 13-17 May (JA, PJH, BM, KR). A hummingbird species was reported from a St. Anne’s Road, Southampton garden on 30 Jan and again on 10 Mar (DBW), so it had presumably over-wintered. A Grey Kingbird was at Spittal Pond 31 May (RG). A Tree Swallow was over Somerset on 19 Dec and Ship’s Hill Pond 26-28 Jan (DW). Bermuda’s second Cave Swallow was discovered at Daniel’s Head Farm on 3 May (WF, DBW). A record four Yellow-throated Vireos were seen this winter at Morgan’s Point 29 Dec (EA), St. Georges 29 Dec (PW), Arboretum 11 Jan (DW) and Botanical Gardens 12 Jan (DW). A Northern Mockingbird spent 18-20 Mar at East Shore Lane, Somerset (PH). Of 22 warbler species recorded during the winter season, the more unusual included Nashville Warbler 24 Jan at Warwick Pond (DW) and Swainson’s Warbler 15 Feb-9 Mar Riddell’s Bay mangroves (AD, DW). A Lincoln's Sparrow was at Horseshoe Bay dunes 29 Jan (DW). A Grasshopper Sparrow was at Southside 3 Feb (AD). A Dickcissel was photographed at bird-feeder in Warwick 14 Apr providing a rare spring record (JT). A Common Redpoll was at Cloverdale 17 Jan (DW) and seven at Little Head Park 26 Jan (AD). A Summer Tanager was calling in the Arboretum 8-11 Jan (AD).

June to July

The highlight in the period was the first record in Bermuda of Black-bellied Whistling-Duck.

One breeding pair of Pied-billed Grebes produced five young on Pitman's Pond (DBW). Recovery of the endangered Bermuda Petrel continues with a record 85 breeding pairs raising a record 40 fledglings (JM). A Magnificent Frigatebird was seen at various locations 2-7 Jun (WF, PH). A Masked Booby was at Sally Tuckers, off the west end of Bermuda 7 Jul (CB). Summering heron species included Great Blue Heron, Great Egret (2) and Snowy Egret (1), while an ad. Tricolored Heron was at Spittal Pond 11-12 July and ad. Cattle Egret at Spittal Pond 21 Jun-11 Jul (DBW). A Black-bellied Whistling-Duck found at Somerset Long Bay Pond 30 Jun (DBW) was the first record for Bermuda. It was last seen at Spittal Pond 5 Jul (EA). A male Eurasian Wigeon at Spittal Pond and male Ring-necked Duck at Ship’s Hill Pond both summered (AD). One or two Ospreys were present in the summer with frequent sightings in the Great Sound and Harrington Sound. Less than 20 nesting pairs of Common Moorhen survive on 11 ponds and their breeding success is poor since the establishment of the Red-eared Terrapin as an invasive species in the 1980s. Both food competition and predation of new hatched chicks may be involved (DBW). Two American Coots over-summered at Spittal Pond (DBW). Three sub-adult Semipalmated Plover summered at Spanish Point (DBW). As usual a few Ruddy Turnstones and Black-bellied Plover also remained during the summer, as did one imm. Great Black-backed Gull. Early shorebirds included an ad. male Wilson's Phalarope at Warwick Pond 11-23 Jul (DBW), Lesser Yellowlegs (4) 17 Jul at Spittal Pond, Least Sandpipers (8) and a Stilt Sandpiper at North Pond 24 Jul (EA). One ad. Laughing Gull was seen in various locations during Jun and Jul (AD, JM, DBW). A Gull-billed Tern was at Spittal Pond, 23-25 Jul (DBW). Single Sandwich Terns were seen 15 Jun at Ferry Point (PW) and 3 Jul in Harrington Sound (DBW). The Bermuda Common Tern population continues to be very marginal since hurricane Fabian in 2003. 14 Adults of which only 3 were males reared only three broods totalling 8 fledged young this summer (DBW). The first returning Belted Kingfisher arrived 28 Jul on Nonsuch Is. (JM). An early Red-eyed Vireo was at Jenningsland 9 Aug (JM). An American Redstart on Nonsuch Is. 9 Aug (JM) was the first fall warbler (JM). A first-summer male Red-winged Blackbird at North Pond 15 Jun was the first June record for 30 years (RC, AD).

August to December

Yet another first record in Bermuda - Ross’s Goose. However, this rare sighting failed to hide the fact this year’s fall migration was very poor. There were noticeably lower numbers of warblers. Only 34 of the 39 warbler species on the Bermuda list were seen this fall and for at least 10 of these species, less than six individual birds were seen.

A pair of Cahows were found in a burrow on Nonsuch Island 10 Nov (the first occurrance for 400 yrs). By the month’s end, six burrows had been prospected (JM). Single Magnificent Frigatebirds were over Spittal Pond 7 Oct (Bill) and Government House grounds and North Shore 20 Nov (RG, HW). An imm. Brown Booby at dusk on the Warwick Long Bay stack 1 Sep (JMe) was last seen 11 Oct at Achilles Bay (AD). Possibly the same bird was seen off Hog Bay Park 29 Nov (AD). An imm. Brown Booby and a Northern Gannet were off Daniel’s Head 24 Dec (PW). An American Bittern was on Pembroke Marsh 19-26 Nov (DW). An imm. Black-crowned Night-Heron was at Spittal Pond 24 Oct-26 Nov (PW). Two Snow Geese were seen flying strongly west over Cloverdale 22 Nov (AD). They were later discovered at Government House grounds. Another flew in off the sea at Cooper’s Point 23 Nov (AD) and probably the same bird was present at Port Royal GC from 26 Nov. Bermuda’s first record of Ross's Goose 26 Oct near Gibbit's Bay (B&SB) was re-discovered on Belmont GC 25 Nov-Dec (DW, ph.AD). A Canada Goose was discovered at Freer Cox NR 10 Dec (KR, DBW). Five Wood Ducks were at Port Royal GC 26 Nov (DW). The long-staying male Eurasian Wigeon and a male American Wigeon male were at South Pond 11 Nov (AD). A Northern Pintail 15 Aug at Spittal Pond was the earliest fall record by 15 days (EA). A flock of 16 Ring-necked Duck were at Trott’s Pond 22 Nov(AD). A record 21 Lesser Scaup were recorded 22 Nov, with 14 at Spittal Pond (the largest single flock ever recorded in Bermuda) and 7 at Trott’s Pond (AD, PW). A male Long-tailed Duck was present on Ship’s Hill Pond 20-22 Oct (DW), the first record since 1990 and only the 6th record for Bermuda. A Bufflehead arrived on North Pond 11 Nov (DW). A record 17 Hooded Merganser were seen at various locations 26 Nov (DW). A male Sharp-shinned Hawk was over Port’s Is. 24 Dec (PW). A Cooper’s Hawk flew over Mid-Ocean GC 19 Nov (PW). A record 10 Semiplalmated Plovers were at Spanish Point 27 Dec (AD). Single Piping Plovers were seen at Horseshoe Bay 3 Oct (JM) and Cooper’s Is. 13 Oct (AD). A Willet was seen at North Pond 14 Aug (EA). An Upland Sandpiper was noted in Botanical Gardens 3 Aug (K&RL). Five Red Knot were seen 11 miles NNE of Bermuda 27 Oct (PW). A Buff-breasted Sandpiper on Port Royal GC 11 Sep was joined by another 13 Sep(AD). Two Short-billed Dowitchers were on Port Royal GC ponds 18-27 Dec (AD). Four Pomarine Jaegers were seen from the St. Georges Ferry off North Shore 6 Oct (WS). Two Jaegers were seen at distance on a boat trip off Cooper’s Is. 15 Nov (AD). A Black-headed Gull 23-24 Sep was the earliest fall record by about one month (PW). Another was seen at Dockyard 14 Dec (DW). An imm. Sabine’s Gull was found dead in sargassum in Flatts Inlet 21 Nov (CF). A Black Tern was present on Spittal Pond 2-7 Oct (KR). A Black-billed Cuckoo was seen at Pokiok 7 Oct (PH). A late influx of Yellow-billed Cuckoos included three in the West End 17 Dec (DW, K&RL). A Short-eared Owl was seen at the Airport 27 Dec (DBW). Several Ruby-throated Hummingbirds were noted – one was in a St. George’s garden 16 Oct (PW), two were seen at Barngrove, Tee Street 3 Oct (WS), one was present 2-20 Nov in a Smith’s Parish garden (J&K L) and on at least one date, two birds were seen. An Eastern Phoebe was seen at Spittal Pond 29 Nov (DBW). Single Great Crested Flycatchers were seen 7 Nov at Whale Bay Fort (DW) and Wreck Hill (WF). A Grey Kingbird at Somerset Long Bay NR 14 Aug was the earliest fall record by 21 days (PH). A Horned Lark was on the Airport 26 Sep (PW). A late flock of 16 Tree Swallows was at the East End dairy 10 Dec (DO). A Golden-crowned Kinglet was on Morgan’s Point 27 Dec (EA). A Northern Wheatear was on the Airport 21-26 Sep (DBW) and another was in a Hamilton Parish garden 16-19 Oct (PA). Two American Robin noted on the grass perimeter of Bermuda Airport on 23 Nov were the prelude to a number of sightings in Bermuda (AD). An American Pipit was on the Airport 9 Dec (JM, PW). A Golden-winged Warbler was in Shelly Bay fields 5-7 Oct (DBW). A Cerulean Warbler was seen on St. Georges GC 3 Oct (EA). A late Prothonotary Warbler was seen in Hog Bay Park 29 Nov (AD). A Connecticut Warbler was at Wreck Hill 7 Oct (WF). Single Yellow-breasted Chats were seen at Shelly Bay Park 17 Sep (DBW), Ferry Point Park 4-6 Oct (DBW) and Wreck Road 10 Dec (DW). Single Summer Tanagers were seen at Mid-Ocean GC 6 Dec (DBW), Tudor Farm 10 Dec (DW), and Jenningsland 14 Dec (JM). Single Lincoln’s Sparrows were found at Lukes Farm 1 Dec and Spittal Pond 16 Dec (DW). A White-throated Sparrow was in Hog Bay Park 29 Nov (AD). A Lapland Longspur was heard overhead at the Airport 10 Dec (PH). Two Dickcissel were seen on St. Georges GC 3 Oct (EA) and a further two at Hog Bay Park 11 Oct (AD, DW). A Bobolink was seen at Boaz Is 26 Dec (PH). A first year male Red-winged Blackbird was in Riddell’s Bay mangroves 27 Nov (DW). A juv. Common Grackle was seen at Riddell’s Bay mangroves 10 Oct (WS, PW). A Brown-headed Cowbird 14 Aug at North Pond was the earliest fall record by 6 weeks (EA).

Escapees

The mystery of several calling Northern Bobwhites during Aug/Sept in Devonshire was solved. Eight birds had escaped from captivity in Orange Valley Road (BL).

Observers:

Peter Adhemar, Eric Amos, Julian Avery, Beverley & Stephen Barton, Chris Burville, Rob Chandler, Andrew Dobson, Chris Flook, Wendy Frith, Richard Gozney, Peter Holmes (PJH), Peter Hopkin (PH), Kay & Ray Latter, Bruce Lorhan, Jade & Keith Lovell, Jeremy Madeiros, Blake Mathys, John Meadows (JMe), David O’Neill, Keith Rossiter, William Stone, James Tavares, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, Harry Whitcher, David Wingate (DBW).

Bird Report 2007

Andrew Dobson

January to February 2007

A Pied-billed Grebe seen with chick at Parson’s Road Pond 9 Jan (PW). A Horned Grebe 20 Feb to 22 Feb was off Smith’s Is. (PW). The long-staying Grey Heron was present to 28 Feb+ at Tucker’s Town. A female American Wigeon arrived at Jubilee Road 24 Feb (AD). A drake Northern Pintail was on Warwick Pond 9-13 Feb (DW). The Surf Scoter remained on Mangrove Lake 27 Nov-12 Feb (EA). An imm. Snow Goose arrived on Port Royal GC 13 Feb (AD). Five Merlins were roosting together on Hawkins Is. 9 Feb (PW). Two American Golden-Plovers, three Semipalmated Plovers and two Piping Plovers were amongst the uncommon wintering shorebird species (AD). Two Common Black-headed Gulls were present 1 Dec-28 Feb+ while a flock of 12 Bonaparte’s Gulls in Harrington Sound was noteworthy 24 Feb (AD). A Royal Tern was present at Dockyard to 20 Jan (PW). A Long-eared Owl, extremely rare in Bermuda, was photographed 1 Feb on Smith’s Is. (BD). Two Ruby-throated Hummingbirds wintered in St. David’s (immature female) 9 Dec-18 Feb (LO, TM) and Botanical Gardens (adult female) 29 Dec-10 Feb (LC, AD). Eastern Phoebes were reported at Spittal Pond 1 Dec-12 Feb (KR), St. David’s 20 Jan (G & SH), and High Point 8 Feb (DW). A Western Kingbird was at the Airport 22 Feb (DW). About eight Ruby-crowned Kinglets wintered (AD). A Northern Mockingbirds remained at Boaz Island to mid-Jan (PH). Amongst more than twenty species of wintering warbler were Blue-winged Warbler seen 14 Jan Talbot Estate (AD) and Nashville Warbler at Lagoon Park 4 Feb (DW). Five Baltimore Orioles were in Botanical Gardens 30 Jan-28 Feb+ (DW).

March to May 2007

The highlights of the spring season in Bermuda came from both sides of the Atlantic. The third and fourth records of Garganey (a male and female) and a Eurasian Teal may well have come from the east. The severe late winter storm that moved up the eastern seaboard in mid-April provided record number of Eastern Kingbirds, Summer and Scarlet Tanagers.

Sooty Shearwaters (17) passing Cooper’s Point, Bermuda 17 Mar (IF) were at least 3 weeks earlier than ever recorded, but coincided with date of birds seen off US East Coast. Manx Shearwater passage was peaking on the same day at two per minute. A 2-hr seawatch at Cooper’s Point, Bermuda 23 Mar (IF, PW) was very rewarding with Cahow (14), Manx Shearwater (72), a single Audubon's Shearwater, Wilson's Storm-Petrel (3), Leach's Storm-Petrel (3), Parasitic Jaeger (2) and Long-tailed Jaeger (2). A Magnificent Frigatebird was seen at Challenger Banks (off Bermuda) 24 Apr (CB). An American Bittern was moving between Nonsuch Is. and Cooper’s Point, Bermuda 1-23 Mar (JM). A Least Bittern was at Firefly Reserve, Bermuda 4 Apr (DBW). A Great Blue Heron with three imms. on Gibbett’s Is. 16 May strongly suggested successful nesting in Bermuda (DBW). Bermuda’s long-staying Grey Heron was present to 11 Mar (DBW). Black-Crowned Night-Herons were found in Bermuda at Spittal Pond 5 Apr (DBW) and Pilchard Bay Apr 15 (DW). A Glossy Ibis was on the Mid-Ocean GC, Bermuda 14 Mar- 4 May (AD) and another at Ely’s Harbour 24 Apr (CB). Two Red-tailed Hawks seen over Morgan's Point and Wreck Hill, Bermuda 2-9 May had built a nest on Morgan's point earlier in year but no longer visiting it (DBW). An imm. Canada Goose was seen at Spittal Pond and Princess Pond, Bermuda 5-15 Apr (DBW, AD), while another flew over Spittal Pond 16 May (KR). An American Wigeon was on Port Royal GC, Bermuda 14 Mar (IF, PW). Bermuda’s 3^rd and 4^th records of Garganey were recorded with a male at Jubilee Road 19-20 Apr (DW, photo by Andrew Dobson) and a female at Spittal Pond 7-26 May (EA & DBW). A drake Eurasian Teal was at Jubilee Road, Bermuda 20 Mar (IF, PW). A Red-breasted Merganser was in the Great Sound, Bermuda 24 Apr (AD). A probably Black Rail was at South Pond, Bermuda 23 Mar (IF, PW). A Virginia Rail was last seen at South Pond, Bermuda 3 May (DBW). A Black-necked Stilt was at Spittal Pond 1 May-6 June (KR). A Eurasian Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus was discover by IF at Stocks Harbour, Bermuda 17-20 Mar (photo Andrew Dobson). A Red Knot was on Cobblers Is. Bermuda 16 May (DBW). At least 24 Bonaparte’s Gulls were in the Great Sound area of Bermuda 9 Mar (PW). A Common Tern was noted 23 Mar on the coast at Spittal Pond, Bermuda (PW, IF). A Black Tern in Hamilton Harbour 20 Apr (WF, DW) was the only spring record in Bermuda. A probable South Polar Skua flew past Nonsuch Is., Bermuda 17 May (JM). Single Parasitic and Long-tailed Jaegers were seen off Cooper’s Point, Bermuda 22 Mar (IF), the first of few jaegers reported this spring. A Chimney Swift was at East End Dairy, Bermuda 16 Apr (PW) with others observed through May. A wintering Eastern Phoebe was last seen at Wreck Hill, Bermuda 8 Mar (WF). The first of an influx of about 11 Eastern Kingbirds was reported 14 Apr at Jubilee Road, Bermuda. A record spring flock was at Bermuda Airport with 8 or 9 on the 20-25 Apr on the perimeter fence (GA, AD, DBW). A Yellow-throated Vireo was at Southside, Bermuda 22 Mar (IF). A Tree Swallow was at The Causeway, Bermuda on 4 Mar (AD, JEM). A Ruby-crowned Kinglet remained at Wreck Road, Bermuda until 9 Mar (WF). A Swainson’s Thrush was on Gwelly Lane, Bermuda 15 May (WF). A Hermit Thrush was in the Arboretum, Bermuda 15 Mar (IF). A Northern Mockingbird was in the Hamilton, Bermuda 19 Apr (GP), and another at Hungry Bay 21 Apr (DG). An Orange-crowned Warbler was at Hog Bay Park, Bermuda 12-16 Mar (WF). A female Cape May Warbler 20 May (BM) at St. Georges GC, Bermuda was 9 days later than the previous spring record. A Prothonotary Warbler was at Hog Bay Park, Bermuda on 4 Mar (DW) and 16 Apr in Hungry Bay, Bermuda (GB). A Swainson’s Warbler remained at Wreck Hill, Bermuda until 12 Mar (WF). A record number of spring Summer Tanagers occurred in Bermuda with 6 individuals Apr 18-21 Apr. The first of a record influx of Scarlet Tanagers was reported 14 Apr on Mid-Ocean GC (RC). By the month’s end there had been at least 20 individuals reported, with 7 on the 19^th Apr (Mult.ob.). A White-throated Sparrow was at Hog Bay Park, Bermuda on 4-5 Mar (DW). Rose-breasted Grosbeaks where recorded in above average numbers, seen throughout Bermuda, with groups of up to 5 birds visiting several garden bird feeders 20-30 Apr. Two Bobolinks were at Pitman’s Pond 13-15 May (DBW)

June to July 2007

The big story of the summer is the first nesting attempt in Bermuda by House Wrens

The Cahow continues to make a strong recovery following the set-back of hurricane Fabian (2003). A record 80 breeding pairs raised a total of 39 young (JM). Shearwater passage peaked 3 Jun in Bermuda with birds moving at about 150 per hour. The majority were Greater, but also Cory’s and Sooty (JM). One Greater Shearwater arrived on a cruise ship in Bermuda 18 Jul (DBW). Over-summering heron species in Bermuda included Great Blue (10), Great Egret (1) and Little Blue (1) (DBW). The long-staying Grey Heron was present throughout the period (AD). One Osprey summered in Bermuda (GB). A Black-necked Stilt remained at Spittal Pond, Bermuda to 6 June (KR) and another bird seen at various locations in Jul may have been the same individual. A Semipalmated Plover 12 Jul at Whalebone Bay, Bermuda may have been a summering bird (AD). Summering shorebirds in Bermuda included Black-bellied Plover (4), Greater Yellowlegs (1), Whimbrel (4) and Ruddy Turnstone (14) (DBW, PW). The first significant arrival of returning shorebirds in Bermuda was in the last week of Jul (EA). A Royal Tern was in St. Georges Harbour, Bermuda 15 June (PW). A Sandwich Tern stayed in the East End, Bermuda 23-25 June (PW). A Roseate Tern was seen in various locations in Bermuda 14 Jun-11 Jul (DBW, JM). The population of Common Terns devastated by Hurricane Fabian (2003) was hit again by Hurricane Florence (2006). Nevertheless, the breeding success improved. A population of 18 birds (8 pairs and two single birds) resulted in 4 pairs producing broods of 3,2,3,3 – all of which successfully fledged (DBW). In Bermuda two Laughing Gills were present throughout Jul and one Greater Black-backed Gull over-summered (PW). A Yellow-billed Cuckoo was an unseasonal find at Spanish Point, Bermuda 8 Jul (JF). A single Bank Swallow was at Pitman’s Pond, Bermuda 10 Jun and two Barn Swallows at Bermuda Airport 8 Jun (DBW). While checking a bluebird nestbox trail on 3 June, a pair of House Wrens was discovered to have made four nests and laid eggs in one box (which had been abandoned) and laid 7 eggs in another box (FH). A further two nests were made, with 7 eggs in one box. All eggs failed to hatch, but this was the first nesting attempt in Bermuda. Wrens were sitting on both nests and a minimum of three individuals were confirmed. The wrens made use of a trail of Eastern Bluebird nestboxes. (DBW, FH, AD). A Blackpoll Warbler 7 June at the Bermuda Institute for Ocean Sciences (JA, BM)) was the first summer record for Bermuda. A Black-and-white Warbler 19July at Tom Moore’s Mangroves, Bermuda was the earliest date by 7 days. A calling waterthrush at Robinsons Marina, Bermuda 26 Jul (PW) was probably a Louisiana Waterthrush.

August to September 2007

The early fall period was notable for the lack of migrant birds –largely due to the pleasant weather and lack of storms or frontal systems coming off the East Coast.

An early Sora was at Somerset Long Bay Res (East) 8 Aug (DBW). A Black-necked Stilt remained on Spittal Pond to at least 9 Aug (KR). Heavy rain on Sep 1 resulted in a significant fall-out of shorebirds. A record 100 Semipalmated Plovers were recorded with 75 at the Airport. There were also 300 Semipalmated Sandpipers at the same location. An Upland Sandpiper was at the Southampton Golf Range 2 Sep (AD). While about 10 miles off the west end of Bermuda on 14 Sep, PW noted Arctic Tern (perhaps the first fall record), Sooty Tern and four Red Knot. A Willet was on Nonsuch Beach 18 Sep (JM). Single Baird’s Sandpipers were seen at Riddell’s Bay GC 26 Sep-1 Oct (DBW) and St. Georges GC 28 Sep (PW). A Great Crested Flycatcher was at Ferry Point 29 Sep (DBW). A Dickcissel was seen in Devonshire on 26 Sep (DW). A Kentucky Warbler was seen in the Riddell’s Bay mangroves 7 Sep (DW). A Yellow-breasted Chats was observed at Port Royal GC 30 Sep (AD).

October to December 2007

Three new pairs of Cahows were recorded during Nov to increase the known breeding pairs to eighty-three (JM). A Northern Gannet was seen off Gibbet’s Is. 29 Dec (JM, LM). An American Bittern was at Pitman's Pond 12-24 Oct and Firefly Reserve 5 Jan (AD, DW). A Least Bittern was at Lukes Farm 14 Oct (DW). Black-crowned Night-Herons were at Mullet Bay 29 Sep (DBW), Pilchard Bay 5 Oct (DBW) and Lukes Farm 14 Oct (EA). A Brant (Bermuda’s 9th) was on Tucker’s Point GC 1 Dec-31-Dec+ (AD). A Eurasian Wigeon found in Dec remained to year’s end (DBW). Two Surf Scoters were at Coney Is. 25-27 Nov (JM). A Northern Harrier was over Alton Hill 3 Oct (AD). A Sharp-shinned Hawk was over Somerset 18 Nov (DW). Both long-staying Red-tailed Hawks were present throughout the period. Peregrine Falcon numbers peaked at seven birds 13 Oct, four together over Somerset and three together over Paget Island (AD, WF). At least three remained to 5 Nov. A Black Rail was flushed and seen well 29 Dec and heard 31 Dec in Devonshire Marsh (JM, LM). Two Piping Plover frequented Grape Bay in Nov and Dec (AD, DW). A Dunlin was at the East End Dairy 10-11 Oct (PW). A Sandwich Tern was on one of the buoys in the channel N of Dockyard 16 Oct (PW). A Forster’s Tern remained at Watford Bridge until 2 Dec (PH). The Black Skimmer remained at Dockyard 26 Nov-7 Dec (PW). More than 100 Yellow-billed Cuckoos were recorded 12-14 Oct (PW). A Snowy Owl, last recorded in Bermuda in 1987, was on a school roof in Hamilton 6 Dec and 9 Dec (LB). A Short-eared Owl was seen at the Airport on 11 Dec (DBW). A Short-eared Owl was seen at the Airport on 11 Dec (DBW). One Common Nighthawk was noted 2 Oct at Devonshire Marsh (BL) with four over Paget Island 12 Oct (AD). A Northern Flicker was in the Arboretum 28 Nov (PW). A Western Kingbird was at Clearwater 10-14 Nov (DBW). A Grey Kingbird was at Fort Scaur 10-13 Oct (AD). Yellow-throated Vireos were seen 29 Dec at Morgan’s Point (EA) and St. Georges (PW). A Blue-headed Vireo was at BIOS 9 Nov (EC). A Tree Swallow was over Somerset on 19 Dec (DW). A Cliff Swallow over Daniel’s Head Farm 26 Dec provided the first winter record in Bermuda (DW). A rare Red-breasted Nuthatch was on Port Royal GC 3 Oct (DW). Northern Wheatears were discovered at Riddell’s Bay GC 4-9 Oct (DW), the National Stadium 6 Oct (EA) and Lukes Farm golf range 14 Oct (DW). Three Swainson’s Thrushes were discovered 14 Oct at Ferry Point (2) and Paget Is. (AD, DBW). Single American Robins were seen at Pilchard Bay 5 Oct (DBW) and Pitman’s Pond 12 Oct (AD). A Golden-winged Warbler was seen at St. Georges GC 13 Oct (EA). An Orange-crowned Warbler was at BIOS 10-12 Nov (AD). A Townsend's Warbler was a good find at Ft Scaur 14 Oct (WF). A Kentucky Warblers was seen on Ocean View GC 16 Oct (EA). Two Swainson’s Warblers were at Riddell’s Bay mangroves 1 Oct (DW). A Yellow-breasted Chat was observed at Ft. Scaur Oct 31 (DW). A Clay-colored Sparrow was at Pitman's Pond 13 Oct (EA). A Vesper Sparrow was at the Heydon Trust 23 Oct (AD). Single Grasshopper Sparrows were noted at Cedar Grove 22 Oct, Pitman’s Pond 24 Oct (WF) and on Mid-Ocean GC 24 Oct (AD). A Lincoln’s Sparrow was at Spittal Pond 16 Oct (AD). A Song Sparrow was seen at Cooper’s Point 10 Nov (AD, DBW). An imm. White-crowned Sparrow was at Port Royal GC 15 Oct (AD) and another at Westover Farm 25 Oct (WF). A Dark-eyed Junco was in St Davids 15 Oct (GA). A Painted Bunting (5^th record for Bermuda) was at Ferry Point 22 Oct (EA). Dickcissels were seen in Devonshire on 26 Sep (DW) and Cedar Grove fields 13 Oct (EA). A late Bobolink was at Pitman’s Pond 3 Dec (DBW).

Observers:

Eric Amos, Gerry Ardis, Lisa Bargett, Geoff Bell, Chris Burville, Rob Chandler, Lisa Clark, Elaine Cook, Andrew Dobson, Bobby Doe, Ian Fisher, Jenny Flood, Wendy Frith, Derek Gibbons, Gene and Susan Harvey, Felicity Holmes, Peter Hopkin, Bruce Lorhan, Jeremy and Leila Madeiros, Blake Mathys, John Meadows (JEM), Louise Olander, George Peterich, Keith Rossiter, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, David Wingate (DBW)

Bird Report 2006

Andrew Dobson

January to May 2006

The first five months of the year have once again provided some fascinating records. Bermuda’s first record of a live Grey Heron was confirmed (following the discovery of a dead one last year). The pair of Red-tailed Hawks attempted to breed. Meanwhile, a number of species lingered in Bermuda following the effects of Hurricane Wilma last year, notably Magnificent Frigatebird, Laughing Gull and Royal Tern.

Grebes to Birds of Prey

A pair of Pied-billed Grebe once again bred at Somerset Long Bay. Since the setback in Cahow breeding success following Hurricane Fabian in 2003, this year’s total of 38 chicks is most promising. This year also witnessed the return of the first chicks to have been banded as fledglings, 6 from 2002 and 2 from 2003. Other than Manx Shearwater, few shearwaters were seen before late May. Wilson’s and Leach’s Storm-Petrels were commonly seen well off-shore in Apr and May (AD). A very early White-tailed Tropicbird was seen at Spittal Pond 30 Jan (PW), but did not return in significant numbers until late February. Two immature Northern Gannets were regularly seen 9 Dec to Mar (PW). A Great Cormorant that wintered in the Great Sound was last seen 11 Mar (AD). Sightings of Magnificent Frigatebirds around the coastline continued until 5 Apr with two over St David’s (GA). A Grey Heron at Spittal Pond 22-27 Apr (DBW) was the first live record for this species in Bermuda. Green Herons are once again actively breeding. A flock of 30 Cattle Egrets were feeding at the Airport in Mar (PW). Several imm. Black-crowned Night-Herons were seen at various locations during the winter months (AD, DBW, PW). Least Bitterns were seen during mid-Apr at Pembroke Marsh (K&RL) and Paget Marsh (DW). Two Glossy Ibis were seen flying over Warwick 8 May and settled at Devonshire Marsh (AD). A Canada Goose was seen over Pembroke Marsh in Mar (TW). Seymour’s Pond hosted a pair of Gadwall 24 Mar- 4Apr (DBW) and a pair of Eurasian Wigeon 29 Dec-11 Mar (AD). A Greater Scaup was on Tucker’s Point GC Pond 13 Mar (EA). A Common Merganser was in Mangrove Lake 13 Jan (JM) and then the Great Sound to Mar (DW). A Red-breasted Merganser was seen at Somerset Long Bay 12 Feb (DW). A Ruddy Duck wintered on Parson’s Road Pond (AD). A Swallow-tailed Kite was regularly seen over Gibbs Hill 7-11 May (TW). Wintering Northern Harriers were last seen at the Airport 5 Apr and Great Sound 7 Apr (AD). The Red-tailed Hawk nest at Morgan’s Point was first noticed in early April (AC). Single Peregrine Falcons were noted 3 May over Flatts Hill (JM) and 15 May over Morgan’s Point (AD).

Shorebirds to Terns

An American Golden-Plover was on mudflats at Stocks Harbour 29 Apr-11 May (EA, PW). Three Semipalmated Plovers and two Piping Plovers wintered at Grape Bay with a Willet. This is the second wintering record of Willet in Bermuda. Three Piping Plovers were at Grape Bay 1 May (PW). Single Black-necked Stilts were seen at North Pond 23 Mar-5 Apr (GB) and Spittal Pond 22-27 May (PA). A Solitary Sandpiper seen at Jubilee Road 24 Jan (DBW) provided the first winter record for Bermuda. A Red Knot was at Riddell’s Bay GC 4 Dec- 17 Jan (DW). A Long-billed Dowitcher was at S.Princess Pond mid-Dec to 2 Jan (AD). A smattering of spring shorebirds arrived in May, including a Stilt Sandpiper at North Pond 6 May and single White-rumped Sandpipers at North Pond and Jubilee Road 21 May (AD). At least 20 Laughing Gulls wintered in Bermuda, mainly in the Hamilton Harbour area. Some were still present into May. A Franklin’s Gull was seen on 11 Feb in Castle Harbour (JM). A Black-headed Gull was last seen 7 Apr in Hamilton Harbour (AD). There was a movement of Bonaparte’s Gulls in March with 17 seen in Hamilton Harbour 20 Mar (PW). Five Royal Terns wintered, most often seen at Dockyard (AD) with at least three remaining into May. Two Sandwich Terns remained in the Hamilton Harbour area until early February. Three Forster’s Terns remained in Hamilton Harbour throughout the period (PW).

Nighthawk to Waxbills

A Common Nighthawk was over Nonsuch Is. 23 May (PW). A Northern Flicker was at Devonshire Church 1 Mar (SD). A Grey Kingbird was found at Brighton Hill 23 May (DW). A Red-eyed Vireo was at Somerset Long Bay 7 May (EA). A Barn Swallow over Pembroke Dump was unusual 28 Dec-8 Jan (DBW). Flocks of up to 14 birds were noted at several locations 20 Apr (AD, PW). A Veery came to a bird bath in Jenningsland 16 Apr (JM, LM). A Wood Thrush near the railway trail in Somerset provided a rare wintering record 31 Jan- 23 Mar (DW). Two American Robins were seen at Wreck Road 31 Jan (DW). American Pipits have been scarce on the Airport with eight 22 Jan (AD). Few migrant warblers were recorded in the spring, but notable sightings included a Blue-winged Warbler 20 Apr on Paget Is (AD) and Bay-breasted Warbler 7 May on Wreck Road (EA). A Summer Tanager seen in Dec and 24 Feb-12 Mar (SR) certainly over-wintered in the Arboretum. A male Scarlet Tanager was at Somerset Long Bay 2-7 May. A Snow Bunting was present on the Airport 12 Dec-18 Feb (PW). The largest flock of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks reported was six birds at Emily’s Bay Lane 20 Apr (EA). Indigo Buntings were also common spring migrants in Apr. Bobolinks were scarce migrants with singles at Pitman’s Pond 26 Apr (PJH) and Brighton Hill 20 May (DW). An escaped Black-rumped Waxbill (see photo AD) was seen in Devonshire Marsh 24 Feb-12 Mar (SR)

Observers: Eric Amos, Gerry Ardis, Peter Adhemar, Geoff Bell, Alan Card, Steven DeSilva, Andrew Dobson, Peter Holmes (PJH), Peter Hopkin, Kay & Ray Latter, Jeremy Madeiros, Steve Rodwell, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, Tim Wershler, David Wingate (DBW).

June to July 2006

Bermuda’s first live Grey Heron, discovered 22 April was still present. Two Great Egrets and two Little Blue Herons also over-summered (EA). A Tricolored Heron was seen in the East End 24 Jul (PW). Two Glossy Ibis were still present on Jubilee Road 5 Jun (DBW). A late Swallow-tailed Kite was seen at various locations 12-23 June (BL, PH). Five Black-bellied Plovers and one Whimbrel over-summered (PW). A Semipalmated Plover at Long Island 25 June (PW) provided an unusual summer record. An adult Spotted Sandpiper was at North Pond 9 Jun (DBW). Returning shorebirds were at least one week later than usual, appearing in the third week of July (EA, AD). A single Sandwich Tern off Spanish Point and Roseate Tern off North Shore, were seen 20 Jun (PW). A Brown Noddy was in the Hog Fish Channel 15-17 Jun (BL). Sightings of a South Polar Skua may well have been of the same individual 31 May, 6&10 Jun at Cooper’s Point (PW, AD), 2 Jun at Elbow Beach (GA) and 21 Jun off Horseshoe Bay (PW). Amongst returning swallows was an early Bank Swallow at East End Dairy 31 Jul (PW). A Louisiana Waterthrush at Pitman’s Pond 23 Jul (DW) was the first migrant warbler. Common Grackle is very rare in Bermuda. One seen on Nelly’s Is. 31 Jul (PW) had presumably over-summered.

August to December 2006

Fortunately Bermuda was spared any severe storms this season, with Hurricane Florence giving us a close shave on 10^th September. So there was no repeat influx of birds that occurred following Hurricane Wilma last year. There were some notable sightings this fall, including potential first records of MacGillivray’s Warbler and Western Tanager. Bermuda’s third Sandhill Crane put in a very brief appearance. A record four Northern Wheatears and three hummingbirds were seen. Long stayers include Bermuda’s first live Grey Heron and two Red-tailed Hawks.

Tropicbirds to Terns

A late White-tailed Tropicbird was over Darrell’s Island 22 Oct (AD, PW). Three Masked Boobies were seen off the East End 14 Sep (PW) – probably the result of Hurricane Florence passing on 10 Sep. Another was seen 17 Oct, also off the East End (PW). An American Bittern was at Cloverdale 14 Oct (DBW) and in Paget Marsh 29 Nov (DW). Two Least Bitterns were seen at Pitman’s Pond 14 Oct (AD) and Cloverdale 24 Oct (AD). The long-staying Grey Heron was present throughout the period, mainly in the Tuckers Town area. An immature Black-crowned Night-Heron was seen at Spittal Pond during October (AD, PW). A Brant Goose was present at Daniel’s Head 31 Oct (DW). An immature male Surf Scoter was discovered on Mangrove Lake 27 Nov-31 Dec (EA). The same bird was probably in Castle Harbour 24 Nov (JM). Single Ospreys were seen throughout the period at both ends of the island. A Northern Harrier first was noted at the Airport 15 Oct-31 Dec (PA). A Sharp-shinned Hawk was over Cemetery Hill 28 Oct (DBW). The two long-staying Red-tailed Hawks were present throughout the period. Peregrines were seen at various locations in October. A Virginia Rail was flushed from Kindley Field mangroves 8 Oct (AB, PW). Bermuda’s third Sandhill Crane flew over Long Island 22 Oct (NB, AD, PW). A flock of 23 Semipalmated Sandpipers was unusual at Riddell’s Bay GC 18 Sep (DW). Piping Plovers were noted at a number of locations during the fall and two have over-wintered at Grape Bay and Cooper’s Island respectively. Upland Sandpipers were noted at the Airport 21 Sep (DBW), St. Georges GC 27 Sep (PW), and Heydon Trust 12 Oct (DW). An oiled Baird’s Sandpiper was on Riddell’s Bay GC 10 Sep (DBW, EA). A Dunlin was at the same location in early mid-Sept and another at Spittal Pond 24 Oct (DBW). Buff-breasted Sandpipers appeared at a number of locations. A Long-billed Dowitcher was at Jubilee Road 17 Oct (EA). An adult light phase Pomarine Jaeger flew past Ruth’s Point 11 Sep (PW) following the passage of Hurricane Florence. A Common Black-headed Gull was on the Causeway 29 Oct (AD) while two have been at Dockyard since 15 Nov (PW). A Bonaparte’s Gull was also at Dockyard 15 Nov (PW). At least three Royal Terns were present in the early fall with at least one remaining into December.

Hummingbird to Dickcissel

Hummingbirds were reported from Devonshire 15 Oct (RM), St. David’s 9-31 Dec (LO), and Botanical Gardens 29-31 Dec (LC, AD). As wintering hummingbirds on the US East Coast in winter are invariably Black-chinned rather than Ruby-throated, it is hoped that confirmation of species can be made from photographs. Perhaps as many as 15 Empidonax flycatchers were reported in October, mainly of the Alder-Willow variety. Scarce vireo species recorded included Yellow-throated, Blue-headed, Warbling and Philadelphia. A single Golden-crowned Kinglet was seen at Ferry Point Park 27 Oct-11 Nov (DW) while Ruby-crowned Kinglets were seen at many locations including six on 11 Nov (DW, PW). A record year for Northern Wheatears reflected similar sightings along the Eastern Seaboard. Four birds were seen, with singles at the National Stadium 9 Sep (AD), Heydon Trust 23-24 Sep (DW), St. Georges GC 13 Oct (DBW) and Lukes Farm 6 Oct (DBW). Thrushes were once again thin on the ground. A Swainson’s Thrush was on Nelly’s Island 22 Oct (AD, PW). Hermit Thrushes were scattered widely with at least 12 individuals 28-29 Oct (AD) and there was a small influx of American Robins noted in late October with five on 27 Oct in the East End (PW). At least three Northern Mockingbirds were reported (a rarity in Bermuda). One was at Boaz Island 20 Sep to late Dec (PH), a ‘tail-less’ bird was seen at Tee Street 16 Oct (PJH) and again St. Georges 17 Oct (PW), while a third was discovered in Somerset in Dec (PH). American Pipits arrived from 24 Oct on Cooper’s Island and 28 Oct at Brighton Hill (DW) with a small flock wintering at the Airport (DW). Thirty-four species of warbler were recorded during the season, with a notable fall involving hundreds of Blackpoll Warblers 12 Oct (EA, PW et al). A potential first for Bermuda was a MacGillivray’s Warbler 28 Oct at Paget Marsh (PH). The three-second view allowed Peter Hopkin to note some detail, but it has not been seen again. First year or adult female bird perched up in the dead cedar at the very end of the Paget Marsh boardwalk. At first side-on at the back of the tree, it moved to the front where it was above me looking down. It took a good look at me for about three seconds at 4m range then plunged back into the swamp vegetation. Fortunately I have seen many in Colorado, British Columbia and Costa Rica so it was no problem to identify. The main feature was the broken eye-ring, which was clear white and heavy, rather like a Laughing Gull, above and below the eye, broken front and back. It contrasted strongly with the dark grey lores and greyish ear coverts and bright enough that at such close range I could see the ring with naked eye. Face and breast cold olive-grey beige, much cooler in colour than Connecticut, although darker area around the eye and lores very small. Sharp division on lower breast between breast and with reasonably bright, but not vivid, yellow belly. The underparts were duller between the legs and then brighter cleaner yellow undertail coverts, which were short compared to the tail; thus the bird looked slimmer and better proportioned than the rather stubby Connecticut Warbler. Upperparts were plain brown, quite warm, and with no wing bars, tertial fringes or spots on the ends of the remiges noted. Tail was slightly raised away from me so I did not see the underside, or note the leg colour. Bill short and pale brown, at least on the underside. Size comparison was possible with Yellow-rumped Warblers; it was slimmer and perhaps slightly shorter; a neater bird.

Another potential first for Bermuda was a Western Tanager seen by David Wingate at Ferry Point Park 21 Oct. This bird hung around for some 10 mins, allowing the following description. David wrote: As this is a first Bermuda record and I didn't have digiscope to photo it, here is my descriptive documentation as written in my field notebook BEFORE I returned to the car to check the National Geographic Guide. "Size and greenish yellow head and underparts colour of Scarlet Tanager, but possibly bigger with yellowish rump. Typical tanager bill, pinky yellow, darker above and on tip. Darkish legs. Diagnostic feature was two bold wingbars on otherwise grey green wings. Bold yellowish front wing bar and narrow whitish rear wing bar, those coverts distinctly white tipped. Also white edges on tertials. Back slightly darker mottled grey green, not the smooth green of a Scarlet." I did not know (or recall) before I checked the guide that Western IS slightly larger than Scarlet and does have a paler yellowish rump, so noting these features without that awareness corroborates the diagnostic field mark which was the bold wing bars. Neither did I recall that the fore and aft wingbars are differently coloured, so my noting this is further support of correct identification. Indeed the field marks were so clear and distinctive that it was most likely an immature male if not even an adult male in winter plumage! In all other respects it was classic tanager jizz including the fact it was apparently catching and eating Polistes wasps which were common in the area. I encountered it at 1100hrs on the railway trail where the path from main road crosses it into the enclosed yellow fever cemetery. It was at eye level on dead snag and then in Jumbie Bean, all in full sunlight with sun at my back at 20' - 25' range. I had excellent repeated views for next 5 -10 minutes before it moved deeper into the thicket and I became distracted by a cell of migrants, mainly Indigo buntings moving through the same area.

Scarce sparrow species included Clay-coloured (6-12 Oct Pitman’s Pond (DBW); Song Sparrow at Bailey’s Bay 13 Nov (PW); Swamp Sparrow and Dark-eyed Junco 22 Nov Ferry Point Park (PW). A Snow Bunting was discovered on Castle Island 17 Dec (JM, LM). Dickcissels were present at Cedar Grove 30 Sep (EA), Paget Island 8 Oct (AD, PW), Port Royal GC 16 Oct (AD) and Lukes Farm 17 Dec (EA).

Photographic proof of a significant Bermuda record has just been received. On Jan 2, 2005 an American Visitor, David G Smith, reported what he was sure were three White Pelicans flying east to the north of Spittal Pond. He gave a detailed account of them. And that same day Audubon member Heather DeSilva reported three white pelicans flying towards the east. Eric Amos recently received a digital print sent to him by a resident of Southampton (off Buck Island). It is dated 1 Jan 2005 and clearly shows three White Pelicans.

Observers: Gary Allport, Eric Amos, Peter Adhemar, Nicholas Barton, Ann Brown, Lisa Clark, Andrew Dobson, Peter Holmes (PJH), Peter Hopkin (PH), Kay & Ray Latter, Bruce Lorhan, Jeremy Madeiros, Leila Madeiros, Robin Maraira, Louise Olander, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, David Wingate (DBW).

Bird Report 2005

Andrew Dobson

December 2004 – February 2005

The winter season began quietly, but as the weather worsened into January and early February, with cool temperatures and high winds, the birding got much better! The 45.8ºF on 24 Jan was the lowest for about 50 years. Highlights of the period included the first record of Kirtland’s Warbler in Bermuda, the second record of American White Pelican, the third and fourth records of Rough-legged Hawk, a Sabine’s Gull and two Horned Grebes.

Grebes to Hawks

Two Horned Grebes were in Castle Harbour 6 Feb (IF, PW). Three American White Pelicans flew along South Shore near Spittal pond, crossing the island to North Shore on 2 Jan (HD, DS). There is only one previous record for this species in Bermuda. A Great Cormorant was in the Great Sound 5 Feb (IF, PW). American Bitterns have been seen regularly at Paget Marsh and Seymour’s Pond. An immature Snow Goose appeared on Warwick Academy sports field 18Dec (JH), while a Canada Goose briefly appeared at Southampton Princess Pond 23 (AD). Single Eurasian Teal males were first noted on Southampton Princess Pond 23 Jan (AD, PH) and Parsons Road Pond 30 Jan (TW). Five wintering Common Goldeneye is a new record count, with three at Spittal from 26 Jan (DW) and two more at Mangrove Lake from 1 Feb (DW) Feb including an adult male. Birds of prey have included Osprey, the long-staying Red-tailed Hawks, Northern Harrier (2), American Kestrel and Merlin. But the arrival of two Rough-legged Hawks at the airport 26 Jan (DH, PHol) and 1 Feb (DH) is quite exceptional as there are only two previous records for this species in Bermuda.

Shorebirds to Terns

Of the less common wintering shorebirds, single Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs have been seen, as well as a Red Knot 18 Dec at Spanish Point (BL, JT). An American Avocet at Ocean View GC 21 Jan (RL) was the first winter arrival for this species and a rare Bermuda record. A first-winter Black-headed Gull was in Hamilton Harbour 26 Dec (IF, PW). A high count of up to 30 Lesser Black-backed Gulls this winter was noteworthy, but the unusual gulls arrived during the storms of late Jan/early Feb. An Iceland Gull was seen at Coney Island 27 Jan (PW) and by the first week of Feb had been joined by two more Iceland Gulls and Glaucous Gulls (2) at various locations (IF, PW). A real find was an adult Sabine’s Gull off Cooper’s Point 3 Feb (IF, PW). A Black-legged Kittiwake passed Cooper’s Point 6 Feb (AD, IF et al) while an adult came inshore 7 Feb (IF, DW). A Forster’s Tern has wintered at Dockyard.

Owls to Redpoll

A Long-eared Owl was reported from Hog Bay Park 5 Feb (LH), while a Short-eared Owl was seen at the airport 13 Jan (DH). Hummingbird species, most likely Ruby-throated were seen 18 Dec at Port Royal GC (EA) and Orange Valley Road (BL), 9 Jan near Astwood Park (TW), and 31 Jan Lighthouse Hill (PT). A Northern Flicker was on Port Royal GC 3 Jan (AD). An Eastern Phoebe was seen at Compston’s Pond 18 Dec (DBW), with a second at Wreck Road 2 Jan (WF). A Yellow-throated Vireo was a rare winter record at Morgan’s Point 1 Jan (AD, PW). A Blue-headed Vireo was seen in Devonshire Marsh 20 Dec (JM). Horned Larks (3) were discovered at the airport 25 Jan (DH). Tree Swallow (2) and Barn Swallow were both recorded 18 Dec at East End Dairy (PW). At least one Hermit Thrush wintered at Hog Bay Park. Six American Robins were at Morgan’s Point 1 Jan (AD, PW). A Northern Mockingbird was banded at the Biological Station in early Dec. A late Yellow Warbler was seen at Waterville 1 Dec (DW). A Townsend’s Warbler was at Orange Valley Road 19 Dec (BL). A Kirtland’s Warbler was found on the CBC 18 Dec (EA) – see separate article. A Swainson’s Warbler was seen 16 Jan at Ocean View GC (AD, TW). Wintering sparrows included a Grasshopper Sparrow at Lover’s Lake (DW). Dark-eyed Juncos have wintered at Port Royal and Mid-Ocean GC. Snow Buntings (2) have wintered on the Castle Harbour Islands (JM). A Dickcissel was recorded 18 Dec at Talbot Estate (EA). A Common Redpoll was at Cooper’s Island 5 Feb (IF).

Observers: Eric Amos, Heather DeSilva, Andrew Dobson, Ian Fisher, Wendy Frith, Linda Hartley, Junior Hill, Peter Holmes (PHol), Peter Hopkin (PH), Ray Latter, Bruce Lorhan, Jeremy Madeiros, David Smith, James Tatem, Peggy Thompson, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, Tim Wershler, David Wingate (DBW).

March to July 2005

Highlights of this report include: a record shearwater movement; summer records of Merlin and Bonaparte’s Gull; Bermuda’s 4^th Bridled Tern; unprecedented numbers of dead Atlantic Puffins; two Rough-winged Swallows and Bermuda’s 4^th Brown Thrasher.

Grebes to Ibis

Pied-billed Grebe young were at Parson's Road Pond 27 Mar (AD). Two wintering Horned Grebes were still in Castle Harbour 24 Mar (JM). Another good year for Cahows after the set-back following Hurricane Fabian (2003). A record 71 pairs produced 35 chicks, of which 21 were successfully translocated and fledged from Nonsuch Island (JM). The big Greater Shearwater passage occurred on 3/4 June. By the second day, birds were passing Cooper’s Point at about 1,000 per hour – one of the best-ever counts. Andrew Dobson comments: “I watched from Cooper's Point, Jeremy and Leila was also counting from Nonsuch. During the morning, birds were moving at such a rate that a dozen could be seen in one telescope view! I decided to note the number of minutes taken to count 100 birds. The quickest was 5 mins (1200 per hour) and the longest 8 mins (750 per hour) - and this was going on all morning. So 1,000 per hour won't be far wrong. As to species - the vast majority were Greater. All morning I only noted about 6 Manx, 20 Sooties and about 100 Cory's.” Sooty Shearwaters were peaking at 40 per hour 21 May at Cooper's Point (AD). The first Manx Shearwaters (40) were seen passing Cooper’s Point 29 Mar (PW), with a maximum of 120 per hour 9 Apr at Devonshire Bay (AD). A Canada Goose was briefly present at Spittal Pond 13 May (FH, PS). A pair of Wood Ducks was at Parson's Road 24 Mar (TW). A Eurasian Teal (male) revealed itself at North Pond in Mar (PW) making a record three wintering individuals which remained into Apr. A Greater Scaup was seen in June on Parson’s Road Pond (EA). The Little Egret was re-located at Paget Island 30 Mar (PW). A Glossy Ibis was at Spittal Pond 3 Apr-13 May (AD).

Birds of Prey to Puffins

Separate Ospreys were present throughout the period at the East End and Castle Harbour area. A Swallow-tailed Kite was over Camp Hill 13 Mar-17 Apr (RP) with two at Riddell’s Bay GC 17 Apr (per. DW). Two Northern Harriers were over the Airport perimeter on 18 Mar (AD). A Sharp-shinned Hawk was seen over Nonsuch Island 4 Apr (DBW) and 16 Apr at Abbott’s Cliff (PW). The two long-staying Red-tailed Hawks were over Morgan's Point 29 Apr (DW). One of the two wintering Rough-legged Hawks was still present at the Airport 3 Mar (AD). A Merlin over Tee Street 3 Jul provided the first ever summer record (AD, PJH). A Virginia Rail was at Spittal Pond 3-6 Apr (AD). Shorebirds noted at Spittal Pond in Apr/May included: Greater Yellowlegs (2), Lesser Yellowlegs (3), Solitary Sandpiper (2), Spotted Sandpiper, Red Knot (2), Semipalmated Sandpiper (10), Least Sandpipers (2), Stilt Sandpiper, and Short-billed Dowitcher. A male Ruff was at Spittal Pond 25 Apr (DBW). A Wilson’s Phalarope was at Spittal Pond 31 May (DW). A Great Skua passed over Cooper's Point 21 May (AD, PW). A Bonaparte’s Gull seen throughout much of June provided the first summer record for this species (PW). A Gull-billed Tern flew over Bartram’s Pond 20 June (EA). A Royal Tern was seen in various locations 11-20 Apr (DBW, PW). A Roseate Tern was in Castle Harbour 11and 30 May (DBW, PW). The first returning Common Tern was noted in Harrington Sound 31 Mar (JG). An adult Bridled Tern (the fourth record for Bermuda) was seen of the East End 12 Jun (PW). At least nine dead Atlantic Puffins were found at various locations around Bermuda 9 Mar-13 Apr. This unfortunate discovery is remarkable in that there have only been six previously records (also corpses). Cause of death may well have been an intensive low pressure system that forced birds south into poor feeding areas.

Swifts to Buntings

The first Chimney Swift was noted over Jenningsland 18 Apr (JM) with a maximum of seven at St. Georges GC 25 May (PW). There were several reports of a summering Belted Kingfisher in June. An Eastern Kingbird was at Clearwater 30 Mar-6 Apr (AD), with another at Wreck Hill 4 May (WF). A Yellow-throated Vireo was seen at Stokes Point Reserve 17 Apr (DBW). Yellow-throated and Red-eyed Vireos were at Fort Scaur 24 Apr (WF, DW). Two Purple Martins were over Astwood Park 16 Mar (AD). Two Tree Swallows at the Airport 10 Mar provided the first of our land-based migrants. Spittal Pond hosted a variety of swallow species, including: two rare Rough-winged Swallows (a Bermuda maxima) 26 Apr (DW), a Bank Swallow 30 May-2 June (DW) and a Cliff Swallow 24 Mar (AD). A Swainson’s Thrush was seen at Bartram’s Pond 2 May (EA). A Brown Thrasher (see photo) was almost certainly a ship-assisted arrival in the City of Hamilton 2 May (GG). Cedar Waxwings were commonly observed, with large flocks at Spittal Pond (35) 23 Apr (AD) and Wreck Hill (50) 4 May (WF). A Golden-winged Warbler provided a rare spring record at Fort Scaur 10 Apr (WF). A Magnolia Warbler was at Fort Scaur 1 May (AD). The wintering Townsend’s Warbler was last seen in Orange Valley Road 3 Mar (BL). A Palm Warbler was noted at Fort Scaur 5 May (AD). A Bay-breasted Warbler was at Fort Scaur 24 Apr (WF). A Prothonotary Warbler was on Nonsuch Island 2 Apr (JM) with other sightings during the month. A Northern Waterthrush 1 Jun (latest spring date) at Somerset Long Bay NR (DW) provided a very rare June warbler record. A Louisiana Waterthrush was at North Pond 2 Apr (EA). A Kentucky Warbler was seen at Hungry Bay 5 Apr (GH). A Scarlet Tanager was at Fort Scaur 24 Apr- 4 May (WF). A Chipping Sparrow was at Fort Scaur 5 Mar with two Dark-eyed Juncos (AD). A Swamp Sparrow was at Somerset Long Bay NR 26 Mar (AD). A Lapland Longspur at Astwood Park 16 Mar (TW) was a rare spring record. There were numerous reports of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks and Indigo Buntings during April and May. A male Blue Grosbeak was seen in Paget 20 Apr (AD).

Observers: Eric Amos, Andrew Dobson, Wendy Frith, Gertrude Gierlinger, Jennifer Gray, Gene Harvey, Felicity Holmes, Peter Holmes (PJH), Peter Hopkin (PH), Bruce Lorhan, Jeremy and Leila Madeiros, Ron Porter, Penny Soares, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, Tim Wershler, David Wingate (DBW).

August to September 2005

The season’s highlights included the first record of Grey Heron in Bermuda; the second records of Garganey and White-winged Dove; two Eurasian Wigeons, Black Rail, 70 Magnificent Frigatebirds, Hudsonian Godwit, Baird’s Sandpiper, record gull and tern counts, Caspian Tern (Bermuda’s 3^rd record), record Chimney Swifts, two Northern Wheatear, three Winter Wrens (Bermuda’s 6^th, 7^th, 8^th records) and Townsend’s Warbler.

Cahow to Gallinule

The first returning Cahows were noted 19 Oct. A Leach's Storm-Petrel was seen off-shore 28 Oct (PW). An immature Masked Booby was photographed off West Whale Bay in early Sep., and another died in captivity at BAMZ 4 Aug (JG). An immature Northern Gannet was seen off North Shore 9 Dec and 22 Dec (PW). A Magnificent Frigatebird was over castle Harbour 4 Sep (KD, AD, JM). Following the record influx of about 70 Magnificent Frigatebirds from Hurricane Wilma, a single frigatebird was seen as late as 21 Dec (FH). An American Bittern is wintering in Devonshire Marsh (DBW). A Least Bittern was at Riddell’s Bay GC 14 Sept (JM) and Paget Marsh 15 Nov (AD). A record 28 Great Blue Herons were seen at Frank’s Bay 26 Oct (DW). Bermuda’s first Grey Heron (moribund) was found at Kindley Field 7 Oct (DW). A possible adult Grey Heron was at Spittal Pond 11 Dec (DBW).There was a noticeable arrival of herons and egrets about 22 Oct prior to the passage of Hurricane Wilma. Thirty Cattle Egrets were at the Airport 24 Nov (PW). A Black-crowned Night-Heron flew into Flatts 20 Nov (PH). Three Snow Geese were on the Airport 11-13 Dec (EH, SH). Two Eurasian Wigeon arrived at Spittal Pond 20 Oct (DBW). A Northern Shoveler was on Parson’s Road Pond from 29 Oct (DBW). A Northern Pintail was on the Princess Pond 2 Nov (DW). Another Eurasian vagrant, a Garganey (Bermuda’s 2^nd record) was identified by PW, present at Spittal Pond from at least 10 Oct. The long-staying Red-tailed Hawk was seen over the Hamilton Harbour Islands 17 Nov (DBW). Sharp-shinned Hawks and Peregrine Falcons were reported from both ends of the island in October. Paul Watson flushed what was almost certainly a Black Rail from the edge of North Pond 24 Nov. There have only been a couple of similar brief sightings of this tiny bird since recorded by Hurdis in Bermuda in 1851! Paul commented: “Seen at a distance of about 15-20 feet as it flew from the SE corner of the pond onto one of the small islands on SE corner, very small all black bird about the size of a very dumpy sparrow, white spots on lower back seen, and large trailing feet noted in flight. The bird flew into long marsh grass on island, and it did not come out ….” Virginia Rails were seen at Wreck Hill (WF), Heydon Trust (AD) and Spittal Pond (RL, KL) in Oct. A Purple Gallinule was reported from Spittal Pond 20-21 Oct (DBW).

Shorebirds to Terns

At least 27 species of shorebirds have been recorded this fall. With high water levels on most ponds, the birds have been mainly found on golf courses and farm fields. A record 50 Semipalmated Plover on 17 Sep, including 25 in one field at Lukes Farm (AD). Piping Plovers were at Cooper’s Island (1), Grape Bay (2) and one seen into Dec at Spanish Point. A shorebird with red legs flushed from White’s Island 1 Oct gave brief views, but enough to suggested Spotted Redshank, a species never before recorded in Bermuda (PW). A late Willet was at Hungry Bay 20 Nov (GH). One Upland Sandpiper was recorded from Tuckers Town GC on 11 Sep (JM). A Hudsonian Godwit was discovered at Pitman’s Pond 7 Sep-Oct (AD). A Red Knot was at Riddell’s Bay GC 4 Dec (DW). A record 35 White-rumped Sandpipers were at various locations 18 Sep (AD). A Baird’s Sandpiper was on Port Royal GC 19-20 Sept (AD). A Dunlin was at Daniel’s Head 20 Sept (DW). Several Buff-breasted Sandpipers were recorded during the fall. Hurricane Wilma produced a record 30 Laughing Gulls at various locations 4 Nov (AD), and a record 5 Franklin’s Gulls at Ferry Point 4 Nov (PW). A Franklin’s Gull was still present in Hamilton Harbour 3 Dec (AD). A Black-headed Gull was present 13 Nov-Dec (AD, NB) at various locations. A Caspian Tern (Bermuda’s 3^rd record) passed Elbow Beach 27 Oct (PH) and Ferry Point 31 Oct (PA). Royal Terns (28) and Sandwich Terns (200) were extraordinary record counts following Hurricane Wilma. A few birds remained into Dec. A Roseate Tern was at Ferry Point 29 Oct (AD) and joined by a second bird. A record six Forster’s Terns were together in Hamilton Harbour 27 Nov (PW). A Bridled Tern was at Charles Island 26 Oct (JM). A Sooty Tern was off Ruth’s Point 28 Oct (PW). Single Bridled and Sooty Terns were seen together in the Little Sound 7 Nov (TW). A Black Tern was in Hamilton Harbour 1 Nov (PW).

Doves to Buntings

Bermuda’s second White-winged Dove was discovered in St. George’s 5 Dec (PW). Mid-October saw the arrival of several dozen Yellow-billed Cuckoos. Black-billed Cuckoos were reported from many locations including a late record at Pembroke Marsh 29 Nov (PW). Only a few Common Nighthawks were noted. Up to ten Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers also appeared at various locations and Hurricane Wilma produced record numbers of Chimney Swifts (100+). Three well-watched swifts at Cooper’s Island 1 Nov (PW) suggested Vaux’s Swift, a species not previously recorded in Bermuda. It has not been a notable year for flycatchers. Eastern Wood-Pewee was first noted 8 Oct at Cooper’s Island (AD, PW). An Acadian Flycatcher was on St. Georges GC 26 Oct (PW). There were few records of other empidonax species. Eastern Phoebes have been seen in Nov and Dec at Spittal Pond, North Pond and Jubilee Road. A Western Kingbird was at Kindley Field 5 Dec (PW). A Blue-headed Vireo was at Port Royal GC 4 Dec (AD, PA). A Warbling Vireo was at Fort Scaur 2 Oct (AD) and also with a Philadelhia Vireo at the Biological Station 18 Oct (AD). Three Winter Wrens were discovered at St. Georges GC 26-28 Oct (PW), Port Royal GC 28 Oct (AD) and 15 Dec (EA) and Ferry Point 4 Nov (PW). A Northern Rough-winged Swallow was at East End Dairy 29 Nov (AD). All the regular swallow migrants were recorded, with a large influx of Barn Swallows in mid- Oct, including 50 at Outerlea Farm 15 Oct (AD). A Ruby-crowned Kinglet was at the Biological Station 18 Oct (PW). A Northern Wheatear on St. Georges GC 27-28 Aug (PW) was an exceptional find, being three weeks in advance of the earliest record. Another was found on Horn Rock 24 Oct (JM). There was a better showing of thrushes than in recent years. A Veery was discovered on St. Georges GC 8 Oct (DBW). Veery, Grey-cheeked Thrush and Swainson’s Thrush were all feeding on a fruiting ficus tree at the Biological Station in mid-October. The same tree also hosted five species of vireo, numerous warbler species, Scarlet Tanager, Rose-breasted Grosbeak and Baltimore Oriole! Hermit Thrushes were seen in St. Georges Cemetery 21 Nov (PW) and Jenningsland 7-10 Dec (JM). An American Robin was at Cedar Grove 22 Oct (AD). American Pipits have been scarce on the Airport, but were also reported from Belmont GC 9 Oct (2) and Penhurst Park 25 Nov (PA). Cedar Waxwings were at the Heydon Trust 17 Oct (AD). Following worries about the lack of warbler species this fall, good numbers finally arrived in mid-October and 36 species have been recorded, including single sightings of Cerulean Warbler 17 Oct St. Georges GC (PW), Townsend’s Warbler 24 Oct at Scaur Hill (AD), Kentucky Warbler in Jenningsland 12 Nov (JM) and Yellow-breasted Chat in Walsingham 2 Nov (JM). A Mourning Warbler 4 Sep (DBW) may have been the earliest ecord. Summer and Scarlet Tanagers were recorded from various locations. A late Blue Grosbeak was seen at Parson’s Road 8 Dec (DW). Late fall saw the arrival of a number of the rarer sparrow species including: Clay-coloured Sparrow 18 Oct at Ferry Point (PW); Vesper Sparrows at Parson’s Road 3 Nov (DW), Port Royal GC 4 Dec (AD, PA) and Ferry Point 9 Dec (EH, SH) and Dickcissels at St Georges GC 16 Oct (PW) and Cedar Grove 22 Oct (DW). A Dark-eyed Junco was at St. George’s Cemetery 8 Oct (PW). A Lapland Longspur was on the Causeway 13 Nov (AD, NB). A Snow Bunting was seen at the Airport 12 Dec (PW). A Common Grackle was seen at Paget Marsh 13 Nov (KL, RL).

Observers: Peter Adhemar, Eric Amos, Ned Brinkley, Andrew and Katrina Dobson, Wendy Frith, Jennifer Gray, Gene and Susan Harvey, Felicity Holmes, Peter Holmes (PJH), Peter Hopkin (PH), Kay and Ray Latter, Jeremy and Leila Madeiros, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, Tim Wershler, David Wingate (DBW).

Bird Report 2004

Andrew Dobson

January to May 2004

January and February were particularly stormy, with frequent low pressure systems moving off the East Coast. As a result, the range of northern species occurring in Bermuda has been noteworthy. March and April remained cool, but the lack of any strong south-easterly winds so far this season and a huge high pressure system sitting over Bermuda for much of May, prevented the influx of most spring migrants and put paid to any chance of sea-watching for pelagic migrants. Highlights have included: Three Northern Gannets (a maxima); twenty species of wildfowl (including 10 Snow Geese, Eurasian Teal, Eurasian Wigeon and two White-winged Scoters - Bermuda’s 3^rd and 4^th); Glaucous Gull; 3 Short-eared Owls (a maxima); Bohemian Waxwing (Bermuda’s 2^nd record); Lapland Longspur. From the south, we’ve had Glossy Ibis and Purple Gallinule. From the east a Little Egret (Bermuda’s 3^rd) and a possible Grey Heron (a potential ‘first’). Finally, another new species for Bermuda, an adult California Gull, a species that should have been wintering on the Pacific Coast.

Petrels to Ducks

A shearwater sp. (probably Manx) crossed the Causeway during a gale on 28 Jan (EA). Manx Shearwaters were passing Elbow Beach 16 Mar (AD), but the subsequent shearwater passage has been very sparse due to unfavourable winds. An early White-tailed Tropicbird was seen off the east end of Bermuda 2 Jan (GA). A Northern Gannet at Ferry Reach 8 Jan (PH) was the first of three immature birds to appear in Jan. There are only a handful of previous records for this species. One of the immature Northern Gannets seen during the winter months was still present in Bermuda waters up to at least 18 May. The long-staying Snow Goose remains at Outerlea Farm despite the other six geese leaving in mid-March. A possible Grey Heron (photo) has sparked much debate since being noticed at Spittal Pond 7 May (EA). If consenus can be reached on separating it from Great Blue Heron, it will be another new record for Bermuda. Bermuda’s third Little Egret was discovered at Spittal Pond 5 Feb (IF) and again present in mid-May despite wandering the island. A Glossy Ibis was present at Kindley Field to at least 19 Mar (AD). Five wintering Canada Geese was a record high for Bermuda, with four at Spittal Pond and one at Jubilee Road 11 Dec-Mar (AD). A female Eurasian Wigeon was at Warwick Pond 1 Feb (EA). Between 30-40 American Black Ducks arrived following a storm on 15 Jan (AD). A male Eurasian Teal stayed on Warwick Pond 25 Jan-Mar (SR). A female Northern Pintail was still at Spittal Pond 8 May (AD). A White-winged Scoter was found at Fairylands Creek 22 Jan (DW) but was picked up dead on 24 Jan. Another White-winged Scoter (1^st winter male) appeared at Somerset Long Bay NR 25 Jan –29 Mar (AD, SR). These two birds represent only the third and fourth records for Bermuda. Fourteen wintering Hooded Mergansers is a Bermuda record, with 12 at Spittal Pond and 2 at Warwick Pond (AD). A female Common Merganser was at Watford Bridge 25 Jan (PJH).

Hawks to Puffins

A Sharp-shinned Hawk was a surprise over the Hamilton Harbour Islands 9 May (PW). The second buteo hawk reported in the last newsletter was confirmed as another Red-tailed Hawk. Much excitement has followed with the two birds seen displaying together regularly over Morgan’s Point since mid-March. A Purple Gallinule was on Paget Marsh Pond 6 Jan-Mar (AD). A migrant Killdeer was at Outerlea Farm 8 May (JO, DBW). Two Black-necked Stilts arrived at Spittal Pond 7 May (EA) increasing to a maximum of 8. An Upland Sandpiper (photo left) at East End Dairy 25 Apr (DBW) was a nice spring surprise. A flock of 18 Sanderling at Marley Beach 6 Jan was unusual (AD). Few other migrants shorebirds were recorded, but included Solitary, Semipalmated, Least and Pectoral Sandpipers. A Red Phalarope was picked up injured from Point Finger Road 31 Jan (JG) and died shortly after. The paucity of shearwaters so far this spring has also been mirrored by jaegers. Both Pomarine and Long-tailed Jaegers were seen past Elbow Beach 27 Apr (AD). An adult Laughing Gull was seen in various parts of the island in early May. Of the smaller gulls to arrive, a first-winter Black-headed Gull was at Rockaway 28 Jan (IF, PW) and a flock of 15 Bonaparte’s Gulls was over Spittal Pond Jan (JM, SR). but the gull of the season was Bermuda’s first California Gull, an adult, at Dockyard 1-8 May (PW). A first-winter Iceland Gull was in Hamilton Harbour 3-8 Mar (AD, PW, DBW). A Glaucous Gull flew along North Shore on 15 Jan (JM). A dead Atlantic Puffin was discovered on the beach at Tobacco Bay 14 Mar (PW).

Cuckoo to Bobolink

A Yellow-billed Cuckoo was at Spittal Pond 18 Apr (DBW). At least three Short-eared Owls wintered, with three seen together at the Airport 2 Jan (PW). One of the Short-eared Owls was still at the Airport 18 Apr (DWal). An Eastern Kingbird was seen at Parson’s Road Pond 23 Apr (G&SH). Single Yellow-throated Vireos were seen at Botanical Gardens 13-21 Apr (AD) and AB Smith Reserve 14 Apr (SR). The first of 3 Horned Larks was at Bermuda Airport 31 Jan (EA). American Pipits (14) remained at the Airport 6 Mar (AD). A Bohemian Waxwing was an exceptional find on Port Royal GC 18 Jan (SR), the only record of this species other than a flock of five in 2001. A Yellow Warbler was on St. George’s GC 10 Jan (PW). Few spring migrant warblers were recorded. A Palm Warbler at Marsh Lane 7 May (AD) was a noteable exception. A Swainson’s Warbler on Morgan’s Point 4 Mar (AD, PS) had probably over-wintered. A Wilson’s Warbler was in the Smiths Hills 4 Mar (DWal). One Summer Tanager was recorded (DBW) 10 Apr at Pilchard Bay. Two stunning male Scarlet Tanagers (photo) were seen individually at Tamarind Vale 28 Apr (BH) and again in Warwick 6 May (WF). While scanning through a dozen Savannah Sparrows at Kindley Field 19 Mar, a Vesper Sparrow was heard singing and photographed (AD). The last date of the wintering Swamp Sparrows was one recorded at Spittal Pond 28 Mar (AD). A Lapland Longspur was at Bermuda Airport 7 Feb (AD). The first of a small influx of Rose-breasted Grosbeaks was noted at Compston’s Pond 25 Apr (AD). A Blue Grosbeak was at Spittal Pond 18 Apr (DBW). A Bobolink was singing from a fence post at Spittal Pond farm 8 May (SR).

Escapees

The Greater Flamingo, ‘Flo’, has been sighted all around Bermuda, even making a low-level pass along Front Street during the morning rush-hour 15 Apr (LM). A Sulphur-crested Cockatoo was flying around the Bailey’s Bay area on 22 May (AD).

Observers: Eric Amos, Gerry Ardis, Andrew Dobson, Ian Fisher, Wendy Frith, Jennifer Gray, John O’Halloran, Gene and Susan Harvey, Peter Holmes, Peter Hopkin (PJH), Bertie Horsfield, Ray and Kay Latter (R&KL), Jeremy Madeiros, Leila Madeiros, Steve Rodwell, Keith Rossiter, Penny Soares, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, David Wingate (DBW).

June-July

The highlight of the season has been the successful translocation of Cahow (Bermuda Petrel) chicks to a new breeding site. Translocation had been agreed upon even before Hurricane Fabian (Sept 2003) destroyed a number of nesting burrows. Of 29 fledglings this year, 14 chicks were translocated to Nonsuch Island and all fledged successfully. The same practice will be continued in coming years and gives hope to a continuing increase in breeding pairs in more suitable habitat.

A pair of Pied-billed Grebes again nested at Somerset Long Bay N.R. Bermuda (DW). An ad Red-tailed Tropicbird was seen at Nonsuch Is. Bermuda 21 Jul (JM), possibly the same bird as in 2001 and 2003. Green Herons, which were first proved breeding in Bermuda in 2002, bred in a number of new locations, with a total of about 12 pairs (AD). A Snow Goose remained at Outerlea Farm, Bermuda to 31 Jul+(AD). A male Wood Duck was at Pembroke Marsh, Bermuda 20 Jun (PH, SR). A female Hooded Merganser at Spittal Pond, Bermuda 28-31 Jul+ (DW) provided the first-ever summer record. The pair of long-staying Red-tailed Hawks was seen throughout June over Morgan’s Point, Bermuda (AD, DW). A Purple Gallinule was found dead in Southampton, Bermuda 23 June (DW). Summering shorebirds on Bermuda included Black-bellied Plover (3) and Whimbrel (4) at Bermuda’s airport (EA, PW), single Sanderling on Nonsuch Island (JM, DW) and the first summering record for Pectoral Sandpiper at Spittal Pond (AD, EA). Black-necked Stilts departed North Pond, Bermuda 23 Jul (DW). Bermuda’s first fall shorebirds were noted in early July with Lesser Yellowlegs at Spittal Pond 3 Jul (EA), Spotted Sandpiper in St David’s 10 Jul (PW), Western Sandpiper at Spittal Pond 19 Jul (DW) and Pectoral Sandpiper at Compston’s Pond 9 Jul (AD). Three imm Laughing Gulls were at Dockyard, Bermuda 6 Jun (AD). A Franklin’s Gull was picked up dead at Clearwater Beach, Bermuda 1 Jun (GP). A Gull-billed Tern was at North Pond, Bermuda 18-21 Jun (EA). A Roseate Tern was in Castle Harbour, Bermuda 10 Jul & 21 Jul (DW, JM). Hurricane Fabian, which hit Bermuda 5 Sep 2003, must have devastated the local breeding population of Common Terns because only 6 of the 17 pairs returned in 2004 and these failed to breed. This is the first record of total breeding failure in 50 years of observation (DW).

Observers: Eric Amos, Andrew Dobson, Peter Hopkin, Jeremy Madeiros, Steve Rodwell, Paul Watson, David Wingate.

July to November

The fall period in Bermuda starts in July, with the first shorebirds heading south, and continues through to November with ducks and sparrows. All observers agree that this has been a very poor year in terms of total numbers of birds seen. Although weather systems were not favourable over Bermuda for much of the peak migration period, alarm bells have been sounding for some time on the North American continent for the decline in breeding birds. Nevertheless, a large variety of birds was recorded in Bermuda this fall.

Petrels to Terns

The first Cahow returned 14 Oct (JM). About 16 Cahows were seen from Cooper’s Point late afternoon 3 Nov (AD, PH). Double-crested Cormorants were not noted 25 Oct (EA). An American Bittern was at Seymour’s Pond 3 Nov (EA). The long-staying Little Egret was at Hungry Bay 6 Sept (DBW). A Canada Goose seen over St.David’s 4 Oct (GA) settled at Outerlea Dairy. A male Eurasian Wigeon joined American Wigeons at Spittal Pond 25 Oct (EA). A flock of 12 Ring-necked Ducks was on Parsons Road Pond 1 Nov (DW). A summering Hooded Merganser remained into the fall. October birds of prey included at least two Ospreys and four or five Peregrine Falcons. One of the ‘resident’ Red-tailed Hawks was photographed 13 Sept at Ports Island (DW). A Virginia Rail was taken into captivity at BAMZ 8 Nov (JG). Summering Black-necked Stilts remained into mid-July. The shorebird passage was not as dramatic as in some years. The lack of mud-flats at either Spittal or Warwick Ponds did little to attract birds. The first shorebirds arrived in early July. Notable sightings included: Willet 4 Sept at Dockyard (AD), Western Sandpiper 19 Jul (DBW), Baird’s Sandpiper 12 Sept at East End Dairy (DBW) and 23 to 26 Sept at Astwood Park (AD), and a Curlew Sandpiper at Spittal Pond 17 Oct (AD). A Black-headed Gull 29 Oct to17 Nov was first seen in Castle Harbour (DBW). Most other gulls, including Lesser Black-backed, arrived in late Oct and Nov. A Black Tern was seen off Cambridge Beaches 29 Sept (PW).

Nighthawks to Buntings

A flock of six Common Nighthawks was over Belmont Hills GC 17 Oct (AD). A Ruby-throated Hummingbird was a lucky find at Stokes Point NR 27 Sept to 15 Oct (AD). A Northern Flicker was calling loudly at Port Royal GC 29 to 30 Oct (DW). It has been a good year for flycatcher records. More than a dozen Eastern Wood-Pewees were scattered widely. Amongst the empidonax species, there was one Yellow-bellied Flycatcher 17 to 21 Oct at Coral Beach Club (DW) and two Acadian Flycatchers at Ferry Point 16 to 18 Oct (AD) and Hog Bay Park 18 Oct (AD). A Great Crested Flycatcher remained at Stokes Point Reserve 29 Sept to 3 Oct (DBW). A Yellow-throated Vireo was at Coral Beach Club 17 Oct (DW), while a Blue-headed Vireo was in Walsingham Jungle 15 Oct (JM). The number of swallows has been disappointing. A Northern Rough-winged Swallow was at Wreck Road 5 Oct (EA, DW). A late Bank Swallow was over Daniel’s Head Farm 6 Nov (AD, DBW). A Red-breasted Nuthatch video-taped at Fort Scaur 16 to 17 Oct (EA). Single Golden-crowned Kinglets were at Fort Scaur 13 Oct (DW) and the Arboretum 16 Nov (DW). Thrushes are now so scarce that it will soon be possible to record all sightings in the report. An early American Robin was at Port Royal GC 16 Oct (DW). A Northern Mockingbird was a surprise at Spittal Pond 17 Oct (DBW). An American Pipit was seen at the Airport 3 Nov (PW). Although 35 warbler species have been recorded this fall, their numbers have been depressingly low. Two Golden-winged Warblers were reported, at Cemetery Hill 16 Oct (AD) and Riddell’s Bay GC 30 Oct (DW). A smattering of migrant sparrow species arrived in October as well as a Snow Bunting 30 Oct on Horn Rock (JM). Indigo Buntings have been very common, with one flock containing about 150 birds at Heydon Trust 18 Oct (DW).

Observers: Eric Amos, Gerry Ardis, Andrew Dobson, Wendy Frith, Jennifer Gray, Peter Hopkin, Jeremy Madeiros, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, David Wingate (DBW).

Bird Report 2003

Andrew Dobson

February to May 2003

There have been a number of interesting birds associated with the water, in a season in which migrant land birds are never numerous. Highlights have included the long-staying American White Pelican and Reddish Egret, a White-winged Scoter, Red Phalarope, Catharacta Skua, and the first flock of Common Grackles to reach Bermuda.

Petrels to Ducks

The Cahow continues to make a promising recovery (still separate article). Another

Pterodroma sp. flying west 28 Apr provided Steve Rodwell to get good enough views to see dark upper-wings and dark under-wings with white body. Probably a soft-plumaged petrel (Fea's?) - but impossible to be 100%. If only .... Three Cory’s Shearwaters and three Manx Shearwaters passed Elbow Beach on 23 Feb (AD, SR). As expected, early season shearwater movement was largely confined to Manx Shearwaters with birds moving along South Shore at about one per minute 31 Mar (AD). The best chance of seeing pelagic (ocean-dwelling) birds is to go out at least 4-5 miles off the South Shore. A pelagic trip on the R.V.Stommell 4 May provided the following sightings in 3 hours: Cory’s Shearwater(1), Wilson’s Storm-Petrel (1 attracted to cod-liver oil), Leach’s Storm-Petrel (2 probables), White-Tailed Tropicbird (c.10 offshore), Pomerine Jaeger (3), Parasitic Jaeger (1), Long-tailed Jaeger (1), Arctic Tern (1) (EA, AD et al). The American White Pelican (first discovered 6 Nov 2002) was present throughout the period, seen in various locations in Bermuda but regularly at Spittal Pond. Two Least Bitterns were flushed from Paget Marsh Pond 29 Mar (AD, SR). Bermuda’s first Reddish Egret (discovered 22 Dec) also remained throughout the period – roving between Jews Bay and Mangrove Bay. Green Herons were reported in breeding plumage from Mangrove Lake and Trott’s Pond 30 Apr (EA). A drake Northern Shoveler arrived at Spittal Pond 2 Apr (AD, PS). The White-winged Scoter found in Harrington Sound 7 Feb remained for about a week, but the Surf Scoter with which it was associating, remained until at least 7 Mar. The wintering Common Mergansers were last seen in the Great Sound 21 Mar (DW). A fine male Ruddy Duck was an unseasonal arrival at Parsons Road Pond 20 May (DW).

Kites to Terns

A first of several Swallow-tailed Kites was seen over the Smiths Hills 4 Mar. With sightings over the following three weeks, there were probably four individual birds, with two circling together over Port Royal GC 11 Mar with the Red-tailed Hawk (IF, PW). The hawk has remained in Bermuda since Nov 2001 and was last reported over Hawkins Island 26 Apr (PW). A Northern Harrier was still at the airport 22 Apr (AD). The wintering Virginia Rail was still at Parsons Road Pond 2 Mar (AD). A Purple Gallinule was at Somerset Long Bay reserve 2 May (PJH). A Black-necked Stilt was at Spittal Pond 21 Mar to early Apr, at North Pond 16 May (DW), and two at Spittal Pond 26 May (SR). A Solitary Sandpiper was watched being hotly pursued by Merlin at Spittal 26 Apr (AD, SR, PJH). Seven Sanderling were at Elbow Beach 31 Mar (AD). A female Ruff turned up at Spittal Pond 2 May (EA). A scattering of other spring shorebirds included Lesser Yellowlegs, Semipalmated Sandpiper, Least Sandpiper and Wilson’s Snipe. A Red Phalarope was found at Horseshoe Bay 23 Feb with a broken wing. It died in captivity but provided a very rare spring record. Another interesting corpse was discovered 27 Apr. A dead skua was found in Tucker’s Town by Judy Clee. Almost certainly a South Polar Skua its identity will be verified by DNA analysis. Two recent records of Catharacta skuas in Britain caused doubt as to whether they were dark Great Skuas or South Polar Skuas. DNA testing revealed both to be Brown Skuas (previously unrecorded in Britain!). Jaeger species were recorded from late Apr, with 16 Parasitic Jaegers recorded from Elbow Beach 22 Apr (AD, SR). All three jaeger species were seen off Cooper’s Point 28 Apr (PW) with a flock of 5 Pomerine Jaeger’s off Elbow Beach on the same day (SR, PJH). An adult Laughing Gull was seen in both Dockyard and St. Georges Harbour 22 Apr (AD, PJH, SR). A Royal Tern was on the outer arm at Dockyard 13 Apr (PJH). The first Common Terns returned to Castle Harbour 31 Mar (DBW) and a Forster's Tern was in the same location 12 May for at least a week (DBW).

Flycatchers to Waxbills

The wintering Eastern Phoebe was still at Spittal Pond 25 Mar (AD). An Eastern Kingbird photographed at a bird bath in a Warwick garden (NC) was the earliest ever spring record – present for the last week of March and into April. Chimney Swifts were spotted in Apr and May with a maximum of three over Somerset 25 Apr (PJH). The first Purple Martin was at St Georges Dairy 24 Feb (DW). A small influx of American Robins was noted in Feb with eight at Clearwater 9 Feb (KR) and 12 at Heydon Trust 15 Feb (DBW). The wintering Northern Mockingbird remained until at least 5 Apr in Botanical Gardens (AD). Singing warblers are never numerous, but on 2 Mar, a Yellow-throated Warbler was heard singing in Botanical Gardens, Pine Warblers were in song at both Government House and Port Royal GC while a Common Yellowthroat was singing at Paget Marsh. A skulking Kentucky Warbler was hard to view in Ord Road woodlands (SR). A trickle of spring warbler species included Blue-winged, Magnolia, Black-throated Green and Northern Waterthrush. A Summer Tanager was in Botanical Gardens 23 Apr (DW). The wintering Swamp Sparrow was still present at Spittal Pond 3 Apr (DW). Two White-throated Sparrows were singing in the Arboretum in late Mar (GH). A smattering of other spring migrant passerines included Red-eyed Vireo, Dickcissel, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Blue Grosbeak and Baltimore Oriole. Common Grackles became one of the birds of the spring. A very rare bird in Bermuda with only about six individuals having ever been recorded in Bermuda. Ian Fisher and Paul Watson were thrilled to discover two in Paul’s garden in St. Georges on 7 Mar. Other individual sightings were made in the East End, 12 were seen over Mid-Ocean GC 11 Mar, but on 19 Mar a flock of about 20 grackles was seen in Jubilee Road. The birds, in stunning breeding plumage, remained in Devonshire Marsh until early April. The last reported sighting was from Pitman’s Pond on 12 Apr. A Brown-headed Cowbird (IF) was at Spittal Pond Farm 11 Mar. Both Orange-cheeked and Common Waxbills still survive in Devonshire Marsh, with a flock of more than 12 birds seen in Mar-Apr.

For the record, in reply to certain information being published in the local press – neither David Wingate or myself have advocated the shooting or killing in any way of the parrot flock on the loose in the West End. Our message is to educate the public as to the potential dangers of releasing non-native animals into the wild. Claims this flock has been in the wild for 6-7 years are debatable. Reports of this noisy flock of Blue-fronted Amazons first surfaced to the Society in Nov 2001.

Observers: Eric Amos, Judy Clee, Neil Couper, Andrew Dobson, Ian Fisher, Wendy Frith, Peter Holmes, Peter Hopkin (PJH), Bruce Lorhan, Jeremy Madeiros, Steve Rodwell, Keith Rossiter, Penny Soares, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, David Wingate (DBW).

The summer season typically produces a limited number of bird species with one or two surprises. This year was no exception, with Bermuda’s first record of White-winged Dove and the discovery of Green Heron nests. The fall birding season was seriously disrupted by ‘Fabian’ and to a lesser extent by ‘Isabel’.

June to July 2003

A record 70 pairs of Cahows raised a record 39 young (JM). An immature Masked Booby was videoed accompanying the Bermuda Biological Station’s research vessel during three offshore trips just south of Bermuda in July (JC). Green Heron was first proved breeding in 2002. Two surveys on 27 and 29 July revealed a total of 20 adults and 10 active or vacant nests (DW). A Snow Goose that arrived in the winter continued its stay through the summer period at Outerlea Farm (SR). A Northern Shoveler was present throughout the period at Spittal Pond, the first summering record for Bermuda (EA). The long-staying Red-tailed Hawk was last seen over Daniel’s Head 13 July (PH). Two Black-necked Stilts over Kindley Field 18 June were the first of eight at various locations in Bermuda in late June/early July (PW). Three Willets were in the Great Sound 15 July (AD). First returning shorebirds, Spotted Sandpiper and Least Sandpiper, were seen at Spittal Pond 12 July (DW). A Sandwich Tern flew past Albuoy’s Point 7 June (SR). A further decline in the number of breeding pairs of Common Terns was noted this year with only 18 nests counted (DW). A Yellow-billed Cuckoo (SR) at Spittal Pond 7 June was an unusual summer visitor. A White-winged Dove (AD) in St.David’s 18 to 22 June was the first record for Bermuda (see Newsletter Vol.14 No.3).

August 2003

A Cory’s Shearwater was released onto the open ocean 27 Aug (JM), the first of two releases after they ‘crash-landed’ onto a Bermuda-bound cruise ship. A probable Pacific Golden-Plover was at the Airport 26-27 Aug (PW). Photos and descriptions may help to prove only the second record for this species in Bermuda. A Baird’s Sandpiper, rarely occurring in Bermuda, was at the National Sports Stadium 27 Aug (AD, PJH). A Bobolink near Clearwater 27 Sept was one of the earliest ever fall records (AD, PS).

September 2003

Hurricane Fabian (5 Sept) failed to provide a fall-out of birds, as the eye passed a few miles to our west. Isabel followed shortly after and blocked any significant arrival of migrants as high pressure developed over Bermuda for most of September with an easterly airstream. About 12 Chimney Swift were seen in Somerset as Fabian strengthened about mid-day on 5 Sept (WF). Shorebirds arrived on 7 Sept especially on flooded areas like Cloverdale, where 12 species were present. A Buff-breasted Sandpiper was at the Airport 21 Sept (AD). A Wilson’s Phalarope joined a variety of shorebird species at Jubilee Road 21 Sept (SR). A Great Crested Flycatcher was at East End Dairy 8 Sept (PJH). Good numbers of swallows were present with the main concentrations at Daniel’s Head Farm, Port Royal GC and over the growing vegetation dump on Pembroke Marsh. An above average number of Eastern Kingbirds arrived after Fabian, including a flock of five at Mid-Ocean GC 10 Sept (AD). Warblers have been noticeable by their absence – the worst fall in anyone’s memory. Highlights included two Chestnut-sided Warblers at the A. B. Smith reserve 10 Sept (AD), a Swainson’s Warbler at Port Royal GC 20 Sept (SR), and a number of Kentucky Warblers. Two Common Waxbills were seen at Paget Marsh 1 Sept (AD, PJH).

Early October 2003

Just when we were beginning to think the birding fall would pass us by – a rain-bearing front that arrived at the start of the month produced one of the best falls of migrants in recent years. The variety of warbler species was noteworthy, with at least 33 species recorded in the first 5 days of the month. Highlights so far this month have included a Dunlin at East End Dairy 4 Oct (AD), a hummingbird in St. David’s 5 Oct, Northern Flicker at the A. B. Smith reserve 5 Oct (EA), Grey Kingbird on St. George’s GC 4 Oct (AD), Warbling and Philadelphia Vireos at both ends of the island, single Golden-winged Warblers in Salt Kettle 1 Oct (WF) and Wreck Road 2 Oct (WF). A Brewster’s Warbler at Hog Bay Park 5 Oct (EA). A Cerulean Warbler 5 Oct on Tudor Hill (EA). A smattering of the rarer warbler species have included Tennessee, Blackburnian, Swainson’s, Kentucky, Connecticut, Mourning, Wilson’s, Canada and Yellow-breasted Chat. An immature White-crowned Sparrow was on Paget Island 3 Oct (AD).

Observers: Eric Amos, John Caines, Andrew Dobson, Wendy Frith, Peter Holmes, Peter Hopkin (PJH), Jeremy Madeiros, Steve Rodwell, Keith Rossiter, Penny Soares, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, David Wingate (DBW).

Late October to December 2003

The post-Fabian period has been an exciting one in Bermuda. Two new species were added to the Bermuda list – Scissor-tailed Flycatcher and Le Conte’s Sparrow. A possible Brewer’s Blackbird would also be a new record for Bermuda and warrants further review. The variety of bird species continues to impress and the early winter period has continued the trend with an influx of Robins and Redpolls. At least 230 species of birds have been reported in 2003, which represents about 62% of bird species ever recorded in Bermuda. While space doesn’t allow all the records to be published, some of the more interesting records are made available in the seasonal reports.

Herons to Ducks

Migrant heron and egret numbers are lower than recent years. An immature Black-crowned Night-Heron appears to be roosting with the Yellow-crowned at Pembroke Marsh. An American Bittern was at Pembroke Marsh 4 Nov (SR), while the first of the season’s Least Bittern was at the same location on 8 Nov (AD). A Glossy Ibis was at the Airport 15 Dec (DH). An immature Tundra Swan 16 Nov at Cloverdale Pond (AD) was only the 4^th recorded in Bermuda. It was also seen at Spittal Pond during its two-week stay. Ten Snow Geese are wintering at Outerlea Farm (7) and Mid-Ocean GC (3). A Canada Goose arrived at Jubilee Road 11 Dec (AD) where it still remains. Fourteen species of duck are wintering including Gadwall, American Wigeon (5), Northern Shoveler (3), Northern Pintail (4) and Bufflehead (2). Green-winged Teal has been the most common duck species. A flock of 34 was at Spittal Pond 5 Dec (EA). A flock of 25 American Wigeon flew over Spittal Pond 11 Nov (DBW) and is probably a record count for Bermuda.

Birds of Prey to Terns

A Northern Harrier at Heydon Trust 16 Oct (R&KL) was a prelude to the best ever winter for this species. At least four birds account for sightings at Morgan’s Point, the Hamilton Harbour Islands, Pembroke and Devonshire Marshes and the Airport. The long-staying Red-tailed Hawk remains in the Paradise Lakes area. A second buteo hawk at Morgan’s Point may well be another Red-tailed (an immature lacking a red tail).

Three Peregrine Falcons were seen together over Port Royal GC 24 Oct (DW, PJH et al). A Virginia Rail was at Parsons Road Pond in Nov (PW) while an immature Purple Gallinule was at the same location on 4 Nov (SR). At least six Lesser Yellowlegs have been present in December – an unusually high number for winter. A Solitary Sandpiper, White-rumped Sandpiper and Pectoral Sandpiper stayed at Jubilee road before departing in December. A Pomarine Jaeger flew past Dockyard 28 Dec (PJH). Of the smaller gulls to arrive, a flock of nine Bonaparte’s Gulls was in Harrington Sound 31 Dec (RP), and a single Black-legged Kittiwake was at Watford Bridge 9 Dec (PJH). A Royal Tern was seen in St.George’s in Dec (PW), while a Forster’s Tern was in the Great Sound 5 Nov (PJH).

Passerines

A Black-bellied Cuckoo at Hog Bay Park 18 Oct (AD, SR et al) was the only one of the Fall. A Short-eared Owl on Cooper’s Island 16 Nov (AD) was the first of at least three fall and winter records. A hummingbird species was reported in St. David’s 5 Oct. At least two Northern Flickers have wintered. The first was seen at the A.B. Smith Reserve 5 Oct (EA) while one has regularly be seen at Port Royal GC with other sightings at Riddell’s Bay(SR), Morgan’s Point (AD,DW) and Smith’s Hills (JM). The latest ever Empidonax Flycatcher (Alder/Willow type) was at Heydon Trust 23^rd Nov (DBW). An Eastern Phoebe has wintered at Spittal Pond for the second year running. A Grey Kingbird was on St. George’s GC 4 Oct (AD). The first Scissor-tailed Flycatcher for Bermuda was discovered at Port Royal GC 24 Oct (PJH, DW) – see separate article. Thrush species were very sparse this fall. An influx of American Robins occurred in mid-Nov with a flock of about ten birds remaining on Morgan’s Point during the winter. An American Pipit was at Spittal Pond in early Dec (DW). Thirty-six species of wood warbler were recorded this fall. The only two not to be seen this year were Townsend’s Warbler and Louisiana Waterthrush. Among the unusual warblers, there were Golden-winged Warblers in Salt Kettle 1 Oct (WF) and Wreck Road 2 Oct (WF), a Brewster’s Warbler at Hog Bay Park 5 Oct (EA), and a Cerulean Warbler 5 Oct on Tudor Hill (EA). A Chestnut-sided Warbler at Ferry Point Park 14 Dec (SR) provided only the third wintering record. Other unusual winter records were a Blackpoll Warbler (DW) at Lagoon Park 28 Dec and a Kentucky Warbler at Morgan’s Point 31 Dec (AD, PW). At least eleven species of migrant sparrows have been recorded this fall and early winter. Pride of place goes to the discovery of Bermuda’s first Le Conte’s Sparrow at Pembroke Marsh 17 Nov (NB et al) – see separate article. Clay-coloured Sparrows are uncommon, but there were reports from Lagoon Park (PJH), St. Georges (PW) and two together at Wreck Road 1 Nov (WF). A Lark Sparrow was a surprise on Horn Rock 1 Dec (JM). Four December Swamp Sparrows certainly creates a winter maxima with reports from Lagoon Park (DW), Morgan’s Point (AD), Paget Marsh (DW) and Spittal Pond (AD). The first Snow Bunting was reported from Boaz Island 9 Nov (PJH). Two Blue Grosbeaks at Spittal Pond Farm 14 Dec (AD, JG) provided a rare winter record. A Red-winged Blackbird was at Jubilee Road 15 Dec (MB et al). A possible Brewer’s Blackbird was reported from Botanical Gardens 13 Nov (PJH). A Purple Finch was seen on St. George’s GC 17 Oct (PW. NB et al). An influx of Common Redpolls in mid-Dec provided sightings from Dockyard to St. Georges with the largest flock (9) at Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse 14 Dec (EA). Three Pine Siskins (the first since 1986) were seen on Morgan’s Point 14 Dec (EA).

Escapees

Greater Flamingo ‘Flo’ escaped from BAMZ again in mid-Sept. and has taken up residence at North Pond. Flo is the same bird that was at Spittal Pond for many years before becoming entangled in a kite string at Warwick Pond and taken into care. A splendid male Orange Bishop was at Devonshire Marsh 11 Nov (AD).

Observers: Eric Amos, Margaret Bain, Ned Brinkley, Andrew Dobson, Wendy Frith, Jennifer Gray, Dale Hines, Peter Holmes, Peter Hopkin (PJH), Ray and Kay Latter (R&KL), Jeremy Madeiros, Ron Porter, Steve Rodwell, Keith Rossiter, Penny Soares, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, David Wingate (DBW).

Bird Report 2002

Andrew Dobson

February to April 2002

Most observers agree that this has been one of the poorest early spring periods for bird sightings. Somewhat of a contrast to the excellent Humpback Whale migration that has been observed off-shore! One can only hope that the lack of birds is not reflected on the North American continent. Sometimes we forget that Bermuda is an isolated 21 square miles in the middle of the Atlantic. Most birds have no right to be here anyway and are only drift migrants many hundreds of miles off course. David Wingate suggests that we may never see the spring passage of birds that he can remember from the past – a probable result of global warming. Many of the frontal weather systems either pass well to our north or simply dissipate before they reach Bermuda. There is therefore less bad weather to bring us the birds. Oh for a return to the Ice Age! Highlights since the last report have included Northern Gannet, the reappearance of the Northern Goshawk, up to three Swallow-tailed Kites, a Ruff, wintering Blue Grosbeak and green parrots!

Shearwaters to Rails

A pair of Pied-billed Grebes bred very early at the Society’s Somerset Long Bay reserve. Three chicks were observed on 12^th Feb (DW). A nest has also been built at the nearby Pitman’s Pond. Great excitement also centres on the potential breeding success of this year’s Cahows. At least 40 pairs have already hatched eggs, which is a dramatic rise on previous years. The first Manx Shearwater of the spring was noted off Elbow Beach on 16^th Feb (SR), while the first Cory’s Shearwater was seen off Nonsuch Island on 3^rd Mar (JM, SR). Northern Gannets are uncommon visitors to Bermuda waters. An immature was spotted off Cooper’s Point on 3^rd Mar (JM, SR) remaining until at least 10^th Mar. Great Egrets roosted this year at Waterville with as many as eight on Duck Island or the moored boats (AD). A wintering Eurasian Teal was last seen at Warwick Pond on 14^th Mar (SR). One Swallow-tailed Kite was seen over Trimingham Hill on 27^th Feb. and then remained in the South Shore, Warwick area until 15^th Mar (RL). Two more Swallow-tailed Kites were seen together over the Smith’s Hills on 7^th Mar (JM). Two Northern Harriers remained in the Nonsuch area until mid-Mar (JM, DBW). Two accipiter species soaring together over Castle Harbour on 15^th Apr (DBW) were probably the Sharp-shinned Hawk which has over-wintered and the Northern Goshawk which was also seen in on 21^st Mar over Nonsuch Island (DBW) and Devonshire 24^th Mar (AD).

Shorebirds to Terns

An American Golden-Plover was found roosting on Nonsuch Island on Mar 13 (JM). A Black-necked Stilt was seen flying past the Aquarium on 20^th Apr (AD). It was re-located the following day at North Pond where it had joined the Ruff (EA). The female Ruff (a Eurasian shorebird) was discovered at North Pond (WF, SR) on 18^th Apr. Eight Sanderling were at Grape Bay on 21^st April (AD). Two Least Sandpipers were at Daniel’s Head Farm on 17^th Feb (SR). Lesser Black-backed Gulls continued to increase. A record 27 were counted at Dockyard on 10^th Mar (WF) with a similar number roosting in the Great Sound the following day (SR). Four Black-legged Kittiwakes were observed moving northeast along South Shore at Elbow Beach on 16^th Feb (AD, SR). A pair of Common Terns was back in Castle Harbour on 3^rd Apr (DBW). Four Long-tailed Jaegers were seen from Cooper’s Point on 9^th Mar (AD, SR).

Passerines

Eastern Phoebes were seen on Feb 24^th at Spittal Pond (DBW) and on 23^rd Mar at both Heydon Trust (DBW) and Kindley Field (SR). The first Barn Swallows were at Cooper’s Point on 23^rd Mar (PW), while the first Tree Swallow was over Spittal Pond on 21^st Apr (DW) followed by the first Purple Martins in St. George’s on 22^nd Apr (DW). A Golden-crowned Kinglet (SR) was found at Compston’s Pond on 23^rd Feb (SR). A Hermit Thrush was seen at Port Royal G.C. on 9^th Feb (SR). A Blue-winged Warbler was a surprise at Coral Beach on 15^th Mar (SR). What may well have been an early spring migrant, a Prothonotary Warbler, was seen at Paget Marsh on 20^th Mar (AD, SR). No Swainson’s Warblers had been recorded during the winter, but one at Devonshire Marsh in late Mar (DW) may well have over-wintered. A Swamp Sparrow was seen in Devonshire Marsh on 24^th Mar (AD). A single Dark-eyed Junco was at Spittal Pond on 12^th Feb (JM, DBW). There have been very few records ever of wintering Blue Grosbeaks, so one at Cooper’s Island 15^th Feb (DBW) was a good find. Another Blue Grosbeak was caught by a cat on 2^nd Mar and died in captivity at BAMZ. A wintering Dickcissel was last seen on Nonsuch Island on 16^th Feb (WF). Common Waxbills escaped into the wild in 1975. A small breeding population remained until the mid-1990s when very few sightings were made. Its stronghold was Devonshire Marsh, so a flock of 12 birds on Jubilee Road on 20^th Mar (MD) was not only a surprise but an indication of their continued existence.

While on the subject of escapees – a flock of six green parrots has been seen regularly in the Somerset area, occasionally straying into Southampton. In past years many individual parrots have survived for some time in the wild. It will be interesting to see how long this small flock remains ‘at large’. Please report sighting of these birds or any other interesting sightings to info@audubon.bm

Observers: Eric Amos, Michael Darling, Andrew Dobson, Wendy Frith, Ray Latter, Jeremy Madeiros, Steve Rodwell, Paul Watson, David Wallace (DW), David Wingate (DBW).

April to June 2002

A short period of time to report on since the last newsletter, but there have been some excellent bird records, including Bermuda’s first Mississippi Kite and second Little Egret.

Grebes to Geese

Pied-billed Grebes bred at both Somerset Long Bay (two broods) and Pitman’s Pond (at least one brood). The Cahow (Bermuda Petrel) produced a record 36 fledglings from 65 breeding pairs. Cory’s Shearwater passage saw low numbers passing in May and early June. Greater Shearwaters were uncommon until late May with most birds being well off-shore. Sooty Shearwaters however were seen in good numbers in mid-May with nearly 50 per hour on 23^rd May (SR). Manx Shearwaters are early spring migrants, so very few were seen after April. A Little Egret (WF, EA) was the second ever Bermuda record (first in 1985). A superb bird in breeding plumage was at Pitman’s Pond from 24^th April to 3^rd May. A juvenile bird with an adult Great Blue Heron (PW) on Ferry Reach in June suggested that breeding may well have taken place. At least four Green Herons (WF) birds on 26^th May and early June at Trott’s Pond may well have been attempting to breed. A Snow Goose (RB) – a ‘Blue Goose’ at Port Royal golf course on 12^th May was the first ever spring arrival of this form of snow goose.

Birds of Prey to Terns

A Mississippi Kite (DBW) over Nonsuch Island 20^th May was the first record for Bermuda. The Red-tailed Hawk (DW) was over Morgan’s Point on 27^th April (presumed to be the bird seen in December) and was seen again over Paget Island (PW) on 19^th June. A Black-necked Stilt (AD) flew over Harrington Sound on 20^th April then stayed at North Pond into May. A Eurasian Whimbrel (SR, DBW) at Darrell’s Island on 10^th June, the first for about 10 years. Several sightings of Red Knot were made this spring from 21^st May into early June. A Ruff (WF, SR) was at North Pond 18^th – 24^th April. This has been a very good year for Skua sightings with four birds this spring (either Great Skua or South Polar Skua). Off-shore on May 5^th (GL), over Nonsuch on 16^th May (WF), Devonshire Bay on18^th May (SR) and Elbow Beach on 19^th May (SR, AD). There was also a good passage of the three jaeger species – Pomarine, Parasitic and Long-tailed Jaeger (see article by Steve Rodwell). A second-summer Laughing Gull was seen throughout the period, while a Royal Tern (AD) flew past Grape Bay on 2^nd June and was present all month. A Roseate Tern (EA) was reported from early June. A Gull-billed Tern (AD, EA) was in St.George’s Harbour 16^th-17^th June, while a Sandwich Tern (PW) was at Cobbler’s Island on 20^th June.

Owls to Bobolink

The long-dead remains of a Northern Saw-whet Owl (JM) were found in Jenningsland on 24^th April. A Grey Kingbird (WF, SR) was present at Tudor Farm from 11^th – 13^th May, while a Red-eyed Vireo (JM) was on Nonsuch Island 11^th – 12^th May. Barn Swallows arrived in small numbers during the period. There were a few records of Bank Swallow and Cliff Swallow from the East End of the island. A Veery (WF, SR) was a very good find at Ferry Point on 4^th May (the latest ever spring record). Several Magnolia Warblers were seen in May, making it the most common spring warbler. A stunning male Blackburnian Warbler (WF) was seen at Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse on 12^th May, where it stayed for a few days – a very rare spring migrant. A singing Prairie Warbler (WF) was found at the same site from 12^th – 23^rd May. This species has never previously been recorded in May. Other May warbler sightings included American Redstart, Ovenbird, Northern Waterthrush and Common Yellowthroat. Several Rose-breasted Grosbeaks were noted in April and May, but one at Nonsuch Island on 10^th June (JM,, SR) was the first ever summer record. A Blue Grosbeak (WF, SR) was at Ferry Point on 4^th May, while the only spring Bobolink (EA) was singing at Hog Bay Park on 6^th May. Finally, on an exotic note – not only are the escaped flock of parrots (Blue-fronted Amazons) still being seen in the Southampton area, but a pair has raised two young in a cedar tree!

Observers: Eric Amos, Robert Blakesley, Andrew Dobson, Wendy Frith, Jeremy Madeiros, Steve Rodwell, Paul Watson, David Wallace (DW), David Wingate (DBW).

July to October 2002

The fall season is the most eagerly awaited time of the year for local birders. Most migrants are predictable in their arrival dates while there are always unexpected vagrants to be found. The fall-out of migrant birds in Bermuda is closely related to weather systems (depressions and associated fronts) moving off the North American continent into the Atlantic, as well as the occurrence of tropical storms. Tropical Storm Cristobal (7/8^th August) merged with a frontal trough and brought a large fall of shorebirds. On 9^th August, David Wingate counted 16 species at the airport, including Semipalmated Plover (36), Lesser Yellowlegs (22), Semipalmated Sandpiper (54), Least Sandpiper (133), White-rumped Sandpiper (18), Pectoral Sandpiper (24) and Short-billed Dowitcher (46). Sub-tropical Storm Gustav (8/10^th Sept) brought swallows and warblers, while a strong cold front (18/19^th Sept) brought a scattering of empidonax flycatchers and more warblers. Hurricane Kyle spent many days arcing around Bermuda in late Sept and early October. A rain-bearing front on October 21^st brought one of the best fall-outs of Blackpoll Warblers for many years. These long-distance migrants usually fly south, straight over Bermuda, but in bad weather conditions they may well take advantage of a stop-over. These warblers were seen from Lagoon Park to St. Georges, observers reporting “ten in every casuarina I looked at on Port Royal GC” to “a count of over 100 on part of St. George’s GC”. An estimate of 1,000 birds on Bermuda may well be far below the actual number that arrived. By the end of the week, most Blackpolls had departed. The fall of Blackpolls redeemed an otherwise rather poor migration season, which up to that point Eric Amos had described as never seeing it so poor in more than 32 years. David Wingate frequently recalls the fantastic numbers of migrants to be seen on Nonsuch Island alone in the 1960s. The reality is a world of fewer birds and Bermuda has little power to alter the causes of bird population decline in the Americas. Highlights of this fall season include: Red-billed Tropicbird (only the second adult ever to come in-shore); breeding Green Heron (see Newsletter Vol 13.4); juvenile Surf Scoter (the first for 7 years); Red-tailed Hawk (remaining surprisingly elusive); Wilson’s Phalarope (three together at Jubilee Road on 13^th Sep); Ruby-throated Hummingbird; Olive-sided Flycatcher; Great Crested Flycatcher; Red-breasted Nuthatch; Ruby-crowned Kinglet (three exceptionally early records); Northern Wheatear; Blue-winged Warbler (an earliest recorded date); Brewster’s Warbler (Blue-Winged x Golden-winged Hybrid); Yellow-throated Warbler (three perched together on a casuarina branch on 14^th Oct was exceptional); Cerulean Warbler (three records); and Swainson’s Warbler (about ten records).

Observers: Eric Amos (EA), Bermuda Audubon Society (BAS), Andrew Dobson (AD), Dewi Edwards (DE), Wendy Frith (WF), Jeremy Madeiros (JM), Julie Nicholson (JN), Bernard Oatley (BO), Steve Rodwell (SR), Penny Soares (PS), David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson (PW), David Wingate (DBW).

November 2002 to January 2003

The winter months have brought some extraordinary birds to Bermuda and provided local birders with many new species to add to their list. Highlights of this winter season include Bermuda’s first-ever American White Pelican and Reddish Egret; Black, Surf and White-winged Scoters; Common Mergansers; Northern Lapwing (Bermuda’s 3^rd); Long-eared Owl (2^nd live record); Northern Rough-winged Swallow; Northern Mockingbird (2); Audubon’s Warbler (Bermuda’s 3^rd); Painted Bunting (Bermuda’s 4^th); and Orchard Oriole.

Tropicbirds to Ducks

The first White-tailed Tropicbirds (Longtails) were seen incredibly early this year, perhaps the result of unseasonably warm temperatures at the beginning of January. Birds were seen at Spittal Pond 5 Jan (RH) and again on 10 Jan (KR). A Brown Booby flew past Ferry Point 3 Dec (PS). An immature Northern Gannet was off St. David’s Head 17 Nov & 26 Nov (NB, JM). An immature American White Pelican at North Pond 6 Nov-Jan (DO) furnished the first record for Bermuda. Observers eagerly await the origin of this banded bird. Bermuda’s first Reddish Egret was discovered at Somerset Long Bay 22 Dec (DW) and remained in the Somerset area throughout Jan. An immature Black-crowned Night-Heron was at Devonshire Marsh 6 Jan (DW). A Snow Goose discovered on the Christmas Bird Count (JM), stayed into the New Year. At least 16 duck species have been seen this winter. A superb male Wood Duck has split his time between Parsons Road Pond and Spittal Pond. Three female Gadwall have been seen and a minimum of 16 American Black Ducks. At least 4 Northern Pintail have been seen at various locations since 5 Nov (DE, PS). Green-winged Teal has been the most common migrant duck including a flock of 38 at Parsons Road Pond 9 Nov (AD). A female Greater Scaup at Sea Swept Farm 27 Jan (DW) was the first since 1996. A Black Scoter was viewed at close range in Somerset Long Bay 4 Jan (WF, DW). An immature male Surf Scoter I Jan (AD) at Frank’s Bay later took up residence behind the Aquarium in Harrington Sound. It was joined by a White-winged Scoter 7 Feb (DBW) – the only previous record was in 1967, when two birds were also in Harrington Sound. Two Common Mergansers first seen off Spanish Point 23 Jan (BL, JT) remained in the Jews Bay area throughout much of Jan. As many as nine Red-breasted Mergansers were present, including a flock of six seen regularly off Daniel’s Head.

Birds of Prey to Rails

A Northern Harrier discovered on the Christmas Bird Count (AD), stayed into the New Year at the Airport. The elusive Red-tailed Hawk first seen 23 Nov 2001 was last seen 5 Nov (DE). A Peregrine Falcon has over-wintered at the east end of the island. The following is an extract from AD’s diary for 14^th Dec “Peregrine Falcon causing havoc amongst gulls in the middle of St. Georges Harbour for about 10 mins. Followed to Ferry Reach from where it flew at fence height across the road to the airport. The Lapwing took flight - but then returned to mob the peregrine that was quartering the airfield. The lapwing’s persistence paid off as the peregrine (a young male) lost interest and flew off over the prison farm”. A Virginia Rail 13 Jan (PW) at Parsons Road Pond was initially found with a first-winter Purple Gallinule. The latter bird was found dead next to the Pond 22 Jan (AD) and is now in the BAMZ collection.

Shorebirds to Swallows

An immature Northern Lapwing at the Airport 25 Nov to mid-Jan (DW) was the 3^rd record for Bermuda (previously 1957 and 1987). A flock of 22 Sanderling were on Grape Bay 23 Dec (AD). Individual Lesser Yellowlegs, Least Sandpiper and Short-billed Dowitcher have over-wintered. Of the less common gull species, at least four Bonaparte’s Gulls have been seen, mainly in the Great Sound area. One Common Tern has lingered throughout the period, while three Forster’s Terns have remained in the Great Sound since 10 Nov (BAS). A roosting Long-eared Owl at Fort Scaur 18 Nov (SF) provided the 2^nd live record for Bermuda since the 19^th century! A Short-eared Owl was found dead in Sandys Parish 9 Nov (JG). A second was at Daniel’s Head 17 Nov (EA), while a third was found injured at the Airport 23 Nov (DH) but died in captivity at BAMZ bird rehab center. Another then appeared or moved to the Airport area over Christmas. A male Ruby-throated Hummingbird was at Jenningsland 24 Nov (JM) and another (most likely Ruby-throated) at Paddock Drive 10 Nov (D&KH). An Eastern Phoebe over-wintered at Spittal Pond. A Great Crested Flycatcher was at the Biological Station 26 Nov (EA), the latest fall record by two days. A late Tree Swallow was at John Smiths Bay on 23 Dec (AD). A rare immature Northern Rough-winged Swallow was at Parsons Road Pond 1-2 Dec (AD, SR). There have only been about ten records of this species since the first was recorded in 1976. Amazingly, it was present with a Bank Swallow 1 Dec (the latest date for this species by 25 days!).

Kinglets to Orioles

Kinglets have appeared in good numbers this winter with at least seven Ruby-crowned Kinglets and two Golden-crowned Kinglets. At least six Hermit Thrushes have been recorded in Dec/Jan. A small influx of American Robins was noted in various locations from 8 Nov (DE). A Northern Mockingbird at the Biological Station 20 Nov (EA) was the first since 1996. Another appeared in the Arboretum 2 Dec (DW), staying into the New Year. A flock of 16 American Pipits 14 Dec (AD,SR,PS) were at Airport. An Audubon’s Warbler at Port Royal GC 16 Nov (NB) provided the 3^rd Bermuda record for this sub-species. A total of 21wood-warbler species was seen at Port Royal GC 24 Nov (SR). Two Prothonotary Warblers have over-wintered at Riddell’s Bay and Camden (AD). A Summer Tanager 23 Dec at Coney Is. (RP) was quite unusual. A Vesper Sparrow was at Kindley Field 16 Nov–early Jan (SR, DE). A Swamp Sparrow was at Paget Marsh 12 Nov (SR, DE) while another wintered at Spittal Pond. There was a small influx of Dark-eyed Junco from 8 Nov (JG, DW). Three Snow Buntings were at Dockyard 10 Nov–Dec (BAS). An immature male Painted Bunting at the Biological Station 19 Nov–late Dec (PW) was only the 4th record since 1971 and the first fall record. A Dickcissel was at Southside 16 Nov–Dec (SR). An immature Red-winged Blackbird was at Port Royal GC 10 Nov and joined by another in Dec (SR, EA). An Orchard Oriole 20 Dec (EA) at the Biological Station was the first ever winter record.

Observers: Eric Amos, Bermuda Audubon Society (BAS), Ned Brinkley, Andrew Dobson, Dewi Edwards, Wendy Frith, Stephen Furbert, Jennifer Gray, Dale Hines, Robert Hollis, Dorte and Kevin Horsfield, Bruce Lorhan, Jeremy Madeiros, David O’Neill, Steve Rodwell, Keith Rossiter, Penny Soares, James Tatem, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, David Wingate (DBW).

Bird Report 2001

Andrew Dobson

December 2000 to February 2001

Tropicbirds to Herons

The first Longtails (White-tailed Tropicbirds) were arriving from mid-February, but their return was slower than usual with a northerly airflow for the second half of the month. Nevertheless, the first Cahow chick was noted on 26^th Feb. Cormorants have been scarce this winter. A Great Cormorant first seen on 19^th Dec at Mangrove Bay has been present most of the winter, but only one or two Double-crested Cormorants have wintered this year. All the expected species of herons and egrets have wintered this year with the exception of Cattle Egret. At least three juvenile Black-crowned Night-Herons have been present, most commonly at the Society's Stokes Point Reserve. American Bitterns have been observed in Devonshire and Pembroke Marsh.

Geese to Rails

Of the four Brant Geese that arrived in late Fall, only one remained into December and was still present on the East End Dairy at the end of February. Two immature Snow Geese have also wintered on Mid-Ocean golf course. Sixteen species of duck have been recorded during this season. The less common have included three male Wood Ducks together on Jubilee Road on 7^th Jan. A male Northern Pintail first seen on 27^th Dec has commuted between Seymour's Pond and Spittal Pond. A Bufflehead has remained faithful to Seymour's Pond since 7^th Jan. Blue-winged Teal has been the most common wintering duck species with up to fifty present on Spittal Pond. American Coots have also been very common this winter, with over 150 at Spittal Pond and a further 50 on Jubilee Road. Purple Gallinules, uncommon in winter, have been seen regularly in Pembroke Marsh, Devonshire Marsh East and Jubilee Road. Sora have also been difficult to find, so four at Pembroke Marsh on 25^th Feb were a good find.

Birds of Prey to Shorebirds

Ospreys are not uncommon at this time of year and at least two birds over-wintered. Peregrine Falcon was rarely recorded in the winter until the 1990’s; perhaps a sign of global warming that has not driven birds as far south. One wintered at the east end of the island and was still present at the end of February. A flock of 17 Whimbrel has remained at the Civil Air Terminal throughout the season, often observed at close range on low water mudflats at Stocks Harbour. A flock of seven Least Sandpipers at Westover Farm on 27^th Dec was unseasonal. Two Forster's Terns at Dockyard on 19^th Dec were present into February.

Flycatchers to Shrike

An Eastern Phoebe at Mid-Ocean golf course on 22^nd Feb was a good find, but the flycatcher of the winter, if not THE bird of the season was an Ash-throated Flycatcher at Southside. First discovered in November it was still present at the end of February. Ruby-crowned Kinglets are present in most winters, but Golden-crowned Kinglets are much rarer. This winter, the latter species wintered at Spittal Pond and another was seen at Port Royal golf course on 14^th Jan. Wintering thrushes have been hard to find. Hermit Thrushes have been noted at Hog Bay Park, Hungry Bay and Spittal Pond, while at least four American Robins have been seen regularly in Walsingham. A Northern Shrike was discovered at the airport on 27^th Dec and remained into February.

Warblers to Sparrows

Bermuda's mild climate enables many species of warblers of over-winter. At similar latitudes in the North American continent these birds couldn't survive. At least twenty-four species of warblers were recorded this winter including a Yellow Warbler on 20^th Jan, which was in the company of an Orange-crowned Warbler at Port Royal golf course. On the same day, a Prothonotary Warbler was also seen at Wreck Road. Observed on a number of occasions in the Smith’s Hills was a Kentucky Warbler, another extremely rare winter warbler. Sparrows did their best to steal the limelight this winter. The 3^rd Dec was one of those red-letter days when a group of visiting and local birders were at the airport enjoying views of the Ash-throated Flycatcher, Merlin Osprey, Snow Bunting and a variety of shorebirds – but the memory will be of three migrant sparrow species - Vesper, Grasshopper and Savannah – all in the same binocular field of view! Other sparrow species have also been recorded, with a Swamp Sparrow at Bartram’s Pond on 1^st Jan., a Lincoln’s Sparrow at Warwick Pond on 4^th Jan. and a Fox Sparrow at Port Royal golf course on 14^th Feb.

Contributors: Eric Amos, Andrew Dobson, Ian Fisher, Wendy Frith, Bob Machover, Jeremy Madeiros, David Wallace, Paul Watson, Martin Wernaart, David Wingate.

March to May 2001

One of the highlights of this season has been the breeding success of Pied-billed Grebes, a rare event in any year. One pair raise three young at the Audubon Society’s reserve at Somerset Long Bay while another pair raised two more at the adjacent Pitman’s Pond. Hopes are high for this year’s breeding population of Cahows. If the thirty-three hatchlings all survive, this would be a record number. How nice this would be as 2001 marks the 50^th anniversary of the Cahow’s re-discovery.

An immature Masked Booby, a very rare visitor to Bermuda’s waters, was seen at Gurnet Rock on 21^st March. So far this spring, scanning for pelagic species off South Shore has been disappointing with a lack of favourable on-shore winds. Manx Shearwaters were seen during March, and late April did offer the chance to see jaeger and tern species migrating northwards. Tern species of note included a Royal Tern at Watford Bridge on 29^th April and a Roseate Tern off Nonsuch on 11^th May. Most wintering ducks had departed by the end of April, so a male Ring-necked Duck on Spittal Pond in May was quite unusual. Not unusual, but never guaranteed in any year is Swallow-tailed Kite. Many people were lucky enough to enjoy views of this magnificent bird that stayed for at least a week, being first noted over Devonshire Marsh on 17^th March. A Yellow-billed Cuckoo was seen near Watch Hill Park on 12^th May. The Ash-throated Flycatcher first discovered in November of last year was still present at Southside on 11^th May. One can only speculate as to where it will end up if and when it finally departs. Its breeding range is southwest USA. The first Purple Martin was reported from Stocks Harbour on 14^th March, but not many more have followed. A burst of swallows did occur in April but warblers have been few and far between. It is always a challenge to find warblers in May, but Nonsuch Island struck lucky with a male Blackpoll Warbler, female Yellow-rumped Warbler and two female Common Yellowthroats in mid-May. A Magnolia Warbler as also seen in Walsingham on 11^th May. Red-winged Blackbirds are never common in Bermuda, but three males advertised themselves by singing in the Botanical Gardens, Nonsuch Island 16^th April and Somerset Long Bay. Five Bobolinks were at Ruth’s Point on 13^th May.

Latest news: a Red-billed Tropicbird prospecting nest holes at Nonsuch Island from 18^th to 20^th May. Sooty Tern hit by aircraft 22^nd May. Sandwich Tern in Castle Harbour on 24^th May.

Contributors: Andrew Dobson, Rory Gorman, Jeremy and Leila Madeiros, David Wallace, David Wingate and Paul Watson.

June to July 2001

Shearwaters still pass by Bermuda in late June and early July. A pelagic trip on 23^rd June counted 22 Greater Shearwaters and 4 Cory’s Shearwaters. Of particular note was a single Manx Shearwater, thought to be the latest ever seasonal record. Non-resident duck species are rarely recorded in the summer, but a Ring-necked Duck was still present at Spittal Pond on 8^th June. There have been a number of records of Sooty Tern in recent years. This summer was no exception, with sightings off Nonsuch Island on 16^th July and again from 27^th to 29^th July. A Solitary Sandpiper was seen at North Pond on 5^th July. Not only did this date mark the start of returning shorebirds in Bermuda – but this was also the earliest fall Solitary by seven days. A Red Knot at Cooper’s Island on 31^st July was probably the only one recorded this year. Semipalmated Sandpiper is uncommon in June but one was present at Spittal Pond on 8^th June. The highlight of the season was a Sharp-tailed Sandpiper at North Pond from 29^th July to 6^th August, only the fourth record for Bermuda and the first since 1979. Most unseasonal was an American Woodcock on 1^st June at Dolly’s Bay, the first summer record for this species. A Yellow Warbler on 26^th July at Nonsuch Island was the first returning fall warbler species.

Contributors: Eric Amos, Andrew Dobson, Jeremy Madeiros, Leila Madeiros, David Wallace, Paul Watson and David Wingate.

August 2001 to January 2002

For many observers, the fall migration was disappointing in terms of numbers of birds recorded. Whether it reflects a declining number of birds in North America is debatable, but local factors were not favourable for attracting and keeping birds. There were long periods without suitable frontal systems to bring birds from the continent; Warwick and Spittal Pond were bank full all season revealing little in the way of muddy margins; and arable fields were ploughed early leaving little weedy habitat. A number of late season storms, notably Tropical Storm Karen, which became a hurricane as it passed over Bermuda (Oct.11/12) denuded Bermuda of much vegetation. As well as fallen trees, salt spray damaged much foliage, which took some weeks to recover. Nevertheless, there were some real highlights especially in the late fall and winter, including Brown Pelican, Northern Goshawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Red-breasted Nuthatch, House Wren (2), Bohemian Waxwing, Lark Sparrow and White-winged Crossbill (2).

Shearwaters to Rails

A Cory’s Shearwater (RP) off North Shore, Dec 14 is a rarely recorded species in winter. A Leach's Storm-Petrel (HW) Sept.19 came aboard a tour boat off St. David's and was released the following day. An immature Brown Pelican was first noted at Burgess Point, Jan 8 where it has remained for the month. A Eurasian Teal (AD) found at Pembroke Marsh, Dec 16 was still present in late January. Two Red-breasted Mergansers (AD, SR) at Daniel’s Head, Dec 8 were relocated in the Great Sound on the Christmas Bird Count. The first Northern Harrier (DBW) of the season was noted on the Castle Islands, Oct 18 with at least two present in Dec/Jan. A Sharp-shinned Hawk (AD) at Spittal Pond, Oct 10 was the first of several fall sightings. A Northern Groshawk (WF, DBW) over Abbot's Cliff, Jan 18 was the fist since 1985. A Red-tailed Hawk (DBW, WF) over Alton Hill, Nov 23 was totally unexpected but provided a real treat for those who participated in the Society's fieldtrip around Seaswept Farm. The last two records were in 1983 and 1929! It remained to mid-December. The only Virginia Rail (DBW) of the fall was at Devonshire Marsh, Nov 17. Soras were relatively common, with 10 (AD) an unusually high number at Pembroke Marsh, Dec16.

Shorebirds to Terns

An American Golden-Plover (AD, SR) at Daniel’s Head, Dec 8 is uncommon in December. Semipalmated Plovers (JM et al) occasionally winter and two were regularly at Daniel’s Head beach. Sightings of the endangered Piping Plover are always noteworthy. They were recorded on Aug 21at the Airport – an aircraft kill (DBW); on Aug 29 at Elbow Beach (SR); on Sept 7 at the Airport (SR); and on Oct 3 at Cooper’s Island (DBW). A Dunlin (JM) was at Daniel’s Head, Nov 13. An American Woodcock (HW) was reported from St. David's, Nov 30. Just as there are increasing numbers on the U.S.east coast, Lesser Black-backed Gulls have become more common in Bermuda in recent years, so a record 19 birds (SR) at Dockyard, Nov 29 was not unexpected. A Black-legged Kittiwake (DW) was present from early Dec into 2002. A Gull-billed Tern (AD) at Dockyard Sept 9 to Oct 8 was a very rare fall record. Forster’s Tern is often recorded in winter and one has wintered this year Castle Harbour, seen regularly along the Causeway. The only Black Tern unfortunately died in captivity at BAMZ on Sep.13.

Owls to Waxwings

The remains of a Long-eared Owl were found at St. George’s Cemetery, Nov 14 (SR). Unfortunately, there are more records of dead Long-eared Owls than live ones in Bermuda. Common Nighthawks were indeed more common this fall. The flock of 14 birds (AD) was reported from Belmont GC, Oct 1. A Northern Flicker (SR) was seen at St. George’s GC, Nov 3. A scattering of Yellow-bellied Sapsucker records included two together (AD) at the Arboretum, Nov 1. One or two Eastern Phoebes are recorded annually, but this fall there were at least six individuals with two over-wintering at Spittal Pond and Kindley Field. Cliff Swallows arrived in good numbers this year. A record flock of up to 40 birds (PW) was at the East End Dairy, Aug 26. The less common vireos were hard to find. A Yellow-throated Vireo (AD) was seen in the Botanical Gardens, Oct 14. A Warbling Vireo appeared briefly (AD, SR) on Port Royal GC, Sept 22. A Philadelphia Vireo (AD) was at Coral Beach Club, Oct 10, and a Blue-headed Vireo (SR) was in the Arboretum, Nov 3. Red-breasted Nuthatch is a real rarity in Bermuda. One at Ferry Point Park, Nov 10 (SR et al) was only the 6^th record in 30 years. Equally rare is the House Wren. Visiting birder Ian Fisher discovered one at St. George’s Cemetery, Nov 4. It was then obvious that two birds were present (both singing males), which remained into 2002. A Golden-crowned Kinglet (DW) was at Ireland Island Cemetery, Dec16. Thrushes seem to become harder to find every year, so any thrushes are worth mentioning. A Grey-cheeked Thrush (AD) was at Tudor Farm, Oct 27. Swainson’s Thrushes (AD, JM) were seen at Jenningsland, Paget Island and Port Royal GC between Oct 7-9. An American Robin (JM) was observed in Penhurst Park, Oct 8. A Northern Mockingbird (RB) was reported from Port Royal GC, Nov 10. American Pipits (AD) arrived at Kindley Field, Jan 5. Three Bohemian Waxwings (JG) were seen on Dec 28 at Dock Hill – a new record for Bermuda. The eventual five birds were last seen on Dec. 6^th

Warblers to Crossbills

Of 38 warbler species recorded in Bermuda, all but Townsend’s and Cerulean Warbler were recorded this fall. A single Golden-winged Warbler (DW) was at Horseshoe Bay, Sept 15. A Palm Warbler (DBW) at Ferry Reach, Sept 7 was the earliest record by about 6 days. Swainson’s Warblers were more common than usual. Three in a day in Somerset (DW) on Sept 26 was most unusual. A Yellow Warbler (SR) at Port Royal GC, Jan 26 and a Kentucky Warbler (JM) in the Smiths Hills, Nov 29 and still present in December both provided rare wintering records. Three Summer Tanagers (AD et al) on St. George’s GC Sept 30 was unusual and one found in Botanical Gardens (DW) on Jan 21 was exceptional. A flock of nine Scarlet Tanagers on Ocean View GC, Oct 3 was also noteworthy. The only Chipping Sparrow (IF) was at St. Cemetery Hill, Nov 13. Clay-coloured Sparrows were recorded at Lagoon Park, Sept 18 (DBW) and Kindley Field, Oct 27 (SR). A Lark Sparrow (EA) at Ferry Point Park, Oct 22 was only the 5^th record for Bermuda. Song Sparrows (SR) were seen at Kindley Field, Oct 27 (two birds) and Lagoon Park, Nov 18. A Snow Bunting (SR) was seen at Little Head Park, Nov 14. A Dickcissel (DBW et al) was on Nonsuch Island, Nov 12, while one at Prospect Fields (SR) on Dec 12 was one of three individuals seen in December. Two Red-winged Blackbirds (AD, PH) were recorded during the annual CBC at Spittal Pond, Dec 16. An immature Brown-headed Cowbird (AD et al) at East End Dairy, Oct 6 was seen during the Audubon bird camp. A pair of White-winged Crossbills (JH, AD) at Astwood Park, Nov 14-17 provided another extremely rare bird record. An Evening Grosbeak (GP) was present in Botanical Gardens, Dec 31 to Jan 5.

Observers: Eric Amos, Robert Blakesley, Andrew Dobson (compiler), Ian Fisher, Wendy Frith, Jennifer Gray, Junior Hill, Jeremy Madeiros, George Peterich, Steve Rodwell, Paul Watson, David Wallace (DW), David Wingate (DBW), Helge Wingate

Bird Report 2000

Andrew Dobson

December 1999 to February 2000

December and the first half of January saw very dry conditions with above average temperatures. January 1^st hit 75.4 deg. F (24.1 deg. C). Since mid-January, temperatures have been below average with above average amounts of rainfall. The temperature on January 15^th fell to 44.9 deg. F (7.2 deg. C) – the lowest for 50 years. There have been some unseasonal and unusual reports – birds normally found further north or to our south, as well as some arrivals from the other side of the Atlantic.

Petrels to Terns

The first Cahows of the new millennium have already hatched. The exciting news concerning Cahows is the increasing frequency with which they are being seen during the late afternoon from vantage points such as Cooper’s Point. A Brown Pelican has spent much of the winter here, delighting many observers. First seen in the Great Sound on March 29^th(MW) it has favoured Harrington Sound and the vicinity of Spanish Point. A Magnificent Frigatebird can pass through Bermuda at any time, but one seen on Jan.8^th (AD, KD) at Dockyard was unusual in that it stayed for at least five days. Two European duck species arrived this year. A female Eurasian Wigeon appeared at Camden Marsh on Jan.28^th (EA) - present into March, while a much rarer Tufted Duck was identified at Warwick Pond on March 5^th (AD). This bird is still present at the time of writing and the handsome black and white duck is the first adult male to be recorded in Bermuda. There have only been three previous records, all in the 1990’s, involving brown females or immatures. Unusual wintering shorebirds included a Greater Yellowlegs and a Long-billed Dowitcher at Pitman’s Pond in Somerset. A single Dunlin was regularly seen at Spittal Pond or at the airport. Lesser Black-backed Gulls are now regular each winter with a high count this year of at least seven individuals on Feb.13^th (IF, PW) at the West End. A Forster’s Tern graced Great Bay St. David’s on Jan.28^th (DW) where it remained to be joined by another on Feb.2^nd.

Owls to Redpolls

While scanning for Cahows off Cooper’s Point on Jan.30^th, SD and DW stumbled upon a Short-eared Owl and Northern Shrike. That presumed same shrike stayed in the East End into March and was heard singing at Lover’s Lake on Mar.9^th (WF). A Yellow-throated Vireo was an unusual winter sighting on Jan.5^th at Ocean View GC (WF). A Horned Lark was amongst a flock of Snow Buntings at the Civil Air Terminal on Feb.12^th (IF). Kinglets are always few and far between. The Golden-crowned Kinglet is not recorded every year, so one at Port Royal GC on Jan.23^rd (AD) was a good find. American Pipits always seen to favour the short grass of the airport. Three on Dec.4^th (DW) had increased to nine by Jan.16^th. About 22 warbler species were recorded this winter. The most surprising was a Yellow Warbler seen at St. George’s Cemetery on Feb.16^th (PW, IF, DW). Also unseasonal was a Summer Tanager in the Arboretum from Dec.14^th to 18^th (IF, PW). There was a large influx of Snow Buntings this winter. The highest count was 103 at Clearwater on dec.7^th (SD). The rare Pine Grosbeak that arrived on Nov.14th (JM, LM) was still present in the Somerset area in until January. Common Redpolls also arrived. A flock of 15 in St. David’s on Dec.6^th (DW) was still present in January.

Many thanks to the following for their sightings: Eric Amos, Andrew and Katrina Dobson, Steven DeSilva, Ian Fisher, Wendy Frith, Jeremy and Leila Madeiros, Paul Watson, Mark Wood and David Wingate.

March and April

Departing birds: The unusual but confiding female Eurasian Wigeon was last seen on 14^th April at Camden Marsh while the drake Tufted Duck with obvious ‘tuft’ moved from Warwick Pond to Spittal Pond where it was last seen on 29^th April. The Short-eared Owl seen occasionally in the Cooper's Island area was last seen at Cooper's Point on 8^th March. A Horned Lark was still present at the Civil Air Terminal on 9^th March, while five Snow Buntings were at the same location on 22^nd March. The Summer Tanager discovered at the Arboretum in February was still there on 15^th March. Three Savannah Sparrows still remained at Kindley Field on 4^th May.

Spring Migrants: Mid-March witnessed a good passage of pelagic seabirds. Manx Shearwaters were moving eastwards at up to 40 per hour on 17^th March accompanied by the occasional Cory’s Shearwater. To see storm-petrels it is necessary to go well off-shore. A Wilson’s Storm-Petrel was seen during a whale-watching trip some 11 miles to the southwest just off Challenger Bank on 22^nd April. A Brown Pelican (presumably a different bird to the one much earlier in the year) flew past the former Club Med property on 21^st April. A Purple Gallinule was present during most of April at Paget Marsh Pond. A Killdeer was seen at St. Georges Dairy on 19^th April. A calling Sooty Tern was a great find in the Castle Harbour Islands on 30^th March, while a more expected tern - a Royal Tern was in the same vicinity between 8-20^th April. Another scarce tern, the Least Tern was in Stocks Harbour on 28-29^th April. A passage of Jaegers (Pomarine, Parasitic and Long-tailed) was noted on 16^th April from the South Shore – some in pursuit of terns (probably Arctic Tern). A single Eastern Kingbird was watched fly-catching from the airport fence at Clearwater on 8^th April while a rare spring migrant, a Grey Kingbird, was at The Talbot Estate on 7^th May. Small numbers of Purple Martins and Barn Swallows have been seen throughout April, but a flock of nine Bank Swallows at Seymour’s Pond on 21^st April is probably a spring maxima for this species. Three Chimney Swifts were seen flying over Jenningsland on 29^th April and a further two were flying over Cedar Grove fields on 31^st April. Having previously been seen alive, a dead Grey-cheeked Thrush was taken from a cat in Smith's Parish on 5^th May. An American Robin was in full voice in Jenningsland on 17^th March. Cedar Waxwings obviously arrived during April with flocks reported in a number of localities including 16 flying above acrobats at the Agricultural Show on 28^th April. Jenningsland hosted a Red-eyed Vireo on 23^rd April. The Botanical Gardens was the location for a much sort after spring migrant – a male Scarlet Tanager, which was noted on 21^stApril. A bright male Rose-breasted Grosbeak was seen at Port Royal golf course on 1^st April with two more at the end of the month in Jenningsland. On a somber note, the passage of spring shorebirds has almost been non-existent. There are never many warbler species passing through at this time of the year, but they have also been extremely difficult to find. A male Black-throated Blue Warbler is very unusual in the spring, but one was present in the Riddell’s Bay mangroves on 5^th May. A singing Dickcissel was a real surprise on 2^nd April in Paget.

Summer arrivals: With Cahows established on their nest sites since the beginning of the year, only two other bird species return to Bermuda to breed in the summer months. The Longtail (White-tailed Tropicbird) arrived in small numbers in February but by March and into April were a common sight around our coastline. The Common Tern has become the scarcest of our three breeding bird species. Only about twenty pairs breed and the first returning bird was noted on 1^st April at Grotto Bay.

Finally, many people have commented on seeing a Flamingo at Warwick Pond. This bird is the one that has been at Spittal Pond for many years, an escapee from the zoo collection. The bird often seems to get restless at this time of year and has been commuting regularly between the two ponds.

June: The summer is something of a nadir for birds, between the spring and fall migrations. The resident birds are attempting to raise young and keep cool, while most local birders are similarly seeking the shade, the sea or birding overseas! Man’s migratory pattern is opposite to that of birds – a mass movement in the summer and winter for holiday relaxation. David Wingate and Jeremy Madeiros were honoured to guide two distinguished tourists around Nonsuch Island in June. President Jimmy Carter and his wife were able to add Cahow to their life lists on June 8^th and just for good measure recorded Bermuda’s first summering record of Double-crested Cormorant. Unfortunately this bird was found dying in Tucker’s Town on July 9^th entangled in fishing line. A Royal Tern was seen at Elbow Beach on June10^th and 11^th. Also in mid-June, Greater and Cory’s Shearwaters could still be seen passing northeastwards off the South Shore. Non-resident summering birds include Great Blue Herons, Green Heron (2), Osprey (2), American Coot, Whimbrel (8) and an immature Great Black-backed Gull. Very intriguing was the sight of a displaying Green Heron (with another male heard) on 12^th South Pond. One was still present on 30^th July but there was no evidence of breeding.

July: Fall migration is far more evident from August but there are always some early arrivals in July. This year was no exception with a Belted Kingfisher on Nonsuch on July 2^nd. The first shorebirds soon followed with a Black-necked Stilt in the company of a Lesser Yellowlegs at Spittal Pond on July 4^th. The last remaining Cahow departed on July 10^th. The first migrant warbler was predictably a Louisiana Waterthrush in Jenningsland on July 18^th. At the end of July and the beginning of August there was a large fall of Barn Swallows. Certainly the largest influx in recent memory, they were found in every part of the island and day counts of 100 birds could easily be made.

August: A Common Nighthawk seen neat Shelly Bay on August 1^st remained for several days. A Bridled Tern in Castle Roads on August 4^th may prove to be the bird of the fall. Although it only lingered for a short time, it was the first record since 1978. Throughout August the expected species of shorebirds and warblers arrived for a brief stopover. One good "tern" deserves another, and an “all black” Black Tern in Castle Harbour on August 18^thduly obliged. A Peregrine Falcon was at the same location on August 19^th. Also on the 19^th, a Black-billed Cuckoo on Nonsuch Island, and an endangered Piping Plover at Castle Harbour.

September: A flock of American Black Ducks flying over Eastern Blue Cut on Sept.5^th is the earliest fall date for that species. The water level in ponds around the island has been very high his year, providing little mud-flat habitat for shorebirds. The brief exposure of mud at the eastern end of Warwick Pond from 6^th to 8^th Sept. did provide a feeding area for a daily count of 100 small peeps, mostly Semipalmated and Least Sandpipers. Views of a possible female Painted Bunting at Bartram's pond on Sept.9^th proved inconclusive. However, THE birding event of the season was the fall out from “Florence” – a minimal Category 1 hurricane that passed to our northwest in the early hours of Sept. 16^th. This "gale-in-the-night" (rather than "nightingale") was followed closely by a cold front, the combination of the two weather systems producing one of the best fall-out of warblers in many years. During the following days, mixed flocks of warbler species could be found around the island especially in casuarina trees and mangroves. Most evident were Black-and-white Warblers and American Redstarts amongst over 30 warbler species recorded at that time. Species such as Blackburnian Warbler and Chestnut-sided Warbler, usually hard to find in the fall, were easily found in a variety of locations. Although warblers may have stolen the limelight, other avian delights were to be found in overgrown fields such as those at Hog Bay Park. At least 300 Bobolinks were seen feeding in pumpkin fields with up to 25 Baltimore Orioles on Sept.18^th (probably a record day count for the latter species). Newly arrived shorebirds also found the refuge of Bermuda, establishing themselves on golf course fairways in particular. Of note were sightings of separate Ruff at St.George's Dairy and Mid-Ocean golf course on Sept.16^th and a rarely recorded species, Baird's Sandpiper, at the airport on the same day. A Northern Harrier was also at this east end location on Sept.19^th. A flock of 30 Cliff Swallows at St. George's dairy coincided with the arrival of a cold front weather system on Sept.27^th. What will October bring?

Many thanks to the following for their sightings: Eric Amos, Jimmy Carter, Bobbii Cartwright, Andrew Dobson, Graham Lamb, Jeremy and Leila Madeiros, Ron Porter, Paul Watson, Martin Wernart and David Wingate.

October to November 2000

October was one of the wettest on record with 8.72 inches of rain. One casualty of the weather was the cancellation of the annual bird watching camp, not once, but twice! Nevertheless – an impressive 137 species were recorded on the October World Bird Count. Wet weather continued into November with another 3 inches of rain in the first two weeks. So what did all this wet weather bring us?

Cahow to Herons:

The most alarming report of the month concerned the finding of Cahow remains on the Baselands on 2^nd Dec. (DBW) almost certainly the result of a Peregrine Falcon kill. A probable Northern Gannet flew along North Shore on 24^th Nov. (SD). Many Great Blue Herons arrived on 22^nd Nov. including 15 at Spittal Pond and 6 on Nonsuch (DBW)

Wildfowl:

Perhaps the highlight of the season was the arrival of four Brant Geese at St. George's Dairy on 31^st Oct. (LG). All immatures of the B.b.horta race, only two remained after 2^nd Nov. There have only been three previous records of Brant Geese since the first was recorded in the mid-1960s. Jubilee Road attracted a Canada Goose on 2^nd Nov. (AD) which was relocated on Port Royal GC in the company of an adult Snow Goose. The latter goose first arrived at Somerset Long Bay on 17^th Nov. (DW). An immature Snow Goose was recorded in St. George’s Harbour later in the month (PW). There were 13 Green-winged Teal in Devonshire Marsh and a further 32 on Spittal Pond on 22^nd Nov. (DBW) but most had departed the following day. A drake Eurasian Wigeon (JM) was on Nonsuch Island freshwater pond on 14^th Nov. More than a dozen duck species had been recorded by the end of November. American Coot numbers grew steadily during November, with over 120 on Spittal Pond and 40 in Devonshire Marsh.

Shorebirds to Gulls:

With the large amount of rainfall, flooded areas have seen the prolonged stay of many shorebird species. The flooded fields along Jubilee Road have hosted a wide range of species well into November, including: Black-bellied Plover, Semipalmated Plover, Killdeer, Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, Solitary Sandpiper, Spotted Sandpiper, Semipalmated Sandpiper, White-rumped Sandpiper and Pectoral Sandpiper. On 21^st Oct. there were 26 Common Snipe at the same location – many more were probably hidden out of sight. A first-winter Black-headed Gull was on the Dockyard jetty 22^nd Oct (AD)

Flicker to Pipits:

A Northern Flicker was a surprise on Vesey Street on 31^st Oct. (JM). An Eastern Wood-Pewee was at Fort Scaur on 25^th Oct. (AD). An Eastern Phoebe was in Devonshire Marsh on 1^st Dec. (DBW). Also at Fort Scaur, a Great Crested Flycatcher on 24^th Nov. (SF). The flycatcher of the fall was an Ash-throated Flycatcher (MW), only the third ever recorded in Bermuda. First seen on 21^st Nov., it was still present in mid-Dec. Kingbirds have been scarce, but all three species turned up at Mid-Ocean GC. Western Kingbird 12^th Oct. (AD), Eastern Kingbird (DBW) and Gray Kingbird (DBW). Both Golden-crowned and Ruby-crowned Kinglets were present at Spittal Pond on 1^st Dec. (DBW). Thrush species have been very difficult to find, so a Swainson's Thrush in Jenningsland on 8^th Oct. is noteworthy (JM). Fewer of the less common migrant vireos have been reported this year. A Yellow-throated Vireo was present in Jenningsland from 6^th to 12^th Oct. (JM) with another at the Bio Station on 1^st Dec. A flock of 20 American Pipits was seen at the airport on 5^th Nov. (AD).

Warblers to Buntings:

Swainson's Warbler's were reported from a number of locations including Port Royal on 4^th Oct. (AD), Hog Bay Park on 25^th Oct. (AD) and Spittal Pond on 2^nd Nov. (AD). Late reports of Kentucky Warblers suggest that they may over-winter. One was at Hog Bay on 13^th Nov. (WF) with another in Smiths Parish on 10^th Nov. (JM). Yellow-breasted Chats are always scarce but one was seen at Fort Scaur on 1^st Nov. (WF). Of the 38 species of warblers to have been recorded in Bermuda, the only species not recorded this year was Townsend's Warbler (an extreme rarity). Fall migration also witnesses the passage of migrant sparrows, some of which will over-winter. Reports this season include the regulars like Chipping, Savannah, Grasshopper, Lincoln’s and White-throated as well as the less common including Clay-coloured Sparrow on 8^th Oct. at Hog Bay Park (AD), White-crowned in late Oct. at Port Royal GC (MA), Fox Sparrow on 13^th Nov. in Hog Bay Park (WF), Swamp at the Bio Station on 1^st Dec. and single Vesper Sparrows on 13^th Nov. at Hog Bay Park (WF) and 2^nd Dec. on the Baselands (DBW). The first Snow Bunting was reported from Clearwater on 31^st Oct. (PW).

Also of note in the migration season was a Question Mark butterfly in Somerset on 14^th Nov. (DW) – a very rare migrant to Bermuda.

Many thanks to those who have contributed their sightings: Marc Allaire, Eric Amos, Bobbii Cartwright. Andrew Dobson, Lisa Greene, Stephen Furbert, Peter Holmes, Bruce Lorhan, Jeremy and Leila Madeiros, Penny Soares, David Wallace (DW), Paul Watson, Martin Wernaart, David Wingate (DBW)

Bird Report 1999

Andrew Dobson

January to August 1999

A Magnificent Frigatebird was in various locations 28-30 Mar. A Eurasian Teal was on Devonshire Marsh 20 Apr. A Franklin’s Gull was at Dockyard, Sandys in Feb. Two Glaucous Gulls were at Dockyard in Feb. A Gull-billed Tern was on Warwick Pond 8 Mar. A Black-whiskered Vireo was at Coral Beach Club 30 Mar-1 Apr (AD). A Red-breasted Nuthatch was in Jenningsland, Smiths 4 Aug. A Sharp-tailed Sparrow, the first record for Bermuda, was found in Cedar Grove fields, Southampton 13 Oct (EA).

September to November 1999

This year has not produced a classic fall of migrants. Some birders describe this fall as the worst ever, citing the lack of warbler numbers, very few empidonax flycatchers or thrushes, and few migrant sparrows. Part of the reason may lie in unfavourable weather systems to bring us these birds, but one worries about the loss of habitat in the wintering areas of warbler species. Nevertheless, there were some notable observations.

Grebes to Ducks:

A probable Eared Grebe was seen at Spittal Pond on 7^th Nov., a species that has only been recorded in Bermuda once before. Cahows were back at their nesting grounds by mid-October just after the last sighting of a Longtail on 8^th Oct. Double-crested Cormorants appear to have arrived in good numbers and have been seen throughout the islands. The long-staying White Ibis remains and a Glossy Ibis was seen flying over Camden Marsh on 7^th Oct. Apart from the usual early arriving Blue-winged Teal, most ducks didn't arrive until early November, including Wood Duck, American Black Duck, Bufflehead and Common Goldeneye. A probable Eurasian Wigeon was on Nonsuch Island on 10^th Nov.

Birds of Prey to Gulls:

Three Northern Harriers on 16^th Oct. created a record day count. At Morgan's Point, Marc and Linda Allaire watched one being mobbed by a Merlin and an American Kestrel, while a Peregrine Falcon soared overhead. Two Sharp-tailed Hawks were seen together in Smiths Parish on 20^th Oct. Highlights amongst the shorebirds included 19 Whimbrel at the Civil Air Terminal on 16^th Oct., a new maxima? (most of these are still present). A Red Knot was located on Riddell's Bay G.C. on 20^th Oct., prior to the arrival of Hurricane 'Gert'. The same location provided a range of shorebirds while the fairways remained flooded. Two Eurasian species attracted much attention - a Curlew Sandpiper (Bermuda’s 6^th record) was discovered by Andrew Dobson on Mid-Ocean GC on 17^th Sept. When it was relocated on Riddell's Bay GC, it was obvious that it was a different bird (Bermuda’s 7^th). This was proved to be true when the two were seen together - the first time two have been present together in Bermuda. The last sighting was at Daniel's Head Farm on 1^st Oct. Another trans-Atlantic vagrant, a Ruff, arrived in early September and was present until at least the 26^{th Sept}. It was the star attraction for the society's September fieldtrip. Paul Watson flushed a rare American Woodcock from fields in Southampton on 28^th Oct. A probable Franklin's Gull was at Dockyard on 11^th Nov., while a Lesser Black-backed Gull on 4^th Sept. was the earliest fall record ever. At least two Royal Terns arrived. One at Astwood Park on 19^th Sept. was no doubt trying to outpace 'Gert', while another unfortunately died in captivity at BAMZ.

Owls to Warblers:

A Short-eared Owl sat close to Steven DeSilva and David Wingate as they scanned for Cahows from the end of Cooper’s Point on 9^th Nov. Chimney Swifts are a regular spring migrant, with few being recorded in the fall. Therefore 14 observed on 23^rd October was easily a maxima for the fall, including one flock of 12 over Jenningsland and off North Shore. A Great-crested Flycatcher was an exceptional visitor to Jenningsland on 19^th Oct, but perhaps no surprise to the Madeiros’ garden! A Western Kingbird stayed near the Martello tower at Ferry Point for at least a week from 31^st Oct. Migrant vireos were hard to find, apart from a scattering of Red-eyed Vireos. Two Warbling Vireos at Port Royal GC on 16^th Oct. equalled the previous highest day count. The movement of swallows fizzled out after September and the number of thrushes, let alone thrush species, could be counted on one hand. Good numbers of Cedar Waxwings were seen throughout October. Two American Pipits were noted on Horn Rock on 6^th Nov. Although there has been a late influx of Palm and Yellow-rumped Warblers in November, the number of all warbler species is generally down. Of 38 warbler species on the Bermuda list, 35 species have been seen this fall. Sightings

of single birds have included Yellow-breasted Chat, seen by most members of the Audubon bird camp on Oct.10^th at Ferry Point. A Swainson’s Warbler was a new species for a number of local birders at Spittal Pond on 6/7^th Nov.

Sparrows to Grosbeaks:

A Clay-coloured Sparrow at Hog Bay Park on 2^nd Oct. was fine reward for those who had been making Longtail igloos during the afternoon. A Lark Sparrow on 25^th Sept at Southside was a very lucky find for Paul Watson, only the 4^th record of this species in Bermuda, but all of them in the 1990’s. One species, which arrived in very good numbers this season, was Indigo Bunting. Over 200 were present in the Talbot Estate fields on 8^th Oct., almost certainly a new day maxima. Two Common Grackles provided a tantalising view for Eric Amos as they flew over St. George’s Harbour in Oct. November gales with cold fronts moving off the eastern seaboard often promise good birds, and this year has not disappointed. Penny Soares noted the first Snow Bunting on 8^th Nov. near Shelly Bay. Further reports came in from various parts of the island with a flock of 37 at the airport on 9^th Nov. There was also an influx of Common Redpolls, 35 being counted at Cooper's Island on 11^th Nov. Perhaps the bird of the fall was a 'russet' Pine Grosbeak found by Jeremy and Leila Madeiros at Fort Scaur on 14^th Nov. Only the fifth record for Bermuda and the first for 22 years, this exquisite bird provided stunning views.

Bird Report 1998

Andrew Dobson

A Greater White-fronted Goose, the third record for Bermuda, was on Bermuda Airport 16 May.

A Tufted Duck on Warwick Pond 4-6 Mar was only the third for Bermuda.

A Surf Scoter was on North Pond, Hamilton Parish 28 Oct.

A Wilson’s Plover was reported from Barry Rd, St. Georges 21 Sept.

A Curlew Sandpiper was on Mid-Ocean G.C., Hamilton Parish 3 Sep (PW).

A flock of 13 Sabine’s Gulls were seen 10 miles N.E. of Bermuda 27 Oct (PW).

A Wood Thrush was in Hog Bay Park, Sandys 25 Oct.

A Varied Thrush the first record for Bermuda, was at Paget Marsh 9 Oct (DBW).

A Townsend’s Warbler was at Fort Scaur, Sandys 4 Oct.

A Lapland Longspur was at Lover’s Lake, St. Georges 24 Oct and Nonsuch Island 2-5 Dec.

Bird Report 1997

Andrew Dobson

An Audubon’s Shearwater was seen at Elbow Beach, Paget 26 Sep.(JM)

A Greater White-fronted Goose, the second record for Bermuda, was in Devonshire Marsh 20 Sep-11 Oct.

A Black Scoter was on Spittal Pond, Smiths 18-20 Nov.

A Glaucous Gull was in St. Georges Harbour Jan-Mar.

Two Gull-billed Terns were off Nonsuch Island 22 Jul.

An Olive-sided Flycatcher was seen at Hog Bay Park 21-22 Sep (WF).

A Northern Rough-winged Swallow was over Pembroke Dump 10 Dec.

A Brown Creeper was in Jenningsland, Smiths 16 Jan-24 Mar (JM).

A Lapland Longspur was at East End Dairy, St. Georges 13 Nov.

Eight White-winged Crossbills were at Pembroke Marsh 9 Dec.

Bird Report 1996

Andrew Dobson

A Common Loon was in Dolly’s Bay, St.David’s 22 Dec.

A Magnificent Frigatebird was over Astwood Park 28 Nov.

Three Bar-tailed Godwits were at the East End, St.George’s 21-24 Dec (EA).

Five White Ibis were seen at Great Head Park, St. David’s 12 Oct with one remaining at Devonshire Marsh to Nov 1999 (JM).

A Rough-legged Hawk was over Ferry Point Park, St. Georges 31 Oct-28 Nov.

An Ash-throated Flycatcher, the second record for Bermuda was at Outerlea Farm, Smiths 31 Jan-1 Feb (BL).

A Wood Sandpiper was at Spittal Pond, Smith’s 11-12 May.

A Red Phalarope was on Spittal Pond, Smiths 3-8 Sep.

An Atlantic Puffin was found dead at Somerset Long Bay 25 Feb.

A Marsh Wren, the first record for Bermuda, was discovered at Pembroke Marsh 24-25 Jan (EA).

A Northern Mockingbird was at Hog Bay Park, Sandys Jan-18 Feb.

A Lark Sparrow, the third record for Bermuda, was found on the Heydon Trust, Sandys 13-14 Oct.

Bird Report 1995

Andrew Dobson

An Eared Grebe, the first record for Bermuda, was found at Spittal Pond, Smiths 10-12 Sep (EA).

A Magnificent Frigatebird was at Watford Bridge, Sandys 19 Nov.

A White Ibis was seen at Great Head Park, St. David’s and later Devonshire Marsh 8 Aug (DBW).

A Eurasian Teal summered on Nonsuch Island/Mid-Ocean G.C.

A Surf Scoter was on Spittal Pond, Smiths 12-16 Feb (PS).

An Pacific Golden-Plover, the first record for Bermuda, was on Bermuda Airport 25 Jan-10 May (SD, DBW).

An American Avocet was on Riddell’s Bay/Mid-Ocean golf courses 29 Oct 1995 to 9 May 1996.

A Hudsonian Godwit was at Mid-Ocean G.C. 17 Sep and two birds were at the Airport later in the month.

A Brown Noddy was in St. Georges Harbour 11 Oct.

A Red-breasted Nuthatch wintered in Jenningsland, Smiths 95/96.

A Brown Thrasher was discovered on Paget Island, St. Georges 7-8Oct (AD).

A Townsend’s Warbler was on Port Royal G.C., Southampton 2 Oct and Ferry Point Park, St. Georges 8 Oct.

A Lark Sparrow, the second record for Bermuda, was found at Tudor Hill, Southampton 18 Oct (JM).

An Orchard Oriole was on St Georges G.C. 11 Aug. (DBW).

A Purple Finch was on Morgan’s Point, Southampton 12 Nov (AD, DBW).

Bird Report 1994

Andrew Dobson

A Tundra Swan was at Spittal Pond, Smith’s 27 Nov-1 Dec (AD).

A Sandhill Crane, the first record for Bermuda, flew over Paget Island, St.Georges 9 Oct (AD). It settled at Outerlea Farm where it remained until 15 May 1994.

A Curlew Sandpiper was at Spittal Pond, Smith’s 9 Jul (PH, LM).

A Red-necked Phalarope was at Marsh Lane, Devonshire 3-27 Nov (JM).

A Sooty Tern was in Castle Harbour 31 May.

A Long-eared Owl was discovered at Coral Beach, Paget 3-11 Nov.(DW)

A Whip-poor-will was found at Fort Scaur 16 Oct.(SD)

A Say’s Phoebe, the first record for Bermuda, was found at Fort Scaur 17 Sept (EA).

A Field Sparrow was at the Biological Station, St. Georges 13 Oct (EA).

A Red Crossbill was at Spittal Pond, Smiths and Nonsuch Island 1-12 Apr (DBW).

Bird Report 1993

Andrew Dobson

A White Ibis was in Pilchard Bay 30 Mar-9 Apr.

Up to 10 Fulvous Whistling-Duck were seen at Cloverdale, Devonshire and other location Nov 1993-June 1994.

Two female Tufted Duck, the first record for Bermuda, were discovered at Somerset Long Bay N.R. 23 Nov 1993 to 31 Jan 1994 (AD,EA).

A Hudsonian Godwit at Dockyard, Sandys 2 Oct then moved to Pembroke Marsh until Nov (AD).

A Little Gull was in the Little Sound, Southampton in March.(SD)

A Lapland Longspur was at Bermuda Airport 23-24 Oct (AD).

Bird Report 1992

Andrew Dobson

A Magnificent Frigatebird was in Hamilton Harbour, Pembroke 18 Oct.

A Pacific Loon, the first record for Bermuda, was found at Grape Bay, Paget 21 Aug but died in captivity at BAMZ.

A Gyrfalcon, the first record for Bermuda, was found on Nonsuch Island 25 Nov-26 Dec (DBW).

A Gull-billed Tern was on Spittal Pond, Smiths 28 May.

A Brown Creeper was on Port Royal G.C. 18 Oct.

Bird Report 1991

Andrew Dobson

A Magnificent Frigatebird was in Hamilton Harbour, Pembroke 25 Oct.

A Brant Goose was on Mid-Ocean G.C., Hamilton Parish 31 Oct 1990 to 24 Apr 1991.

Single Corn Crakes were found in Southampton 24 Sep (road kill) and rescued from a cat in St.David’s 2 Oct.

A Wood Thrush was in the Arboretum, Paget 15 Oct.(AD)

A Townsend’s Warbler was at Astwood Park, Warwick 22-23 Sep.

An Evening Grosbeak was at Port Royal G.C. Southampton 6-9 May.

Bird Report 1990

Andrew Dobson

Two Greater White-fronted Geese, the first record for Bermuda, were at East End Dairy, St Georges 22 Dec 1989 to Feb 1990.(EA)

An American Avocet was on Spittal Pond, Smith’s 20-29 Oct (AD).

A Brant Goose was on Mid-Ocean G.C., Hamilton Parish 31 Oct 1990 to 24 Apr 1991.

An Ash-throated Flycatcher, the first record for Bermuda, was on South Shore dunes, Warwick 26 Dec 1990 to 19 Apr 1991 (SA).

A Glaucous Gull wintered at Morgan’s Point 89/90.

A Red-breasted Nuthatch was on Port Royal G.C. 17 Oct (AD, PW).

A Lark Sparrow, the first record for Bermuda, was found on the Talbot Estate, Southampton 19 Sep (EA).

Long-term Research on Bermuda's Fossil Avifauna Finally Coming to Fruition

David Wingate

From the late 1950s through the '70s, I conducted extensive searches for fossil bird bones in Bermuda's caves, and other sites, with the goal of describing Bermuda's pre-colonial avifauna in greater detail. While most of the bones were found as loose deposits of recent (Holocene) origin on the floors of caves and represented species like the Cahow, Audubon's Shearwater and small owl, which were reported by the first settlers, a few older deposits exposed by blasting in the government quarry in 1960, hinted at a much more diverse avifauna in the early Pleistocene, including a flightless crane, a flightless duck and several species of marsh birds in the rail family.

Of particular interest in the government quarry was a beach rock deposit extending to seventy feet above present day sea-level. A similar aged beach rock on the Castle Harbour Islands contained the bones of adult and nestling short-tailed albatross, confirming that the species once nested in Bermuda, even though albatrosses were not previously known in the North Atlantic later than the Pliocene.

Concurrent geological research on the age of Bermuda's carbonate rocks and their deposition in relation to the sea-level fluctuations of the Ice Age (which is being carried out by Hearty, Vacher, Pascal and other geologists worldwide), has revealed that this high sea stand occurred at the end of the interglacial period known in Bermuda as the 'Upper Town Hill Formation'. The recent get-together of Storrs Olson, from the Smithsonian (who is describing the pre-colonial avifauna in collaboration with me), and geologist Paul T. Hearty, who has been documenting evidence for the same seventy-foot high inter-glacial sea stand in the Bahamas, brings our work to the final stage of correlating the geology with the different ages of the bird bone deposits. Sophisticated dating techniques now confirm that the
high sea stand occurred 400,000 years ago, plus or minus 30,000. It is our conclusion that this drowning of most of Bermuda at that time was the main cause of extinction for the more diverse early Pleistocene avifauna.

37^th Christmas Bird Count 2011