Sightings Update 9/19/2022

Say’s Phoebe. Photo by Chris Neri

Highlights: Swainson’s Hawk & Say’s Phoebe

As was the case last week, the most notable sightings this week were found by Waterbird Counter Alec Olivier out at the waterbird shack. A Swainson’s Hawk was seen on 9/17 and again on 9/19. Unfortunately, Alec watched it cross Lake Superior after it circled over the beach a couple of times. Alec also spotted the second Say’s Phoebe of the fall on 9/19.

We’ve begun to see the transition from early-season migrants to mid-season migrants. Warbler diversity has been dropping off, and weather conditions have regularly been unfavorable for migration. That said, there are always some birds to be found in the woods. There have regularly been good numbers of Golden-crowned Kinglets and Red-breasted Nuthatches present. There continue to be regular but sporadic sightings of Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Out on the beach, Horned Lark numbers have been increasing as they join the flocks of American Pipits. Although they’re still occurring in low numbers, Lapland Longspurs have also been joining the flock with a bit more regularity. Other recent sightings in the woods include Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Scarlet Tanager, Olive-sided Flycatcher, and Yellow-bellied Sapsucker. 

A Hermit Thrush with a lot of retained juvenile plumage on 9/19. Photo by Chris Neri

~ Chris Neri
2022 Fall Field Ornithologist