Rio Grande Valley Rare Bird Alert - May 7

 A note on playback: Playback is strictly prohibited in ALL State Parks, National Wildlife Refuges, and many if not all private nature parks. In addition to being potentially harmful to birds when used extensively, it is also disruptive towards other birders. Thank you for not using playback! 

Migration is slowing down but we've seen a push of high quality migrants like Hudsonian Godwit and Buff-breasted Sandpiper showing up in most sod/turf farm spots. 

The Valley from West to East: 

Starr County

Four BROWN JAYS were found at Santa Margarita Ranch (restricted access), on 3/3, and up to eight are present now now coming to oranges daily. Check the blog post for updates on sightings and access. Red-billed Pigeons have been seen almost daily here. Wild Muscovy Ducks and Hook-billed Kites have also been somewhat regular here. Jays have been seen very irregularly at Salineño along the river trail as well. 

The Salineno feeding station closed on March 19th for the season, but the walking trail near the river remains open year-round. Red-billed Pigeons have been seen at Salineno along the river trail, perched in the treetops of very distant trees on the island. A female Rose-throated Becard was seen on April 24th. Morelet's Seedeaters have been more regular in late April, singing at the end of the river trail. 

Hidalgo County

Three Hook-billed Kites were seen at Bentsen State Park, from the hawk tower, on 4/16. Difficult this winter, a Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet has been reasonably reliable near the Ebony Grove and Kingfisher Overlook areas.  

The National Butterfly Center has been hosting an Audubon's Oriole all across the gardens and trails.  The male Audubon's is once again paired with an Altamira, and is following it around. 

A singing Tropical Parula was found at Anzalduas County Park on 4/26 and continues through at least 4/28. 

A Black-headed Grosbeak was seen at Estero Llano Grande State Park on 5/03. These seem to have had an influx lately so could be worth looking out for anywhere in the valley. 

Cameron County

A Lazuli Bunting was found at the South Padre Island Valley Land Fund lots on 4/28 and continues through at least 4/29. 

Yellow-green Vireos have returned to breed on the south end of Cannon Road in south San Benito. Be careful on the road itself because it can have very bad ruts and mud. 

Check eBird for reports of other migrants throughout the South Padre Island birding sites. 

Willacy County

No rarities have been observed recently in Willacy (mostly due to limited birder presence).

Good Birding! 

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Compiled by Ryan Rodriguez