Rio Grande Valley Rare Bird Alert - Jan 6, 2024

Rarities in the Rio Grande Valley, from West to East: 

*Say's Phoebes, Dusky-capped Flycatchers, and Green-tailed Towhees have been in many places in the RGV this year, and will not be listed below. Check eBird for details on locations of these species. 

Starr County

Two Brewer's Sparrows were reported at Falcon County Park on 12/29. 

A Lucy's Warbler was reported at Salineno near the feeding station on 12/31. Morelet's Seedeaters have been hit or miss at Salineno recently. They are closely associated with the cane grass right along the river trail. A Song Sparrow was seen at Salineno on 11/30 and continues through at least 1/2. Red-billed Pigeons have been relatively regular the last few weeks. A female type Rose-throated Becard was here on 12/7 and reported inconsistently through 12/23, with one seen and a second bird heard.  A Limpkin has been sporadic as well, through at least 1/4. 

Santa Margarita Ranch (restricted access): A BARE-THROATED TIGER HERON, MOTTLED OWL and several BROWN JAYS continue at here. Red-billed Pigeons have been somewhat regular here. Limpkin, Rose-throated Becard, Dusky-capped Flycatcher, Rock Wren and Morelet's Seedeater have also been present lately. Brown Jays have been missed on several days over the last few weeks. Check the blog post for a comprehensive list of area birders and professional guides who are currently offering tours to the ranch. 

Hidalgo County

An adult ROADSIDE HAWK was found on 11/9 at Bentsen State Park on Roadrunner Trail and was seen again briefly on 11/29 near Kingfisher Overlook, as well as 12/28 in the same spot. A female Rose-throated Becard was seen near the nature center (not HQ) building on 12/2. Hook-billed Kites have been sporadically seen this fall, mostly distantly from the hawk watch. A female Rose-throated Becard was found near the nature center on 12/2 and was seen sporadically through 12/29. 

An adult Audubon's Oriole, as well as a young Audubon's x Altamira hybrid continue at the National Butterfly Center this season, through at least 1/5. This is a rare/irregular bird for Hidalgo County. A Dusky-capped Flycatcher was seen here on 11/23, continuing through at least 11/25. A Field Sparrow was found on 12/2. 

Mountain Plovers are being seen in a field near McCook, through at least 1/6. Check eBird for details. 

At Edinburg Scenic Wetlands, a Tropical Parula continues through at least 1/2. A Greater Scaup continues through 1/3. 

At Santa Ana, a Groove-billed Ani was at Pintail Lakes on 1/1. A Dusky-capped Flycatcher continues though 1/4. A Tropical Parula was seen on 1/4. 

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER was found at Frontera Audubon on 11/7, continuing through at least 1/5. A CRIMSON-COLLARED GROSBEAK was found on 12/10, continuing through at least 1/6. A Tropical Parula was found on 12/19 and continues through at least 12/27. Frontera is closed Sunday mornings and Mondays. 

At Estero State Park, a Wood Stork was at Alligator Lake on 12/15 through 1/4. At least one Limpkin, possibly two, continues through 1/2. A Hook-billed Kite was seen flying near Kiskadee Pond on 12/28. A hybrid Blue-winged Teal x Shoveler was present on 1/1. 

Cameron County

A Tropical Parula was reported in the Harlingen Library parking lot on 12/21. 

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER continues at Hugh Ramsey Park, near Cypress Pond, through at least 1/6.  A Winter Wren continues there through 12/30. A Western Tanager was here on 12/29. 

A Tropical Parula was at Los Fresnos Nature Park on 11/11 and continues though at least 1/3. 

A Tropical Parula was found on 10/22 at Laguna Atascosa, near the Visitor Center, with two being found on 10/23, and at least one continuing through 12/23. (There's also a Northern x Tropical Parula hybrid in the area.) 

A juvenile ROADSIDE HAWK was found near the resaca along the tram route, at Resaca SP, on 11/7, and it continues (being seen sporadically, and often after investing time) through 1/1, splitting time at the same location and/or near the park entrance road. The third ABA record, and first Texas record, of of GRAY-COLLARED BECARD has been present since 11/24 and continues through at least 1/6. A Tropical Parula was found on 11/12 and continues through at least 1/6. A Rose-throated Becard was found on 11/10 and continues in the parking lot and near the water feature through 1/6. A Western Tanager was seen here on 11/8 and continues through 1/6.   Dusky-capped Flycatcher was reported on 11/26 and continues through at least 1/6. A Western Flycatcher was reported on 11/24 and again on 12/9, continuing through at least 12/31.  A Hammond's Flycatcher was present 12/28 to 12/30. A Red-naped Sapsucker was reported on 12/21. A Warbling Vireo continues through 1/5. 

A female Painted Bunting was found at the Laguna Vista Nature Trail at Blind 3 on 12/19 and continues through 1/2.  

A Downy Woodpecker was found on 12/15 on Atol Street on South Padre Island. It continues through 12/22 now at the Valley Land Fund lots on Sheepshead St. 

A Brewer's Sparrow continues at Palo Alto Battlefield through 1/5. A Field Sparrow was here on 12/19.

A FAN-TAILED WARBLER was found at UTRGV Brownsville on 1/5 and was seen again on 1/6. 

A Brown Thrasher was found at Lincoln Park in Brownsville on 1/3 and continues through 1/6. 

A Hermit Warbler was found at Buena Vista Cemetery on 12/8 and continues through 1/6.

Several late migrant species continue at many locations in Cameron County. Too many to track! Check eBird hotspots for details. 

Willacy County

Two Long-tailed Ducks continue at Laguna Point Recreation Area, through at least 1/6. 

A Cassin's Vireo was at the Raymondville Cemetery on 1/4.  

***EXTRALIMITAL: Cattle Tyrant reported at intersection of Chaparral and Schnatzell in downtown Corpus Christi. Reported 11/12 and continuing through at least 1/1.

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! 

Good Birding! 

---------------------------

Compiled by Tiffany Kersten

tiffanykersten@gmail.com 

Rio Grande Valley Rare Bird Alert - Jan 1, 2024

Rarities in the Rio Grande Valley, from West to East: 

*Say's Phoebes, Dusky-capped Flycatchers, and Green-tailed Towhees have been in many places in the RGV this year, and will not be listed below. Check eBird for details on locations of these species. 

Starr County

Two Brewer's Sparrows were reported at Falcon County Park on 12/29. 

A Lucy's Warbler was reported at Salineno near the feeding station on 12/31. Better documentation desired. Morelet's Seedeaters have been hit or miss at Salineno recently. They are closely associated with the cane grass right along the river trail. A Song Sparrow was seen at Salineno on 11/30 and continues through at least 12/31. Red-billed Pigeons have been regular the last few weeks. A female type Rose-throated Becard was here on 12/7 and reported inconsistently through 12/23, with one seen and a second bird heard.  

A juvenile Bald Eagle was seen from 11/28 to at least 11/30, cruising the river, with sightings from Falcon State Park, Salineno, and Santa Margarita Ranch. 

Santa Margarita Ranch (restricted access): A BARE-THROATED TIGER HERON, MOTTLED OWL and several BROWN JAYS continue at here. Red-billed Pigeons have been somewhat regular here. Limpkin, Rose-throated Becard, Dusky-capped Flycatcher, Rock Wren and Morelet's Seedeater have also been present lately. Brown Jays have been missed on several days over the last few weeks. The Mottled Owl was MIA during playback night 12/20. Check the blog post for a comprehensive list of area birders and professional guides who are currently offering tours to the ranch. 

Hidalgo County

An adult ROADSIDE HAWK was found on 11/9 at Bentsen State Park on Roadrunner Trail and was seen again briefly on 11/29 near Kingfisher Overlook, as well as 12/28 in the same spot. A female Rose-throated Becard was seen near the nature center (not HQ) building on 12/2. Hook-billed Kites have been sporadically seen this fall, mostly distantly from the hawk watch. A female Rose-throated Becard was found near the nature center on 12/2 and was seen sporadically through 12/29. 

An adult Audubon's Oriole, as well as a young Audubon's x Altamira hybrid continue at the National Butterfly Center this season, through at least 1/1. This is a rare/irregular bird for Hidalgo County. A Dusky-capped Flycatcher was seen here on 11/23, continuing through at least 11/25. A Field Sparrow was found on 12/2. 

Mountain Plovers are being seen in a field near McCook, through at least 12/30. Check eBird for details. 

At Edinburg Scenic Wetlands, a Tropical Parula continues through at least 12/31. 

A Prairie Falcon was found north of Edinburg on 12/29. eBird for details. 

At Santa Ana, a Groove-billed Ani was at Pintail Lakes on 1/1. 

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER was found at Frontera Audubon on 11/7, continuing through at least 12/30. A CRIMSON-COLLARED GROSBEAK was found on 12/10, continuing through at least 12/30. A Tropical Parula was found on 12/19 and continues through at least 12/27. Frontera is closed Sunday mornings and Mondays. 

At Estero State Park, a Wood Stork was at Alligator Lake on 12/15 through 12/31. At least one Limpkin, possibly two, continues through 1/1. A Hook-billed Kite was seen flying near Kiskadee Pond on 12/28. 

Cameron County

A Tropical Parula was reported in the Harlingen Library parking lot on 12/21. 

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER continues at Hugh Ramsey Park, near Cypress Pond, through at least 12/31.  A Winter Wren continues there through 12/30. A Western Tanager was here on 12/29. 

A Tropical Parula was at Los Fresnos Nature Park on 11/11 and continues though at least 12/11. 

A Tropical Parula was found on 10/22 at Laguna Atascosa, near the Visitor Center, with two being found on 10/23, and at least one continuing through 12/23. (There's also a Northern x Tropical Parula hybrid in the area.) 

A juvenile ROADSIDE HAWK was found near the resaca along the tram route, at Resaca SP, on 11/7, and it continues (being seen sporadically, and often after investing time) through 1/1, splitting time at the same location and/or near the park entrance road. The third ABA record, and first Texas record, of of GRAY-COLLARED BECARD has been present since 11/24 and continues through at least 1/1. A Tropical Parula was found on 11/12 and continues through at least 1/1. A Rose-throated Becard was found on 11/10 and continues in the parking lot and near the water feature through 1/1. A Western Tanager was seen here on 11/8 and continues through 12/30.   Dusky-capped Flycatcher was reported on 11/26 and continues through at least 1/1. A Western Flycatcher was reported on 11/24 and again on 12/9, continuing through at least 12/31.  A Hammond's Flycatcher was present 12/28 to 12/30. A Red-naped Sapsucker was reported on 12/21. Three late Groove-billed Anis were on the far side of the park, found on the tram tour, on 12/23. At least one continues through 12/26. 

A female Painted Bunting was found at the Laguna Vista Nature Trail at Blind 3 on 12/19. 

A Downy Woodpecker was found on 12/15 on Atol Street on South Padre Island. It continues through 12/22 now at the Valley Land Fund lots on Sheepshead St. 

Roadside Hawk at Resaca de la Palma, photo by Ryan Rodriguez

A Brewer's Sparrow continues at Palo Alto Battlefield through 12/29. A Field Sparrow was here on 12/19.

A Hermit Warbler was found at Buena Vista Cemetery on 12/8 and continues through 1/1. 

Several late migrant species continue at many locations in Cameron County. Too many to track! Check eBird hotspots for details. 

Willacy County

Two Long-tailed Ducks continue at Laguna Point Recreation Area, through at least 1/1. 

***EXTRALIMITAL: Cattle Tyrant reported at intersection of Chaparral and Schnatzell in downtown Corpus Christi. Reported 11/12 and continuing through at least 1/1.

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! 

Good Birding! 

---------------------------

Compiled by Tiffany Kersten

tiffanykersten@gmail.com 

Rio Grande Valley Rare Bird Alert - Dec 23, 2023

Rarities in the Rio Grande Valley, from West to East: 

Starr County

Morelet's Seedeaters have been hit or miss at Salineno recently. They are closely associated with the cane grass right along the river trail. A Song Sparrow was seen at Salineno on 11/30 and continues through at least 12/21. Red-billed Pigeons have been regular the last few weeks. A female type Rose-throated Becard was here on 12/7 and reported inconsistently through 12/23, with one seen and a second bird heard.  A Dusky-capped Flycatcher was reported on 12/15. 

A juvenile Bald Eagle was seen from 11/28 to at least 11/30, cruising the river, with sightings from Falcon State Park, Salineno, and Santa Margarita Ranch. 

Santa Margarita Ranch (restricted access): A BARE-THROATED TIGER HERON, MOTTLED OWL and several BROWN JAYS continue at here. Red-billed Pigeons have been somewhat regular here. Limpkin, Rose-throated Becard, Dusky-capped Flycatcher, Rock Wren and Morelet's Seedeater have also been present lately. Brown Jays have been missed on several days over the last two weeks. The Mottled Owl was MIA during playback night 12/20. Check the blog post for a comprehensive list of area birders and professional guides who are currently offering tours to the ranch. 

Hidalgo County

An adult ROADSIDE HAWK was found on 11/9 at Bentsen State Park on Roadrunner Trail and was seen again briefly on 11/29 near Kingfisher Overlook. A female Rose-throated Becard was seen near the nature center (not HQ) building on 12/2. Hook-billed Kites have been sporadically seen this fall, mostly distantly from the hawk watch. A female Rose-throated Becard was found near the nature center on 12/2. A Dusky-capped Flycatcher was heard in the woods across from Kingfisher Overlook on 12/8. A late staying Broad-winged Hawk continues through 12/16. 

An adult Audubon's Oriole, as well as a young Audubon's x Altamira hybrid continue at the National Butterfly Center this season, through at least 12/23. This is a rare/irregular bird for Hidalgo County. A Dusky-capped Flycatcher was seen here on 11/23, continuing through at least 11/25. A Field Sparrow was found on 12/2. 

Mountain Plovers are being seen in a field near McCook, through 12/23. Check eBird for details. 

At Edinburg Scenic Wetlands, a Tropical Parula continues through at least 12/15. 

At Santa Ana, a Dusky-capped Flycatcher was found on Willow Lakes Trail on 11/28 and continues through 12/22. 

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER was found at Frontera Audubon on 11/7, continuing through at least 12/23. A CRIMSON-COLLARED GROSBEAK was found on 12/10, continuing through at least 12/23. A Tropical Parula was found on 12/19 and continues through at least 12/22. Frontera is closed Sunday mornings and Mondays. 

At Estero State Park, a Wood Stork was at Alligator Lake on 12/15 through 12/23. A Mallard was present on 12/13 through 12/15. A Wood Duck was present on 12/23. 

Cameron County

A Tropical Parula was reported in the Harlingen Library parking lot on 12/21. 

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER continues at Hugh Ramsey Park, near Cypress Pond, through at least 12/23.  A Winter Wren continues there through 12/16. 

A Tropical Parula was at Los Fresnos Nature Park on 11/11 and continues though at least 12/11. 

A Tropical Parula was found on 10/22 at Laguna Atascosa, near the Visitor Center, with two being found on 10/23, and at least one continuing through 12/23. (There's also a Northern x Tropical Parula hybrid in the area.) 

A juvenile ROADSIDE HAWK was found near the resaca along the tram route, at Resaca SP, on 11/7, and it continues (being seen sporadically, and often after investing time) through 12/23, splitting time at the same location and/or near the park entrance road. The third ABA record, and first Texas record, of of GRAY-COLLARED BECARD was identified on 11/25 had been present since 11/24 and continues through at least 12/23. A Tropical Parula was found on 11/12 and continues through at least 12/21. A Rose-throated Becard was found on 11/10 and continues in the parking lot and near the water feature through 12/11. A Western Tanager was seen here on 11/8 and continues through 12/23.   Dusky-capped Flycatcher was reported on 11/26 and continues through at least 12/23. A Western Flycatcher was reported on 11/24 and again on 12/9, continuing through at least 12/23. A late Brown-crested Flycatcher continues through 12/22. A female type Painted Bunting was found on 12/17. A Red-naped Sapsucker was reported on 12/21. Three late Groove-billed Anis were on the far side of the park, found on the tram tour, on 12/23. 

A female Painted Bunting was found at the Laguna Vista Nature Trail at Blind 3 on 12/19. 

A Downy Woodpecker was found on 12/15 on Atol Street on South Padre Island. It continues through 12/22 now at the Valley Land Fund lots on Sheepshead St. 

Roadside Hawk at Resaca de la Palma, photo by Ryan Rodriguez

A Brewer's Sparrow continues at Palo Alto Battlefield through 12/22. A Field Sparrow was here on 12/19.

A Hermit Warbler was found at Buena Vista Cemetery on 12/8 and continues through 12/23. 

Several late migrant songbirds continue at many locations in Cameron County. Too many to track! Check eBird hotspots for details. 

Willacy County

Two Long-tailed Ducks were reported at Laguna Point Recreation Area on 12/23. 

A Cassin's Vireo was reported at the Raymondville Cemetery on 12/23. 

***EXTRALIMITAL: Cattle Tyrant reported at intersection of Chaparral and Schnatzell in downtown Corpus Christi. Reported 11/12 and continuing through at least 12/23.

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! 

Good Birding! 

---------------------------

Compiled by Tiffany Kersten

tiffanykersten@gmail.com 

Rio Grande Valley Rare Bird Alert - Dec 17, 2023

Rarities in the Rio Grande Valley, from West to East: 

Starr County

A Western Grebe was reported at Falcon Lake (technically on the Zapata County side, as the lake spans two counties) on 11/26. A white morph Reddish Egret continues through 12/9. 

Morelet's Seedeaters have been hit or miss at Salineno recently. They are closely associated with the cane grass right along the river trail. A Song Sparrow was seen at Salineno on 11/30 and continues through 12/17. Red-billed Pigeons have been regular the last few weeks. A female type Rose-throated Becard was here on 12/7 and 12/14. A Dusky-capped Flycatcher was reported on 12/15. 

A juvenile Bald Eagle was seen from 11/28 to at least 11/30, cruising the river, with sightings from Falcon State Park, Salineno, and Santa Margarita Ranch. 

Santa Margarita Ranch (restricted access): A BARE-THROATED TIGER HERON, MOTTLED OWL and several BROWN JAYS continue at here. Red-billed Pigeons have been somewhat regular here. Limpkin, Rose-throated Becard, Dusky-capped Flycatcher, Rock Wren and Morelet's Seedeater have also been present lately. Brown Jays have been missed on several days over the last two weeks; last reported December 12th. Check the blog post for a comprehensive list of area birders and professional guides who are currently offering tours to the ranch. 

Hidalgo County

An adult ROADSIDE HAWK was found on 11/9 at Bentsen State Park on Roadrunner Trail and was seen again briefly on 11/29 near Kingfisher Overlook. A female Rose-throated Becard was seen near the nature center (not HQ) building on 12/2. Hook-billed Kites have been sporadically seen this fall, mostly distantly from the hawk watch. A female Rose-throated Becard was found near the nature center on 12/2. A Dusky-capped Flycatcher was heard in the woods across from Kingfisher Overlook on 12/8. A late staying Broad-winged Hawk continues through 12/16. 

An adult Audubon's Oriole, as well as a young Audubon's / Altamira hybrid continue at the National Butterfly Center this season, through at least 12/10. This is a rare/irregular bird for Hidalgo County. A Dusky-capped Flycatcher was seen here on 11/23, continuing through at least 11/25. A Field Sparrow was found on 12/2. The National Butterfly Center has had a bobcat regularly visiting their feeders and has halted bird feeding until at least 12/15. Check with them directly for updates. 

A Winter Wren was found at Edinburg Scenic Wetlands on 11/24, at the eastern edge of the park, continuing through at least 12/8. A Tropical Parula continues through at least 12/15. 

At Santa Ana, a Dusky-capped Flycatcher was found on Willow Lakes Trail on 11/28 and continues through 12/15. 

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER was found at Frontera Audubon on 11/7, continuing through at least 12/17. A CRIMSON-COLLARED GROSBEAK was found on 12/10, continuing through at least 12/17. Frontera is closed Sunday mornings and Mondays. 

At Estero State Park, one, then two, and up to THREE Limpkin, with at least one continuing through at least 12/5, most recently at Kiskadee Pond.  A Wood Stork was at Alligator Lake on 12/15 and 12/16. A Mallard was present on 12/13 through 12/15.

Cameron County

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER continues at Hugh Ramsey Park, near Cypress Pond, through at least 12/13.  A Winter Wren continues there through 12/16. 

A Tropical Parula was at Los Fresnos Nature Park on 11/11 and continues though at least 12/11. 

A Tropical Parula was found on 10/22 at Laguna Atascosa, near the Visitor Center, with two being found on 10/23, and at least one continuing through 11/26. (There's also a Northern x Tropical Parula hybrid in the area.) 

A juvenile ROADSIDE HAWK was found near the resaca along the tram route, at Resaca SP, on 11/7, and it continues (being seen sporadically, and often after investing time) through 12/17, splitting time at the same location and/or near the park entrance road. The third ABA record, and first Texas record, of of GRAY-COLLARED BECARD was identified on 11/25 had been present since 11/24 and continues through at least 12/17. A Tropical Parula was found on 11/12 and continues through at least 12/17. A Rose-throated Becard was found on 11/10 and continues in the parking lot and near the water feature through 12/11. A Western Tanager was seen here on 11/8 and continues through 12/15.  A Western Flycatcher was reported on 11/24 and again on 12/9, and two were reported on 12/17. Dusky-capped Flycatcher was reported on 11/26 and continues through at least 12/10. A Golden-crowned Warbler was found on 11/26. A late Groove-billed Ani continues on the Bobcat Trail through at least 12/8. A Green-tailed Towhee was found on 12/8. A female type Painted Bunting was found on 12/17. 

A Downy Woodpecker was found on 12/15 on Atol Street on South Padre Island. It continues through 12/17 on W Retama St. 

Roadside Hawk at Resaca de la Palma, photo by Ryan Rodriguez

A Brewer's Sparrow continues at Palo Alto Battlefield through 12/7. 

A Hermit Warbler was found at Buena Vista Cemetery on 12/8 and continues through 12/17. 

A Surf Scoter was at Isla Blanca Park on 12/4 and 12/5. 

A Long-tailed Duck was reported from South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center on 12/9. 

Several late migrant songbirds continue at many locations in Cameron County. Too many to track! Check eBird hotspots for details. 

Willacy County

No rarities have been reported in Willacy County at this time, mostly due to lack of birder presence. 

***EXTRALIMITAL: Cattle Tyrant reported at intersection of Chaparral and Schnatzell in downtown Corpus Christi. Reported 11/12 and continuing through at least 12/16.

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! 

Good Birding! 

---------------------------

Compiled by Tiffany Kersten

tiffanykersten@gmail.com 

Rio Grande Valley Rare Bird Alert - Dec 10, 2023

 Rarities in the Rio Grande Valley, from West to East: 

Starr County

A Western Grebe was reported at Falcon Lake (technically on the Zapata County side, as the lake spans two counties) on 11/26. A white morph Reddish Egret continues through 12/9. 

Morelet's Seedeaters have been hit or miss at Salineno recently. They are closely associated with the cane grass right along the river trail. A Song Sparrow was seen at Salineno on 11/30 and continues through 12/9. Red-billed Pigeons have been plentiful this week. A female Rose-throated Becard was here on 12/7.

A juvenile Bald Eagle was seen from 11/28 to at least 11/30, cruising the river, with sightings from Falcon State Park, Salineno, and Santa Margarita Ranch. 

Santa Margarita Ranch (restricted access): A BARE-THROATED TIGER HERON, MOTTLED OWL and several BROWN JAYS continue at here. Red-billed Pigeons have been somewhat regular here. Limpkin, Rose-throated Becard, Dusky-capped Flycatcher, Rock Wren and Morelet's Seedeater have also been present lately. Check the blog post for a comprehensive list of area birders and professional guides who are currently offering tours to the ranch. Brown Jays were missed on 12/8 and 12/9 trips. 

Hidalgo County

An adult ROADSIDE HAWK was found on 11/9 at Bentsen State Park on Roadrunner Trail and was seen again briefly on 11/29 near Kingfisher Overlook. A female Rose-throated Becard was seen near the nature center (not HQ) building on 12/2. Hook-billed Kites have been sporadically seen this fall, mostly distantly from the hawk watch. A Black-headed Grosbeak was found near the nature center on 11/29 and continues through at least 12/2. A female Rose-throated Becard was found near the nature center on 12/2. A Dusky-capped Flycatcher was heard in the woods across from Kingfisher Overlook on 12/8. 

An adult Audubon's Oriole, as well as a young Audubon's / Altamira hybrid continue at the National Butterfly Center this season, through at least 12/10. This is a rare/irregular bird for Hidalgo County. A Dusky-capped Flycatcher was seen here on 11/23, continuing through at least 11/25. A Field Sparrow was found on 12/2. The National Butterfly Center has had a bobcat regularly visiting their feeders and has halted bird feeding until at least 12/15. Check with them directly for updates. 

A Winter Wren was found at Edinburg Scenic Wetlands on 11/24, at the eastern edge of the park, continuing through at least 12/8. A Tropical Parula continues through at least 12/8. 

At Santa Ana, a Dusky-capped Flycatcher was found on 11/28 and continues through 12/2. 

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER was found at Frontera Audubon on 11/7, continuing through at least 12/9. A CRIMSON-COLLARED GROSBEAK was found on 12/10, continuing through at least 12/3. Frontera is closed Sunday mornings and Mondays. 

At Estero State Park, one, then two, and up to THREE Limpkin, with at least one continuing through at least 12/5, most recently at Kiskadee Pond.  

Cameron County

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER continues at Hugh Ramsey Park, near Cypress Pond, through at least 12/9.  

A Tropical Parula was at Los Fresnos Nature Park on 11/11 and continues though 12/8. 

A Tropical Parula was found on 10/22 at Laguna Atascosa, near the Visitor Center, with two being found on 10/23, and at least one continuing through 11/26. (There's also a Northern x Tropical Parula hybrid in the area.) 

A juvenile ROADSIDE HAWK was found near the resaca along the tram route, at Resaca SP, on 11/7, and it continues (being seen sporadically, and often after investing time) through 12/10, splitting time at the same location and/or near the park entrance road. The third ABA record, and first Texas record, of of GRAY-COLLARED BECARD was identified on 11/25 had been present since 11/24 and continues through at least 12/9. A Tropical Parula was found on 11/12 and continues through at least 12/9. A Rose-throated Becard was found on 11/10 and continues in the parking lot and near the water feature through 12/10. A Western Tanager was seen here on 11/8 and continues through 12/9. Male and female BLUE BUNTINGS have been seen sporadically over the month of November, in the gardens near the visitor center and near the boardwalk. No recent reports. A Western Flycatcher was reported on 11/24 and again on 12/9. Dusky-capped Flycatcher was reported on 11/26 and continues through at least 12/10. A Golden-crowned Warbler was found on 11/26. A late Groove-billed Ani continues on the Bobcat Trail through at least 12/8. A Green-tailed Towhee was found on 12/8. 

Roadside Hawk at Resaca de la Palma, photo by Ryan Rodriguez

A Brewer's Sparrow continues at Palo Alto Battlefield through 12/7. 

A Hermit Warbler was found at Buena Vista Cemetery on 12/8 and continues through 12/10. 

A Surf Scoter was at Isla Blanca Park on 12/4 and 12/5. 

A Long-tailed Duck was reported from South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center on 12/9. 

Several late migrant songbirds continue at many locations in Cameron County. Too many to track! Check eBird hotspots for details. 

Willacy County

No rarities have been reported in Willacy County at this time, mostly due to lack of birder presence. 

***EXTRALIMITAL: Cattle Tyrant reported at intersection of Chaparral and Schnatzell in downtown Corpus Christi. Reported 11/12 and continuing through at least 12/10.

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! 

Good Birding! 

---------------------------

Compiled by Tiffany Kersten

tiffanykersten@gmail.com 

Rio Grande Valley Rare Bird Alert - Dec 3, 2023

Rarities in the Rio Grande Valley, from West to East: 

Starr County

A Western Grebe was reported at Falcon Lake (technically on the Zapata County side, as the lake spans two counties) on 11/26. 

Morelet's Seedeaters have been hit or miss at Salineno recently. They are closely associated with the cane grass right along the river trail. A Song Sparrow was seen at Salineno on 11/30 and 12/1. 

A juvenile Bald Eagle was seen from 11/28 to at least 11/30, cruising the river, with sightings from Falcon State Park, Salineno, and Santa Margarita Ranch. 

Santa Margarita Ranch (restricted access): A BARE-THROATED TIGER HERON was seen 11/12 and seen and heard multiple times since, on both day and night tours. A MOTTLED OWL was heard on 11/18 and has been seen while using playback and heard on non-playback nights.  Several BROWN JAYS continue at Santa Margarita as well, having originally been found in March 2023, and five have been returning to oranges during weekly visits by birders. Red-billed Pigeons have been somewhat regular here as of recently. Limpkin, Rose-throated Becard, Dusky-capped Flycatcher, Rock Wren and Morelet's Seedeater have also been present lately. Check the blog post for info on difficult terrain and site access. 

Hidalgo County

An adult ROADSIDE HAWK was found on 11/9 at Bentsen State Park on Roadrunner Trail and was seen again briefly on 11/29 near Kingfisher Overlook. A female Rose-throated Becard was seen near the nature center (not HQ) building on 12/2. Hook-billed Kites have been sporadically seen this fall, mostly distantly from the hawk watch. A Black-headed Grosbeak was found near the nature center on 11/29 and continues through at least 12/2. A female Rose-throated Becard was found near the nature center on 12/2. 

An adult Audubon's Oriole, as well as a young Audubon's / Altamira hybrid continue at the National Butterfly Center this season, through at least 12/3. This is a rare/irregular bird for Hidalgo County. A Dusky-capped Flycatcher was seen here on 11/23, continuing through at least 11/25. A Field Sparrow was found on 12/2. A Bullock's Oriole was seen on 11/30. 

A Winter Wren was found at Edinburg Scenic Wetlands on 11/24, at the eastern edge of the park, continuing through at least 11/27. A Green-tailed Towhee was here on 11/22 and continued through at least 11/28. A Tropical Parula continues through at least 11/28. Ten Wood Ducks were found on 11/27. 

A Wood Duck was found at Santa Ana on 11/29 and a Long-tailed Duck on 12/2 and continues to 12/3. A Dusky-capped Flycatcher was found on 11/28 and continues through 12/2. 

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER was found at Frontera Audubon on 11/7, continuing through at least 12/2. A CRIMSON-COLLARED GROSBEAK was found on 12/2, continuing through at least 12/3. Frontera is closed Sunday mornings and Mondays. 

One, then two, and up to THREE Limpkin, with at least one continuing through at least 12/3, most recently at Kiskadee Pond.  A Tropical Parula was in the parking lot 11/4 to at least 11/5. 

Cameron County

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER continues at Hugh Ramsey Park, near Cypress Pond, through at least 12/2.  A Winter Wren was here on 11/7 continuing through at least . A late Summer Tanager continues through 11/8. A Zone-tailed Hawk (east for their typical range) was seen overhead a few times in November. 

A Tropical Parula and Black-throated Gray Warbler were found at Los Fresnos Nature Park on 11/11 and continue though 11/26. 

A Tropical Parula was found on 10/22 at Laguna Atascosa, near the Visitor Center, with two being found on 10/23, and at least one continuing through 11/26. (There's also a Northern x Tropical Parula hybrid in the area.) Two late Groove-billed Anis continue here. 

A juvenile ROADSIDE HAWK was found near the resaca along the tram route, at Resaca SP, on 11/7, and it continues (being seen sporadically, and often after investing time) through 12/3, splitting time at the same location and/or near the park entrance road. The third ABA record, and first Texas record, of of GRAY-COLLARED BECARD was identified on 11/25 had been present since 11/24 and continues through 12/3. A Tropical Parula was found on 11/12 and continues through at least 12/3. A Rose-throated Becard was found on 11/10 and continues in the parking lot and near the water feature through 12/3. A Western Tanager was seen here on 11/8 and continues through 12/3. Male and female BLUE BUNTINGS have been seen sporadically over the month of November, in the gardens near the visitor center and near the boardwalk. A Western Flycatcher was reported on 11/24 and a Dusky-capped Flycatcher was reported on 11/26. A Golden-crowned Warbler was found on 11/26. A late Groove-billed Ani continues here as well. 

Roadside Hawk at Resaca de la Palma, photo by Ryan Rodriguez

A Brewer's Sparrow continues at Palo Alto Battlefield through 12/3. 

A Dark-eyed Junco was found at South Padre Island Convention Center on 12/1 and continues through 12/3. 

Several late migrant songbirds continue at many locations in Cameron County. Too many to track! Check eBird hotspots for details. 

Willacy County

No rarities have been reported in Willacy County at this time, mostly due to lack of birder presence. 

***EXTRALIMITAL: Cattle Tyrant reported at intersection of Chaparral and Schnatzell in downtown Corpus Christi. Reported 11/12 and continuing through at least 11/26.

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! 

Good Birding! 

---------------------------

Compiled by Tiffany Kersten

tiffanykersten@gmail.com 

Rio Grande Valley Rare Bird Alert - Nov 26, 2023

Rarities in the Rio Grande Valley, from West to East: 

Starr County

A Western Grebe was reported at Falcon Lake (technically on the Zapata County side, as the lake spans two counties) on 11/26. 

Morelet's Seedeaters have been hit or miss at Salineno recently. They are closely associated with the cane grass right along the river trail. 

Santa Margarita Ranch (restricted access): A BARE-THROATED TIGER HERON was seen 11/12 and heard at night on 11/25. A MOTTLED OWL was heard on 11/18 and has been seen a few times until at least 11/25. Salineno Birding Center is two miles upriver from this site and may be a good spot to keep an eye on the river. Several BROWN JAYS continue at Santa Margarita as well, having originally been found in March 2023, and five have been returning to oranges during weekly visits by birders. Red-billed Pigeons have been somewhat regular here as of recently. Rose-throated Becard, Dusky-capped Flycatcher, Rock Wren and Morelet's Seedeater have also been present lately. Check the blog post for info on difficult terrain and site access. 

Hidalgo County

An adult ROADSIDE HAWK was found on 11/9 at Bentsen State Park on Roadrunner Trail and has not been relocated since. Hook-billed Kites have been sporadically seen this fall, mostly distantly from the hawk watch.

An adult Audubon's Oriole, as well as a young Audubon's / Altamira hybrid continue at the National Butterfly Center this season, through at least 11/19. This is a rare/irregular bird for Hidalgo County. A Dusky-capped Flycatcher was seen here on 11/23, continuing through at least 11/25.

At Roselawn Cemetery in McAllen, a Palm Warbler was found on 11/18 and a Blackpoll Warbler on 11/19. 

A Winter Wren was found at Edinburg Scenic Wetlands on 11/24, at the eastern edge of the park. A Green-tailed Towhee was here on 11/22 and continued through at least 11/25. A Tropical Parula continues through at least 11/24. 

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER was found at Frontera Audubon on 11/7, continuing through at least 11/8. 

A female BLUE BUNTING was found at Estero Llano Grande State Park, near the entrance path and the Green Jay Trail, on 10/27 and continued through at least 11/4. One, then two, and now THREE Limpkin, with at least one continuing through at least 11/26.  A Townsend's Warbler was found at the entrance to the tropical zone on 11/11 through at least 11/13, as well as a Golden-crowned Kinglet. A Tropical Parula was in the parking lot 11/4 to at least 11/5. 

Cameron County

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER continues at Hugh Ramsey Park, near Cypress Pond, through at least 11/25.  A Winter Wren was here on 11/7 continuing through at least . A late Summer Tanager continues through 11/8. A Zone-tailed Hawk (east for their typical range) was seen overhead a few times in November. 

A Limpkin was found here near San Benito on 11/18. https://ebird.org/tx/hotspot/L4395672

A Tropical Parula and Black-throated Gray Warbler were found at Los Fresnos Nature Park on 11/11 and continue though 11/26. 

A Tropical Parula was found on 10/22 at Laguna Atascosa, near the Visitor Center, with two being found on 10/23, and at least one continuing through 11/26. (There's also a Northern x Tropical Parula hybrid in the area.) 

A juvenile ROADSIDE HAWK was found near the resaca along the tram route, at Resaca SP, on 11/7, and it continues (being seen sporadically, and often after investing time) through 11/26, splitting time at the same location and/or near the park entrance road. The third ABA record, and first Texas record, of of GRAY-COLLARED BECARD was identified on 11/25, with reports of the bird also having been seen on the morning of 11/24. It continued through sunset on 11/25 and was seen again the morning of 11/26, near the visitor center and water feature. A Tropical Parula was found on 11/12 and continues through at least 11/26. A Rose-throated Becard was found on 11/10 and continues in the parking lot and near the water feature through 11/26. A Western Tanager was seen here on 11/8 and continues through 11/26 as well. Male and female BLUE BUNTINGS have been seen sporadically over the month of November, in the gardens near the visitor center and near the boardwalk. A Western Flycatcher was reported on 11/24 and a Dusky-capped Flycatcher was reported on 11/26. A Golden-crowned Warbler was found on 11/26. 

Several late migrant songbirds continue at many locations in Cameron County. Too many to track! Check eBird hotspots for details. 

Willacy County

No rarities have been reported in Willacy County at this time, mostly due to lack of birder presence. 

***EXTRALIMITAL: Cattle Tyrant reported at intersection of Chaparral and Schnatzell in downtown Corpus Christi. Reported 11/12 and continuing through at least 11/26.

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! 

Good Birding! 

---------------------------

Compiled by Tiffany Kersten

tiffanykersten@gmail.com