Rio Grande Valley Rare Bird Alert - Feb 11, 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

A CRANE HAWK was photographed at the boat launch at Salineno Birding Center on 1/29, first in flight and then found soon after perched in a tree upriver. It was seen again on 2/2 and then from a boat between Salineno and Santa Margarita on 2/9. A Lucy's Warbler was reported at Salineno near the feeding station on 12/31 and was seen a few more times until at least 1/13. Morelet's Seedeaters have been reported more frequently at Salineno recently, perhaps due to increased birder presence. The most recent report was from 2/4. They are closely associated with the cane grass right along the river trail and on the island. A Song Sparrow was seen at Salineno on 11/30 and continues through at least 2/11. Red-billed Pigeons have been relatively regular the last few weeks. A male and female Rose-throated Becard has been around, seen through 2/11.  An adult male Painted Bunting was seen on the island on 2/1. A Limpkin has been hanging out foraging in the river through 2/11. A male Common Goldeneye was observed flying downstream on 1/31. At least one wild type Muscovy Duck has been seen in and around Salineno either floating on the river or flying up and down. A BARE-THROATED TIGER HERON was seen flying past the bluffs at Salineno on 2/8. 

A Morelet's Seedeater was reported on 2/4 in the cane along the river at Roma Bluffs World Birding Center. Three wild type Muscovy Ducks were reported from here as well on 2/3.

Santa Margarita Ranch (restricted access): Several BROWN JAYS, a BARE-THROATED TIGER HERON and a MOTTLED OWL (as well as some lesser rarities) have been present here. Below is a full list of local and visiting birders and professional guides leading trips to the ranch. Those guiding will provide further information via email on accessibility, fees, group sizes (sometimes up to 20), and other relevant information. Trip fees are set individually by the guides and are currently $140 on weekdays and $160 weekends. 

Daytime Trips: 

Monday - Wednesday: Cameron Cox (kumlieni@gmail.com) & Ryan Rodriguez (Cameron is handling bookings for both)

Thursday - Sunday: Simon Kiacz (simonkiacz@gmail.com) & Zach Johnson (santamargaritaranchtx@gmail.com) 

Nighttime Trips: 

Simon Kiacz (mottledowlsmr@gmail.com) 

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, 12/28 and 1/25 and 1/26, the last two times, near the picnic area. Though there have not been reports in recent weeks, Hook-billed Kites have been sporadically seen this fall and winter, mostly distantly from the hawk watch. 

An adult Audubon's Oriole, as well as a young Audubon's x Altamira hybrid continue at the National Butterfly Center this season. They are often in the vicinity of the feeding station. 

Mountain Plovers are being seen in a field near McCook, with a high count of 59 on 2/10. Check eBird for details. 

At Edinburg Scenic Wetlands, a Tropical Parula continues through at least 2/9. 

A late Groove-billed Ani was at Santa Ana on 2/9, in the Pintail Lakes area. 

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER was found at Frontera Audubon on 11/7, continuing through at least 2/11. A CRIMSON-COLLARED GROSBEAK was found on 12/10, and continues through 2/4. Two individuals were reported from 1/13 to 1/26 . Frontera is closed Sunday mornings and Mondays. 

A Limpkin continues at Estero Llano Grande State Park through at least 2/8. 

Two Rock Wrens have been photographed near Mercedes along the Anacuitas drainage ditch (eBird hotspot) and continued through 2/3. At least two rare-in-winter Groove-billed Anis have been seen as recently as 2/2 in the same location. See eBird for more details.

A possible Cackling Goose has been hanging out with the Snow and Ross's Geese at Delta Lake. A Northern Flicker has been wintering there as well, with the most recent report on 2/2.

Cameron County

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER continues at Hugh Ramsey Park, near Cypress Pond, through at least 2/4.  A Western Tanager has been seen on and off here through 2/4. A rare-in-winter Hooded Warbler has been seen here through 2/4, often in the same area as the Golden-crowned Warbler. A Winter Wren continues here through 2/4.

A Limpkin continues at Kennedy Park in San Benito through 2/3. 

A Tropical Parula was found at Los Fresnos Nature Park on 11/11 and continues though at least 1/6. A Western Tanager was here on 1/17, continuing through at least 1/20. 

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 2/3. (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 through 2/11. The third ABA record, and first Texas record, of of GRAY-COLLARED BECARD has been present since 11/24 and continues through at least 2/11. A Tropical Parula was found on 11/12 and at least two continue through 2/11. At least one hybrid is in the area as well. A Rose-throated Becard was found on 11/10 and continues in the parking lot and near the water feature through 2/10. At least two Western Tanagers were seen here on 11/8 and continue through 2/4. Multiple Dusky-capped Flycatchers have been reported since 11/26 and at least one continues through at least 2/4. There has also been a late Brown-crested Flycatcher in the area. A Western Flycatcher was reported on 11/24 and again on 12/9, continuing through at least 2/4. A Hammond's Flycatcher was here on 1/20, continuing through 2/6. A Cassin's Vireo has been reported here, most recently on 2/11.

Texas's first record of Gray-collared Becard continues at Resaca de la Palma SP. Photo by Evan Farese

A second juvenile ROADSIDE HAWK was found south of Resaca de la Palma SP on 1/13. This bird has not been reported to eBird since then.

A female Painted Bunting was found at the Laguna Vista Nature Trail at Blind 3 on 12/19 and continues through 2/2.  A Tropical Parula was at the same location on 1/13, continuing through 2/3. 

A Brewer's Sparrow continues at Palo Alto Battlefield through 2/2. 

A FAN-TAILED WARBLER was found by Evan Farese at UTRGV Brownsville on 1/5 and continues through 2/11. See eBird for details on where it has been seen. A Townsend's Warbler was photographed here on 1/28. An apparently overwintering adult male Cape May Warbler continued here through 1/29. A rare-in-winter Yellow-breasted Chat was seen here on 2/3.

A Brown Thrasher was found at Lincoln Park in Brownsville on 1/3 and continues through 1/13. 

A Hermit Warbler was found at Buena Vista Cemetery on 12/8 and continues through 2/11.

At least three Iceland Gulls have been seen at the Brownsville Dump in recent weeks. The most recent report is from 2/1.

Willacy County

Two Long-tailed Ducks continue at Laguna Point Recreation Area, through at least 1/29.

A Cassin's Vireo continues at the Raymondville Cemetery through 1/25. A Tropical Parula has also been spending the winter here and was last reported on 1/25.

***EXTRALIMITAL: Cattle Tyrant is continuing in downtown Corpus Christi. Check eBird for current updates. 

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, Nature Ninja Birding Tours 

Additional resources for visiting birders may be found at NatureNinjaBirding.com. 

Rio Grande Valley Rare Bird Alert - Feb 4, 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

A CRANE HAWK was photographed at the boat launch at Salineno Birding Center on 1/29, first in flight and then found soon after perched in a tree upriver. The most recent report of this bird was on 2/2. A Lucy's Warbler was reported at Salineno near the feeding station on 12/31 and was seen a few more times until at least 1/13. Morelet's Seedeaters have been reported more frequently at Salineno recently, perhaps due to increased birder presence. The most recent report was from 2/4. They are closely associated with the cane grass right along the river trail and on the island. A Song Sparrow was seen at Salineno on 11/30 and continues through at least 2/1. Red-billed Pigeons have been relatively regular the last few weeks. A female type Rose-throated Becard was photographed upriver from the boat ramp by the Montezuma Cypress trees and on the island, continuing through 2/4. An adult male Painted Bunting was seen on the island on 2/1. A Limpkin has been hanging out foraging in the river through 2/4. A male Common Goldeneye was observed flying downstream on 1/31. At least one wild type Muscovy Duck has been seen in and around Salineno either floating on the river or flying up and down. 

A Morelet's Seedeater was reported on 2/4 in the cane along the river at Roma Bluffs World Birding Center. Three wild type Muscovy Ducks were reported from here as well on 2/3.

Santa Margarita Ranch (restricted access): A BARE-THROATED TIGER HERON, MOTTLED OWL and several BROWN JAYS continue at here.  Check the blog post for a full list of local and visiting birders and professional guides who can be scheduled. Please note that each guide charges their own fees, and the Santa Margarita Ranch Facebook page is a bit misleading, as it is not run by the ranch but by two birders who have been guiding there, and the trips listed on that page often do not contain a comprehensive list of all tours offered. 

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, 12/28 and 1/25 and 1/26, the last two times, near the picnic area. Though there have not been reports in recent weeks, Hook-billed Kites have been sporadically seen this fall and winter, 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 1/15. 

An adult Audubon's Oriole, as well as a young Audubon's x Altamira hybrid continue at the National Butterfly Center this season. 

Mountain Plovers are being seen in a field near McCook, through at least 2/3. Check eBird for details. 

At Edinburg Scenic Wetlands, a Tropical Parula continues through at least 1/30. 

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER was found at Frontera Audubon on 11/7, continuing through at least 2/3. A CRIMSON-COLLARED GROSBEAK was found on 12/10, and continues through 2/4. Two individuals were reported from 1/13 to 1/26 . Frontera is closed Sunday mornings and Mondays. 

A Limpkin continues at Estero Llano Grande State Park through at least 1/27. 

Two Rock Wrens have been photographed near Mercedes along the Anacuitas drainage ditch and continued through 2/3. At least two rare-in-winter Groove-billed Anis have been seen as recently as 2/2 in the same location. See eBird for more details.

A possible Cackling Goose has been hanging out with the Snow and Ross's Geese at Delta Lake. A Northern Flicker has been wintering there as well, with the most recent report on 2/2.

Cameron County

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER continues at Hugh Ramsey Park, near Cypress Pond, through at least 2/4.  A Western Tanager has been seen on and off here through 2/4. A rare-in-winter Hooded Warbler has been seen here through 2/4, often in the same area as the Golden-crowned Warbler. A Winter Wren continues here through 2/4.

A Limpkin continues at Kennedy Park in San Benito through 2/3. 

A Tropical Parula was found at Los Fresnos Nature Park on 11/11 and continues though at least 1/6. A Western Tanager was here on 1/17, continuing through at least 1/20. 

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 2/3. (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 through 2/2. The third ABA record, and first Texas record, of of GRAY-COLLARED BECARD has been present since 11/24 and continues through at least 2/4. A Tropical Parula was found on 11/12 and at least two continue through 2/4. At least one hybrid is in the area as well. A Rose-throated Becard was found on 11/10 and continues in the parking lot and near the water feature through 2/4. At least two Western Tanagers were seen here on 11/8 and continue through 2/4. Multiple Dusky-capped Flycatchers have been reported since 11/26 and at least one continues through at least 2/4. A Western Flycatcher was reported on 11/24 and again on 12/9, continuing through at least 2/4. A Hammond's Flycatcher was here on 1/20, continuing through 2/4. A Cassin's Vireo has been reported here, most recently on 2/4 with a mixed flock on the tram loop by the resaca.

Texas's first record of Gray-collared Becard continues at Resaca de la Palma SP. Photo by Evan Farese

A second juvenile ROADSIDE HAWK was found south of Resaca de la Palma SP on 1/13. This bird has not been reported to eBird since then.

A female Painted Bunting was found at the Laguna Vista Nature Trail at Blind 3 on 12/19 and continues through 2/2.  A Tropical Parula was at the same location on 1/13, continuing through 2/3. 

A Brewer's Sparrow continues at Palo Alto Battlefield through 2/2. 

A FAN-TAILED WARBLER was found at UTRGV Brownsville on 1/5 and continues through 2/4. See eBird for details on where it has been seen. A Townsend's Warbler was photographed here on 1/28. An apparently overwintering adult male Cape May Warbler continued here through 1/29. A rare-in-winter Yellow-breasted Chat was seen here on 2/3.

A Brown Thrasher was found at Lincoln Park in Brownsville on 1/3 and continues through 1/13. 

A Hermit Warbler was found at Buena Vista Cemetery on 12/8 and continues through 2/2.

At least three Iceland Gulls have been seen at the Brownsville Dump in recent weeks. The most recent report is from 2/1.

Willacy County

Two Long-tailed Ducks continue at Laguna Point Recreation Area, through at least 1/29.

A Cassin's Vireo continues at the Raymondville Cemetery through 1/25. A Tropical Parula has also been spending the winter here and was last reported on 1/25.

***EXTRALIMITAL: Cattle Tyrant reported in downtown Corpus Christi. Check eBird for current updates. 

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 Evan Farese, Nature Ninja Birding Tours 

Additional resources for visiting birders may be found at NatureNinjaBirding.com. 

Rio Grande Valley Rare Bird Alert - Jan 29, 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

A CRANE HAWK was photographed at the boat launch at Salineno Birding Center on 1/29, first in flight and then found soon after perched in a tree upriver. Lucy's Warbler was reported at Salineno near the feeding station on 12/31 and was seen a few more times until at least 12/13. 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 1/18. 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, one continuing through at least 1/13, and a male and female seen further down the trail, in the more arid area, on 1/18.  

Crane Hawk, found and photographed by Gary Herritz 

Santa Margarita Ranch (restricted access): A BARE-THROATED TIGER HERON, MOTTLED OWL and several BROWN JAYS continue at here.  Check the blog post for a full list of local and visiting birders and professional guides who can be scheduled. Please note that each guide charges their own fees, and the Santa Margarita Ranch Facebook page is a bit misleading, as it is not run by the ranch but by two birders who have been guiding there, and the trips listed on that page often do not contain a comprehensive list of all tours offered. 

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, 12/28 and 1/25 and 1/26, the last two times, near the picnic area. 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. 

Mountain Plovers are being seen in a field near McCook, through at least 1/18. Check eBird for details. 

At Edinburg Scenic Wetlands, a Tropical Parula continues through at least 1/28. 

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER was found at Frontera Audubon on 11/7, continuing through at least 1/28. A CRIMSON-COLLARED GROSBEAK was found on 12/10, continuing, and with a second one found on 1/13, continuing through 1/28. Frontera is closed Sunday mornings and Mondays. 

A Limpkin continues at Estero State Park, through 1/22. 

A Red-breasted Merganser and Hooded Merganser were at Weslaco Wetlands (eBird) this week. 

Cameron County

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

A Limpkin continues at Kennedy Park in San Benito through 1/28. 

A Tropical Parula was at Los Fresnos Nature Park on 11/11 and continues though at least 1/3. A Western Tanager was here on 1/17, continuing through at least 1/20. 

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 1/28. (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 1/28. The third ABA record, and first Texas record, of of GRAY-COLLARED BECARD has been present since 11/24 and continues through at least 1/28. A Tropical Parula was found on 11/12 and two continue through 1/28. A hybrid is in the area as well. A Rose-throated Becard was found on 11/10 and continues in the parking lot and near the water feature through 1/28. A Western Tanager was seen here on 11/8 and continues through 1/28.   Dusky-capped Flycatcher was reported on 11/26 and continues through at least 1/13. A Western Flycatcher was reported on 11/24 and again on 12/9, continuing through at least 1/27. A Hammond's Flycatcher was here on 1/20, continuing through 1/26. 

A second juvenile ROADSIDE HAWK was found south of Resaca SP on 1/13. 

A female Painted Bunting was found at the Laguna Vista Nature Trail at Blind 3 on 12/19 and continues through 1/2.  A Tropical Parula was at the same location on 1/13, continuing through 1/26. 

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 continues through 1/29.

A Brown Thrasher was found at Lincoln Park in Brownsville on 1/3 and continues through 1/13. 

A Hermit Warbler was found at Buena Vista Cemetery on 12/8 and continues through 1/28.

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 1/29.

A Cassin's Vireo continues at the Raymondville Cemetery through 1/25.   

***EXTRALIMITAL: Cattle Tyrant reported in downtown Corpus Christi. Check eBird for current updates. 

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, Nature Ninja Birding Tours 

Additional resources for visiting birders may be found at NatureNinjaBirding.com. 

Rio Grande Valley Rare Bird Alert - Jan 22, 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

A Lucy's Warbler was reported at Salineno near the feeding station on 12/31 and was seen a few more times until at least 12/13. 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 1/18. 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, one continuing through at least 1/13, and a male and female seen further down the trail, in the more arid area, on 1/18.  

Santa Margarita Ranch (restricted access): A BARE-THROATED TIGER HERON, MOTTLED OWL and several BROWN JAYS continue at here.  Check the blog post for a comprehensive list of scheduled tours, and birders and professional guides who can be scheduled. Please note that each guide charges their own fees, and the Santa Margarita Ranch Facebook page is run by two birders who have been guiding there, and the Facebook posts do not contain a comprehensive list of all tours offered. 

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. 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. 

Mountain Plovers are being seen in a field near McCook, through at least 1/18. Check eBird for details. 

At Edinburg Scenic Wetlands, a Tropical Parula continues through at least 1/11. 

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER was found at Frontera Audubon on 11/7, continuing through at least 1/21. A CRIMSON-COLLARED GROSBEAK was found on 12/10, continuing, and with a second one found on 1/13, continuing through 1/21. Frontera is closed Sunday mornings and Mondays. 

A Limpkin continues at Estero State Park, through 1/22. 

A Red-breasted Merganser and Hooded Merganser were at Weslaco Wetlands (eBird) this week. 

Cameron County

A GOLDEN-CROWNED WARBLER continues at Hugh Ramsey Park, near Cypress Pond, through at least 1/21.  A Western Tanager was here on 12/29. 

A Limpkin continues at Kennedy Park in San Benito through 1/20. 

A Tropical Parula was at Los Fresnos Nature Park on 11/11 and continues though at least 1/3. A Western Tanager was here on 1/17, continuing through at least 1/20. 

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 1/22, 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 1/19. A Tropical Parula was found on 11/12 and two continue through 1/22. A hybrid is in the area as well. A Rose-throated Becard was found on 11/10 and continues in the parking lot and near the water feature through 1/22. A Western Tanager was seen here on 11/8 and continues through 1/13.   Dusky-capped Flycatcher was reported on 11/26 and continues through at least 1/13. A Western Flycatcher was reported on 11/24 and again on 12/9, continuing through at least 1/13. A Hammond's Flycatcher was here on 1/20. 

A second juvenile ROADSIDE HAWK was found south of Resaca SP on 1/13. 

A female Painted Bunting was found at the Laguna Vista Nature Trail at Blind 3 on 12/19 and continues through 1/2.  A Tropical Parula was at the same location on 1/13, 

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 continues through 1/22.

A Brown Thrasher was found at Lincoln Park in Brownsville on 1/3 and continues through 1/13. 

A Hermit Warbler was found at Buena Vista Cemetery on 12/8 and continues through 1/22.

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 1/21.  

***EXTRALIMITAL: Cattle Tyrant reported at intersection of Chaparral and Schnatzell in downtown Corpus Christi. Check eBird for current updates. 

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 13, 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

A Lucy's Warbler was reported at Salineno near the feeding station on 12/31 and was seen a few more times until at least 12/13. 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 1/13. 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, one continuing through at least 1/13.  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 scheduled tours, and birders and professional guides who can be scheduled.

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, with both continuing through at least 1/13 This is a rare/irregular bird for Hidalgo County. 

Mountain Plovers are being seen in a field near McCook, through at least 1/7. Check eBird for details. 

At Edinburg Scenic Wetlands, a Tropical Parula continues through at least 1/11. 

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 1/13. A CRIMSON-COLLARED GROSBEAK was found on 12/10, continuing, and with a second one found on 1/13.  A Tropical Parula was found on 12/19 and continues through at least 12/27. Frontera is closed Sunday mornings and Mondays. 

Cameron County

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 Limpkin continues at Kennedy Park in San Benito through 1/12. 

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 1/13, 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 1/13. A Tropical Parula was found on 11/12 and continues through at least 1/13. A hybrid is in the area as well. A Rose-throated Becard was found on 11/10 and continues in the parking lot and near the water feature through 1/13. A Western Tanager was seen here on 11/8 and continues through 1/13.   Dusky-capped Flycatcher was reported on 11/26 and continues through at least 1/13. A Western Flycatcher was reported on 11/24 and again on 12/9, continuing through at least 1/13. 

A second juvenile ROADSIDE HAWK was found south of Resaca SP on 1/13. 

A female Painted Bunting was found at the Laguna Vista Nature Trail at Blind 3 on 12/19 and continues through 1/2.  A Tropical Parula was at the same location on 1/13, 

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 continues through 1/13.

A Brown Thrasher was found at Lincoln Park in Brownsville on 1/3 and continues through 1/13. 

A Hermit Warbler was found at Buena Vista Cemetery on 12/8 and continues through 1/13.

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 1/13. 

A Cassin's Vireo was at the Raymondville Cemetery on 1/13.  

***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 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