Verification of Unusual
Sight Record
For Utah
Rec. # 2013-82
| Common name: |
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker |
| Scientific name: | Sphyrapicus varius |
| Date: | December 21, 2012 through March 06, 2013 |
| Time: | various |
| Length of time observed: | various |
| Number: | 1 |
| Age: | immature |
| Sex: | |
| Location: | Lytle Ranch |
| County: | Washington |
| Latilong: | 19 |
| Elevation: | ~840m |
| Distance to bird: | 5-40 m |
| Optical equipment: | 8x42 binoculars |
| Weather: | various |
| Light Conditions: | various |
| Description: Size of bird: | |
| (Description:) Basic Shape: | |
| (Description:) Overall Pattern: | |
| (Description:) Bill Type: | |
|
(Description:)
Field Marks and Identifying Characteristics: |
I observed an immature Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (retaining juvenile plumage) at
Lytle Ranch on 12/21/12 in a cottonwood across from the orchard. The sapsucker
remained in the area through at least 03/06/13 and gradually molted attaining
adult plumage. However, even in March it retained brownish juvenile feathering
on back, sides, head, and wing coverts. The sapsucker frequented at least three
or four active sapwells on at least two cottonwoods and a walnut tree.
Photographed on January 29 & March 6, 2013. Description: Sapsucker with black and white wings and large white wing patch, retaining a large amount of juvenile plumage when first observed in December and gradually molting towards adult plumage by early March. Head with black and white stripes retaining some brown juvenile feathers on crown and cheeks. Black back with buffy spots down center. Obtained some reddish feathers on throat by March, however, not apparent when first observed in December. (see photos) |
| Song or call & method of delivery: | whining |
| Behavior: | working sapwells on cottonwoods and a walnut tree |
| Habitat: | Desert riparian area and ornamental planting |
| Similar
species and
how were they eliminated: |
|
| Previous
experience with this & similar species: |
yes |
| References consulted: | |
| Description from: | Notes taken at the time of the sighting |
| Observer: | Rick Fridell |
| Observer's address: | |
| Observer's e-mail address: | ** |
| Other observers who independently identified this bird: | Ella Sorensen, many others. |
| Date prepared: | 12-04-2013 |
| Additional material: | Photos |
| Additional_Comments: | Submitted photos taken on 01/29/2013. Description copied from field notes. |