Records Committee
Utah Ornithological Society
   
Status & Comments
Year 2017 (records 26 through 50)

2017-26  Whip-poor-will

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 17 Jun 2017 No, ID This is a Common Poorwill.
Kenny F. 19 May 2017 No, ID Tail the same length as the wings makes this a poorwill. Whips should have a tail that is longer than the wings.
Stephanie G. 16 May 2017 No, ID Short tail indicates Common Poorwill
Dennis S. 16 May 2017 No, ID A Common Poorwill!
Steve S. 15 Jun 2017 No, ID The much more expected Common Poorwill which this bird seems to be is not even mentioned in the similar species section of the report.
Mark S. 2 Jun 2017 No, ID Clearly a Common Poorwill.
Larry T. 16 Jun 2017 No, ID Didn't see video but small pic looks like a poorwill.
David W. 15 May 2017 No, ID Poorwill.
Kevin W. 17 Jun 2017 No, ID The short tail on the bird on the video indicate that it is more likely a Common Poorwill, which would be the more likely species throughout Utah. The Submitter did not eliminate Poorwill as a possible species.

 

2017-27  Blackpoll Warbler

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 17 Jun 2017 Acc  

2nd round:  

15 Jul 2017 Acc In agreement with David, I think the observer effectively eliminated a Black-throated Gray Warbler.
Kenny F. 19 May 2017 Acc Visual and audio description matches Blackpoll Warbler.

2nd round:  

19 Jul 2017 Acc Observer rules out Black-throated Gray in the description and describes a Blackpoll Warbler.
Stephanie G. 18 Jun 2017 Acc Description of call and bird seems to fit well and effectively rules out other species.

2nd round:  

26 Jul 2017 Acc I still think that other species were ruled out by the detailed description given.
Dennis S. 16 May 2017 Acc Excellent detailed report and comparisons.

2nd round:  

12 Jul 2017 Acc Report still leaves little doubt.
Steve S. 15 Jun 2017 Acc  

2nd round:  

7 Aug 2017 Acc I think other similar species have been adequately eliminated.
Mark S. 2 Jun 2017 Acc Good description; eliminates similar species.

2nd round:  

26 Jul 2017 Acc I think Black-throated Gray is adequately eliminated, especially by an observer who is very familiar with BTYW, and has had recent experience with BLPW.
Larry T. 16 Jun 2017 No, ID BT gray? The described call sounds like one.

2nd round:  

31 Jul 2017 No, ID I guess I might be the only one not convinced with this bird.

First off Blackpoll is very rare in the west and as we all know there are many BT Grays going through at that time singing a song that is often a rapid single zee zee zee zee or zeet zeet zeet zeet that could very easily be confused as a Blackpoll. The habitat is great for a BT Gray but totally wrong for a vagrant Blackpoll. A Blackpoll isn't going to be a foot off the ground in desert scrub. It's going to be in riparian habitat probably in tall cottonwoods.

I don't like a 10 second sighting that could easily be confused with a BT Gray in their habitat. A lot could be missed, (yellow spot) or jumping to quick conclusions in that time frame. Could they have been looking at a female BT Gray while a male was singing in the same bush as common as they can be.

I can't see this record being unanimous even though it's going through. Just for the record.
David W. 17 May 2017 Acc Description is convincing.

2nd round:  

24 Jun 2017 Acc Kevin's comments made me pause and go back to look at the record again. However, I think the observer does a good job eliminating Black-throated gray warbler with field marks such as:
1) "Distinct chickadee-like head pattern of black cap and white cheeks (but no black bib)"
2) "Black lateral throat stripe"
3) Song rendered as "seet-seet-seet-seet-seet-seet-seet-seet" is a perfect match for Blackpoll but not as good for Black-throated gray.
Kevin W. 17 Jun 2017 No, ID Although the description is excellent for a Blackpoll Warbler, the submitter indicates that the bird flitted around and flew for about 10 seconds during which the observations were made. I think that the habitat is unlikely for a vagrant Blackpoll Warbler, but more likely for a Black-throated Gray, for which it may have been confused during the brief looks.

2nd round:  

23 Aug 2017 No, ID I'm sticking with my original conclusion. I agree with Larry's thoughts.

 

2017-28  White-eyed Vireo

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 17 Jun 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 19 May 2017 Acc Nice shots of a WEVI.
Stephanie G. 18 Jun 2017 Acc Straightforward record with quality photos.
Dennis S. 16 May 2017 Acc Excellent substantiating photos. Actually met John on the Antelope Island Causeway later in the morning he found it. Saw his photos and took off promptly for Diamond Fork Canyon.
Steve S. 15 Jun 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 2 Jun 2017 Acc Well documented, unmistakable.
Larry T. 30 Jul 2017 Acc  
David W. 17 May 2017 Acc There is nothing in North America which looks anything like this pale-eyed bird. The song is also consistent.
Kevin W. 17 Jun 2017 Acc Photos show distinct characteristics of a White-eyed Vireo

 

2017-29  Palm Warbler

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 15 Jul 2017 Acc  

2nd round:  

5 Aug 2017 Acc This bird was seen twice on the same day and the sightings were 3-1/2 hours apart. Both sight records independently identify the bird as a Palm Warbler, and taken together provide enough description and observation time for me to accept the record.
Kenny F. 19 May 2017 Acc Description sounds good for Palm Warbler

2nd round:  

22 Sep 2017 Acc No changes on my thoughts.
Stephanie G. 18 Jun 2017 No, ID I'm going to vote no to push it to the second round. Evidence is sparse with no photos.

2nd round:  

25 Aug 2017 Acc The fact that more than one person saw the bird helped sway me to accept the record.
Dennis S. 16 May 2017 Acc Provisional acceptance. Want to see what other committee members think. Wonder about the observance (lacking) of the continual tail wagging habit. Quick observance time brings some doubt also, but not sure what else it could have been.

2nd round:  

9 Oct 2017 Acc No additions.
Steve S. 15 Jun 2017 Acc  

2nd round:  

7 Aug 2017 Acc I still believe the description fits Palm Warbler.
Mark S. 2 Jun 2017 Acc Description fits; not a difficult i.d. for experienced observers.

2nd round:  

1 Oct 2017 Acc The record still looks good to me, since this is not a species likely to be confused with others; now with a second, more complete observation to bolster the evidence.
Larry T. 30 Jul 2017 Acc  

2nd round:  

1 Oct 2017 Acc  
David W. 17 May 2017 Acc I am not entirely comfortable with the description (yellow face?), but agree with the observer that nothing else comes to mind. I wish there had been more details in this record. No tail wagging noted?

2nd round:  

24 Aug 2017 Acc My thoughts on this have not changed..
Kevin W. 17 Jun 2017 Acc The description from both observers lead to Palm Warbler; I can't think of anything else it may have been.

2nd round:  

23 Aug 2017 Acc The descriptions from multiple observers seem sufficient.

 

2017-30  Little Gull

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 15 Jul 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 19 May 2017 Acc Pics look good for Little Gull.
Stephanie G. 18 Jun 2017 Acc Straightforward record, photographed and documented well.
Dennis S. 25 May 2017 Acc Seen by many people. Only question might be a small Bonapart's, but probably enough for acceptance.
Steve S. 15 Jun 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 3 Jun 2017 Acc That's a little gull . . . .
Larry T. 30 Jul 2017 Acc  
David W. 18 May 2017 Acc Well, that's just adorable. I especially appreciate photo C to show us the relative size difference between this bird and the pelicans--it cinched the ID for me. I do wish a stronger case had been made to eliminate a Bonaparte's gull, but I am won over regardless.
Kevin W. 17 Jun 2017 Acc Photos show a distinct dark cap to this gull, separating it from the more likely Bonaparte's Gull.

 

2017-31  Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 20 May 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 19 May 2017 Acc Nice shots of a beautiful rarity.
Stephanie G. 18 Jun 2017 Acc Unique species eliminates other possibilities. Photographed well, seems to be wild bird..
Dennis S. 25 May 2017 Acc No problems with this great find. Too bad it left so fast.
Steve S. 15 Jun 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 3 Jun 2017 Acc Unmistakable..
Larry T. 30 Jul 2017 Acc  
David W. 19 May 2017 Acc Very entertaining and convincing account. The beautiful photos are definitive.
Kevin W. 17 Jun 2017 Acc Photos show unique characteristics of Scissor-tailed Flycatcher.

 

2017-32  Brown Pelican

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 15 Jul 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 7 Jun 2017 Acc Photos show a once-living northern Utah Brown Pelican.
Stephanie G. 26 Jul 2017 Acc Photo clearly shows Brown Pelican
Dennis S. 25 May 2017 Acc Even dead there's not much question.
Steve S. 15 Jun 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 3 Jun 2017 Acc Looks good for Brown Pelican - the only possibility would be an oiled White Pelican, but the bill color would seem to eliminate that.
Larry T. 30 Jul 2017 Acc  
David W. 24 May 2017 Acc Odd to be voting on a dead bird, but not unprecedented. Photo seems indeed to show a Brown pelican.
Kevin W. 17 Jun 2017 Acc Photos show unique characteristics of Brown Pelican.

 

2017-33  Golden-winged Warbler

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 15 Jul 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 7 Jun 2017 Acc Nice shots of one of the more rare warblers in the state.
Stephanie G. 26 Jul 2017 Acc Clear photos
Dennis S. 28 May 2017 Acc No problems. A great find. Good report and photos. Got to run, I'm on my way!
Steve S. 15 Jun 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 3 Jun 2017 Acc Photos show a Golden-winged Warbler.
Larry T. 31 Jul 2017 Acc Nice bird for Utah.
David W. 30 May 2017 Acc I do not see sign of hybridization if the description of whitish gray underparts be accurate (the photos are not conclusive because they seem to have a yellowish wash).
Kevin W. 17 Jun 2017 Acc Photos show characteristics of Golden-winged Warbler, including Yellow crown and wing-panel and striking black auriculars and throat.

 

2017-34  Scissor-tailed Flycatcher

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 15 Jul 2017 Acc  

2nd round:  

5 Aug 2017 Acc Even with the short observation time, STFL is fairly easy to ID, especially if the observer is familiar with the species.
Kenny F. 7 Jun 2017 Acc Good description of the bird as well as the separation from Fork-tailed Flycatcher.

2nd round:  

22 Sep 2017 Acc Description of the tail seems to rule out other species.
Stephanie G. 26 Jul 2017 Acc While there are no photos, I'm inclined to approve based on the description and the fact that it's a pretty distinctive ID.

2nd round:  

25 Aug 2017 Acc Detailed description; would be hard to mistake this bird
Dennis S. 22 Jul 2017 Acc Even though the report has marginal details, I can't think of anything else that could be confused with an adequate length of time sighting of a STFL. The timing is also right for this known to wander, migratory species and simply may have overshot it's normal range

2nd round:  

9 Oct 2017 Acc No further thoughts.
Steve S. 15 Jun 2017 Acc  

2nd round:  

7 Aug 2017 Acc Fairly easy ID with a decent description by an observer familiar with this species.
Mark S. 3 Jun 2017 Acc Description fits, and not a difficult i.d. There have been several sightings in surrounding states this Spring.

2nd round:  

1 Oct 2017 Acc As per my first round comments.
Larry T. 31 Jul 2017 Acc Pretty easy ID that you don't need much time for if your familiar with the species.

2nd round:  

20 Oct 2017 Acc  
David W. 31 May 2017 Acc A veritable invasion this year, it seems.

2nd round:  

24 Aug 2017 Acc As before.
Kevin W. 17 Jun 2017 No, ID It seems that much of the identification from the submitter was based on the observation of a long tail for about 10 seconds of flight. I wonder if he may have been observing a different species carrying nesting material, and jumped to the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher conclusion.

2nd round:  

23 Aug 2017 Acc I still wish that the description of the bird was better, but the submitter did say he saw the tail well.

 

2017-35  Zone-tailed Hawk

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 15 Jul 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 7 Jun 2017 Acc Nice shots of this species.

I was wondering if this species should be taken off the review list since it seems to be a rare breeder in Washington County. There are over 40 sightings on ebird of this species. Along the same vein, should Painted Redstart be removed as well? It is also a rare breeder in the state but is annual in Zion NP.
Stephanie G. 26 Jul 2017 Acc Clear photos
Dennis S. 2 Jun 2017 Acc Nice!
Steve S. 15 Jun 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 5 Jun 2017 Acc Nice photos.
Larry T. 31 Jul 2017 Acc Seems to be a few around every year. Maybe it's time to take it off the review list.
David W. 1 Jun 2017 Acc Another superbly documented record... [Coff! Coff! Ahem.]
Kevin W. 17 Jun 2017 Acc Photos show good distinct characteristics of Zone-tailed Hawk, including the banded tail and light pattern on the underside of the wings.

 

2017-36  Vaux's Swift

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 15 Jul 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 7 Jun 2017 Acc Good pics rule out Chimney Swift.

Is this another species that should be taken off the review list? It seems to be an rare but annual migrant in Utah with over 30 records on ebird of it.
Stephanie G. 26 Jul 2017 Acc Body shape looks good
Dennis S. 2 Jun 2017 Acc Convincing report!
Steve S. 15 Jun 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 5 Jun 2017 Acc Sorry, David, I can't talk you out of this i.d. - looks like Vaux's to me. Regarding the "fanned tail" field mark, I don't think this is reliable, as both species do it at about the same frequency, in my experience.
Larry T. 31 Jul 2017 Acc  
David W. 1 Jun 2017 Acc I am curious how the rest of the Committee votes on this record.
Kevin W. 17 Jun 2017 Acc Difficult to distinguish based on photos from possible (but less likely) Chimney Swift, although I think Photo F shows a lighter throat, and the wings do seem shorter in some photos than a Chimney Swift's would be.

 

2017-37  Northern Parula

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 15 Jul 2017 Acc Although I was not able to listen to the recording and there are no photos, I believe the description sufficiently identifies this species.
Kenny F. 7 Jun 2017 Acc Description and audio match Northern Parula.
Stephanie G. 26 Jul 2017 Acc Audio and description match well
Dennis S. 2 Jun 2017 Acc Reporters experience with species (NOPA) leaves very little doubt.
Steve S. 15 Jun 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 5 Jun 2017 Acc Description is good, and the observer is experienced with this species.
Larry T. 31 Jul 2017 Acc  
David W. 24 Jun 2017 Acc "Looks" and sounds good.
Kevin W. 17 Jun 2017 Acc The description fits Northern Parula well, and seems to eliminate other possibilities. I couldn't play the call on my computer.

 

2017-38  Connecticut Warbler

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 15 Jul 2017 Acc Description and behavior indicate Connecticut Warbler.

2nd round:  

9 Sep 2017 Acc Although I understand reluctance to accept this record because there is no photo or additional evidence, the description fits a Connecticut Warbler so my acceptance remains unchanged.
Kenny F. 7 Jun 2017 Acc Even though MacGillivray's can rarely show a complete eyering, all the other field marks point towards a Connecticut Warbler.

2nd round:  

22 Sep 2017 Acc Description still seems to match especially the part about working the ground which is much more likely in Connecticut vs MacGillivray's. Also seems to rule out well all other likely species.
Stephanie G. 26 Jul 2017 No, ID Not sure that without photos we can accept this record, with so many species that are close, especially when sometimes MacGillivray's can have eye-archs that can almost look like a ring.

2nd round:  

25 Aug 2017 No, ID I don't think that similar species can be reliably ruled out, especially without photos. 
Dennis S. 22 Jul 2017 No, ID This is a tough one! After looking at this record off and on for some time now, I'm not convinced of it's identity. I think it was most likely a Opornis Sp. warbler, and probably an immature. But the separation of these three species, especially immatures, presents all kinds of problems. There's no distinct features that always fit for each one, with overlap of - extent and thickness of eyering, amount and brightness of yellow underparts, and throat color -brown to yellow to grayish. Of "white-ish throat and below", I wonder!

2nd round:  

9 Oct 2017 No, ID Still may have been, but too many shadows with other immature Oporornis warblers.
Steve S. 15 Jun 2017 Acc  

2nd round:  

7 Aug 2017 Acc I've gone back and forth on this so many times but I still believe the description best fits this species.
Mark S. 5 Jun 2017 No, ID I'm voting no because I would like to have some discussion on this record. The description is good, and would seem to eliminate similar species, though I'm concerned about accepting such a rare bird without a description of the tail and undertail coverts, that are important field marks for this species.

I don't have a problem per se with accepting this record, but would like to have some discussion first.

2nd round:  

1 Oct 2017 No, ID I don't think that first year MacGillivray's can be eliminated from this description.
Larry T. 31 Jul 2017 No, ID Could have been a Connecticut but not enough there. Certainly need a photo for something that rare from a observer who hasn't any experience with the species.

2nd round:  

20 Oct 2017 No, ID I still don't think there's enough to accept this rare species.
David W. 25 Jun 2017 No, ID Boy, I went back & forth on this record. The record sounds good for a Connecticut warbler in most respects, but I am troubled by the description of the underparts as dull yellow to white. Every illustration I've seen shows yellow underparts in all plumages. It is unfortunate the tail length was not observed, as that would have helped in our decision. As it is, I am not sure that a Connecticut warbler is a better match than an immature Yellowthroat, Virginia's, or Mourning warbler. I suspect this may go to the second round, so I'm curious what the others think.

2nd round:  

24 Aug 2017 No, ID Maybe. But maybe isn't good enough.
Kevin W. 17 Jun 2017 No, ID The description fits Connecticut Warbler well, but I think based on the few other accepted records (2) and likelihood of this being a misidentified MacGillivray's Warbler, that additional evidence (photo or recording?) may be needed.

2nd round:  

23 Aug 2017 No, ID I think for such a rare bird that is similar to more expected birds, a better description or photo is necessary for acceptance (in other words, extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.

 

2017-39  Least Flycatcher

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 15 Jul 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 19 Jul 2017 Acc Photo and audio match Least Flycatcher.
Stephanie G. 26 Jul 2017 Acc All signs point to Least
Dennis S. 21 Jun 2017 Acc  
Steve S. 7 Aug 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 26 Jul 2017 Acc Good documentation; both the photo and recording are definitive for Least Flycatcher.
Larry T. 31 Jul 2017 Acc  
David W. 24 Jun 2017 Acc  
Kevin W. 23 Aug 2017 Acc Both the recording and characteristics from the photos (big head, eye ring, short-primary projection) lead me to conclude that the observer was correct.

 

2017-40  Least Flycatcher

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 15 Jul 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 19 Jul 2017 Acc Photo and audio match Least Flycatcher.
Stephanie G. 26 Jul 2017 Acc Well documented and widely seen bird.
Dennis S. 21 Jun 2017 Acc  
Steve S. 7 Aug 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 26 Jul 2017 Acc Call is of Least Flycatcher.
Larry T. 31 Jul 2017 Acc  
David W. 24 Jun 2017 Acc Sparse but audible.
Kevin W. 23 Aug 2017 Acc The audio is not the greatest, but I could hear it if I turned up the volume. I do think that the call most resembles a Least Flycatcher.

 

2017-41  White Ibis

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 15 Jul 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 19 Jul 2017 Acc Well-documented, long-staying rarity!
Stephanie G. 26 Jul 2017 Acc Seems to be a legitimate sighting. I checked with the local zoo and aviary and no one was missing a White Ibis. I also talked to my contact who owns an aviary in Idaho and knows the other aviary owners around. He hasn't heard of anyone missing a White Ibis from their collection. No banding.
Dennis S. 21 Jun 2017 Acc  
Steve S. 7 Aug 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 29 Jul 2017 Acc I guess this is rather well documented. ;-)
Larry T. 31 Jul 2017 Acc  
David W. 24 Jun 2017 Acc Yup.
Kevin W. 23 Aug 2017 Acc Photos show a distinctive White Ibis.

 

2017-42  Eastern Towhee

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 15 Jul 2017 No, ID Meager description of bird and call, inadequate elimination of similar species. "Western variant" might have been a Spotted Towhee?
Kenny F. 19 Jul 2017 No, ID Observer doesn't seem to realize that Spotted Towhees will repeat the "your tea" portion of the "drink your tea call" that Eastern Towhees sing.

Also the observer never saw the back which would be useful in seeing it was a Spotted Towhee
Stephanie G. 26 Jul 2017 No, ID I don't think we can rule out Spotted Towhee
Dennis S. 24 Jun 2017 No, ID Not convinced it simply wasn't a Spotted Towhee. More needed for a 1st of State record.
Steve S. 7 Aug 2017 No, ID Without a description of the difference between Eastern and Spotted Towhee and only a partial song heard I can't accept this record.
Mark S. 29 Jul 2017 No, ID Spotted Towhee not eliminated. Description of the song sounds more like that species, and no distinguishing visual field marks were noted.
Larry T. 31 Jul 2017 No, ID I think I would need to see a photo of this bird.
David W. 24 Jun 2017 No, ID The visual observation is anything but definitive (could be Spotted towhee, junco, etc) and the description of the song matches many Spotted towhees I've heard in Utah. The second Spotted towhee on the Cornell's Guide to Bird Sounds is an individual which sings "drink ti-i-i-i-i-i-i" like this bird was said to do. Even in Utah towhees urge us to drink tea.

Although Eastern towhees do indeed often sound different than our western ones (which in turn can be subdivided into several regions on the basis of their song repertoire), this record does not provide enough detail of the song to make that judgement either way. If anything, however, I'd say the description sounds more like our Spotted towhee than an Eastern interloper.

The local hotline was alerted to this bird, so perhaps someone will venture up and provide further evidence to support the Eastern towhee claim. But until then I will vote "no".
Kevin W. 23 Aug 2017 No, ID More likely a Spotted Towhee, which was not adequately eliminated with the description.

 

2017-43  Zone-tailed Hawk

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 5 Aug 2017 Acc  

2nd round:  

15 Sep 2017 Acc Description and elimination of similar species indicate Zone-tailed Hawk.
Kenny F. 19 Jul 2017 Acc Sounds like a Zone-tailed Hawk. Observer ruled out Turkey Vulture well. Should this species be taken off the review list?

2nd round:  

22 Sep 2017 Acc Adequately rules out TV.
Stephanie G. 26 Jul 2017 No, ID I'm not sure what to think about this sighting. No photo, but a pretty detailed description. However, it seemed to be in a high-wind situation and no optics were used. I'm voting no to push it through to a second round for discussion.

2nd round:  

1 Oct 2017 Acc Accept with hesitation. I don't like that no optics were used and it was under extremely windy conditions but I suppose if the white tail bands were clearly visible it seems fairly reliable.
Dennis S. 24 Jun 2017 Acc Good detailed and convincing description of identifying characters and comparison with similar species.

2nd round:  

9 Oct 2017 Acc No additional thoughts.
Steve S. 7 Aug 2017 Acc  

2nd round:  

18 Sep 2017 Acc All similar species have been addressed and eliminated
Mark S. 29 Jul 2017 Acc Good description, and similar species well-considered. The one similar species I suspected initially was a dark Swainson's, but the described tail pattern is inconsistent with that species.

2nd round:  

1 Oct 2017 Acc No further thoughts.
Larry T. 14 Sep 2017 Acc  

2nd round:  

20 Oct 2017 Acc  
David W. 24 Jun 2017 Acc Interesting record from a part of Utah where I would not expect to find them. This record is far to the NE of their regular Utah range..

2nd round:  

15 Sep 2017 Acc Although I am vaguely troubled by some of the description of this bird (broad wings??), I don't see what else it would be.
Kevin W. 23 Aug 2017 Acc The description fits Zone-tailed Hawk, and eliminates other possibilities.

2nd round:  

26 Nov 2017 Acc No additional thoughts

 

2017-44  Palm Warbler

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 5 Aug 2017 Acc  

2nd round:  

28 Nov 2017 Acc The description indicates Palm Warbler more than any other species.
Kenny F. 20 Nov 2017 No, ID There haven't been any sightings in the west of this species in the last 2 weeks of June.

Doesn't rule out other potential species including Nashville Warbler which although would still be rare at this date, would be more likely than PAWA.

2nd round:  

20 Nov 2017 No, ID Still doesn't adequately rule out other species.
Stephanie G. 26 Jul 2017 No, ID Again, another record with no photo. Fairly good description but I'm voting "no" to push through to second round for discussion.

2nd round:  

11 Oct 2017 No, ID Other species not effectively ruled out.
Dennis S. 22 Jul 2017 No, ID This record may have been a PAWA, but several troublesome aspects are apparent. No description of under parts color - whitish/yellow with/without streaking, no note of any tail wagging - which is a surefire habit of PAWA, and timing of record. It would be Utah's first record of a PAWA in the summer months, all have been in spring and fall when migrating.

2nd round:  

30 Oct 2017 No, ID Still have doubts.
Steve S. 7 Aug 2017 Acc  

2nd round:  

16 Nov 2017 Acc I still can't think of anything else that fits this description
Mark S. 29 Jul 2017 Acc Combination of rufous cap and yellow underparts eliminates most other warbler-like species.

2nd round:  

17 Oct 2017 No, ID I'm torn by this record. On the one hand, I have a hard time reconciling the description with other species - the combination of extensive rufous cap, thin bill, and yellow throat and vent doesn't really fit anything else.

On the other hand, the timing of the record is unusual, but not unheard of - there are a smattering of western records in the weeks before and after this date. And there's the issue of certain features, such as tail-wagging and breast streaking that weren't noted.

I'll change my vote this round on the grounds that the supporting evidence is inadequate for the rarity of the sighting, even though I would still call this a Palm Warbler, based upon the description given, and am not convinced that the potential alternatives offered here fit.
Larry T. 14 Sep 2017 Acc  

2nd round:  

20 Oct 2017 No, ID I will change my vote on this one. The description fits palm but is missing distinct tail wagging ( which would be hard to miss ) and it is at an unusual time.
David W. 25 Jul 2017 No, ID I don't know, but I'm just not seeing enough here to 100% eliminate a Virginia's warbler (which can appear to have yellow throats). Perhaps the rest of you can convince me to change my vote the second round. I am uneasy about the lack of mention of streaking on the breast, tail wagging, and I'd describe overall color on most of the ones I've seen as somehow more dingy brown than brownish gray (though that's a nuance prone to subjective description)... I'm simply left wanting more--maybe I'm just greedy.

2nd round:  

11 Oct 2017 No, ID In reading everyone's comments, I am but reaffirmed in my first round vote
Kevin W. 10 Oct 2017 Acc The description fits Palm Warbler, and eliminates other possibilities.

2nd round:  

26 Nov 2017 No, ID Upon reading others' comments, it seems that there isn't enough evidence to decisively eliminate other species or conclude this one's identification.

 

2017-45  Scaled Quail

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 5 Aug 2017 No, Nat The photos clearly show Scaled Quail, but they are most likely escapees from captivity or introduced. Scaled quail can be readily purchased from game farms and this observation is quite far from the expected natural range of this species.

2nd round:  

28 Nov 2017 No, Nat No further comments.
Kenny F. 22 Sep 2017 No, Nat I think that it is most likely these birds were released by hunters in the area since the nearest location that they naturally exist near the 4 corners is over 100 miles away. Also DNR has only been releasing birds in extreme southeastern Utah, not anywhere near Boulder.

2nd round:  

20 Nov 2017 No, Nat Not likely to be a wild population.
Stephanie G. 25 Aug 2017 No, Nat A sighting this far from the known range without any sightings in between doesn't seem likely.

2nd round:  

11 Oct 2017 No, Nat Not likely to be a wild population.
Dennis S. 30 Jul 2017 Acc Not much question - SAQU. Maybe a little gray area about origin, but appears to be legit.

2nd round:  

30 Oct 2017 No, Nat Good 1st Round responses raise the likelihood of captive reared escaped bird(s). I agree.
Steve S. 7 Aug 2017 No, Nat No doubt ID is correct but distance to known localities and non-migratory status leave me to doubt that this is a naturally occurring bird.

2nd round:  

16 Nov 2017 No, Nat No changes in thought..
Mark S. 29 Jul 2017 No, Nat This is clearly a Scaled Quail, but I'm hesitant to accept this as a "natural" sighting, given these factors:

1) The distance and difficult environment between this location and the known range of occurrence of this species, or introductions by UDWR.

2) The marginal habitat for this species in the area of the sighting.

3) The ease with which these birds can be acquired on the avicultural market, and the common occurrence of this species in captivity.

4) The apparent comfort and lack of shyness around human habitation and activity, for a normally timid species.

I think natural occurrence is therefore doubtful.

2nd round:  

17 Oct 2017 No, Nat As per my first round comments.
Larry T. 14 Sep 2017 No, Nat  

2nd round:  

20 Oct 2017 No, Nat Still worried about natural occurrence.
David W. 26 Jul 2017 Acc A bit far from their usual range. Does anyone know about game farms in that area?

2nd round:  

11 Oct 2017 No, Nat The eloquent arguments for doubt by those such as Mark convince me that doubt is the prudent course here.
Kevin W. 10 Oct 2017 No, Nat This observation is far from other populations, and is likely a released bird.

2nd round:  

26 Nov 2017 No, Nat No additional thoughts

 

2017-46  Arctic Tern

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 9 Sep 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 22 Sep 2017 Acc As well documented for a state first as you could hope for.
Stephanie G. 25 Aug 2017 Acc Observed and photographed by many and well
Dennis S. 9 Oct 2017 Acc Good descriptions and photos. Seen by many over several days.
Steve S. 18 Sep 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 1 Oct 2017 Acc Excellent documentation of an amazing, if long overdue, record.
Larry T. 1 Oct 2017 Acc Looks good to me. Nice photos.
David W. 15 Sep 2017 Acc This is a very well written pair of sight records. They nicely address an abundance of subtle field marks that together make for a very convincing case. Very nicely documented.
Kevin W. 10 Oct 2017 Acc Great photos and good description, eliminating similar species.

 

2017-47  Chestnut-sided Warbler

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 20 Oct 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 22 Sep 2017 Acc Photos look good for a Chestnut-sided Warbler.
Stephanie G. 1 Oct 2017 Acc Clear photos
Dennis S. 9 Oct 2017 Acc Photos leave no question.
Steve S. 18 Sep 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 8 Nov 2017 Acc Good documentation.
Larry T. 20 Oct 2017 Acc  
David W. 19 Sep 2017 Acc  
Kevin W. 10 Oct 2017 Acc Good photos showing distinctive traits of a Chestnut-sided Warbler

 

 

2017-48  Prothonotary Warbler

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 20 Nov 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 20 Nov 2017 Acc Great description and habitat for this species.
Stephanie G. 11 Oct 2017 Acc Good description.
Dennis S. 31 Oct 2017 Acc Good detailed report and comparison with other similar warblers..
Steve S. 16 Nov 2017 Acc As usual Kris has written a thorough report.
Mark S. 17 Oct 2017 Acc Excellent description eliminates similar species.
Larry T. 20 Oct 2017 Acc  
David W. 26 Sep 2017 Acc Poetic and convincing description..
Kevin W. 26 Nov 2017 Acc I think the description fits Prothonotary Warbler well, and eliminates similar species. It would be nice to have a photo.

 

2017-49  Ruff

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 20 Nov 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 20 Nov 2017 Acc Photos look good for a Ruff.
Stephanie G. 11 Oct 2017 Acc Clear photos
Dennis S. 9 Oct 2017 Acc Seen by many. Good photos.
Steve S. 16 Nov 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 17 Oct 2017 Acc Good photos, adequate description.
Larry T. 20 Oct 2017 Acc  
David W. 28 Sep 2017 Acc What gloriously orange legs! Another fine record from Mr. B. Olsen, Utah's birder at large. If Bryant keeps this up, we may get to remove every bird from the review list.
Kevin W. 26 Nov 2017 Acc Photos show good field marks of a ruff, including the orange legs, and orange base of the bill.

 

2017-50  Tennessee Warbler

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 20 Nov 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 20 Nov 2017 Acc Well documented warbler.
Stephanie G. 11 Oct 2017 Acc Photos clearly show diagnostic white undertail coverts.
Dennis S. 9 Oct 2017 Acc Photos show what's needed.
Steve S. 16 Nov 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 18 Oct 2017 Acc Photos show a Tennessee Warbler.
Larry T. 21 Nov 2017 Acc  
David W. 6 Oct 2017 Acc Sparce prose, but an enormous compendium of excellent photos to which this record was linked.
Kevin W. 26 Nov 2017 Acc The photographs show white undertail coverts indicative of Tennessee Warbler. It is odd that there isn't much eyebrow. 

 

2017-51  Zone-tailed Hawk

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 20 Nov 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 20 Nov 2017 Acc Well-described and separated from Turkey Vulture.
Stephanie G. 11 Oct 2017 Acc Description seems to rule out other possibilities.
Dennis S. 31 Oct 2017 Acc Good enough comparison to Turkey Vulture for acceptance -tail banding, head color and shape.
Steve S. 16 Nov 2017 Acc My only concern is that the submitter states that the bird was "Large Vulture-sized" when it should appear noticably smaller. But without a side by side comparison this can be hard to judge. The rest of the report seems to make this the correct ID.
Mark S. 18 Oct 2017 Acc Good description eliminates similar species.
Larry T. 21 Nov 2017 Acc  
David W. 4 Oct 2017 No, ID I was initially going to vote to accept, but I am disturbed by the description of three tail bands. What black hawk has that? Broad-winged hawk?? Does the observer mean three bands in black-white-black pattern (like a Common black hawk)?? Other field marks support the Zone-tailed, but this seems inconsistent. It gives me pause that the observer only dealt with a turkey vulture in the Similar Species portion rather than a Black hawk (which is resident there, as we all know). Unfortunately, there is no description of how narrow the wings were.
Kevin W. 26 Nov 2017 No, ID While the bird observed could have been a Zone-tailed Hawk, I don't think the observer adequately eliminates the possibility of it being a Common Black Hawk, which would be more expected in the area and habitat.

 

2017-52  Black-throated Blue Warbler

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 20 Nov 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 20 Nov 2017 Acc Great shot of a beautiful male.
Stephanie G. 11 Oct 2017 Acc Photos clearly show Black-throated Blue Warbler
Dennis S. 9 Oct 2017 Acc Great photos.
Steve S. 16 Nov 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 18 Oct 2017 Acc No doubt on this one.
Larry T. 21 Nov 2017 Acc  
David W. 4 Oct 2017 Acc Photos and description make this clear.
Kevin W. 26 Oct 2017 Acc Photos clearly show distinctive male Black-throated Blue Warlber

 

2017-53  Tennessee Warbler

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 20 Nov 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 20 Nov 2017 Acc Description matches Tennessee Warbler.
Stephanie G. 11 Oct 2017 No, ID Other species not effectively ruled out.
Dennis S. 31 Oct 2017 Acc Adequate description for acceptance - similar to OCWA but white under tail coverts.
Steve S. 16 Nov 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 18 Oct 2017 Acc This is a weak "accept," based upon the scant description and binocular-less views, that cause a bit of doubt.

However, the key field marks were noted, and the date is appropriate for this sighting.
Larry T. 21 Nov 2017 No, ID 30 Seconds without Binns?
David W. 6 Oct 2017 Acc "Naked birding"?? This is a thing? Was there a jacuzzi involved? (I only ask because of the distortive effects of steam)

The description was a bit skimpy, unadorned with much detail, but the important bits were there. Despite my moral outrage at West Valley birding practices, I will vote to accept.
Kevin W. 26 Nov 2017 Acc Description fits Tennessee Warbler and eliminates Orange-crowned Warbler.

 

2017-54  Broad-billed Hummingbird

Evaluator Date Vote Comment
Kathy B. 20 Nov 2017 Acc  
Kenny F. 20 Nov 2017 Acc Good shots of a Broad-billed Hummingbird. Cool that there are 2 in the state.
Stephanie G. 11 Oct 2017 Acc Clear photos.
Dennis S. 9 Oct 2017 Acc Nice photos.
Steve S. 16 Nov 2017 Acc  
Mark S. 18 Oct 2017 Acc Odd to see one perched in a juniper.
Larry T. 21 Nov 2017 Acc  
David W. 6 Oct 2017 Acc You had me at Photo A. (Though I did greatly enjoy the effort to establish this was a hummingbird at all, especially the fact that it came to a hummingbird feeder). Wonderful to have two in the state at the same time.
Kevin W. 26 Nov 2017 Acc Photos clearly show distinct Broad-billed Hummingbird Male.