LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 18 decEMBER 2024

Moorhead Park, Ida Grove, IA

I am seeing two saw-whets most every day now. Here are some views from today’s walk. Saw-whet’s tend to eat the head first.

Don P., Ida Grove, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 16 decEMBER 2024

Snyder Bend County Park

It was a crappy light day when I went out, around 2:00 PM at Snyder Bend. But it was warmer, although very gusty to the point the wind almost knocked me over as I tried to photograph with my tele zoom. But after 6 intense days of being indoors photographing volleyball (good games) and then an editorial assignment, I needed to get outside and I didn't fall because of slick conditions or have problems driving.

Eagles, geese, various ducks that I could make out, sparrows, ring-billed gulls. Hundreds of geese and maybe a couple hundred ducks down past the observation deck. I saw eagles fly over there as well as up by the parking lot. They landed on the ice thought down by the geese. A couple ducks I am not certain about. Thought some might be those buffleheads, but not quite right (Common Merganser and Common Goldeneye). Maybe some mallards and blue winged teals amongst the geese on the ice.

I walked down the dirt trail and positioned myself behind a stand of trees near the edge overlooking the lake and hidden from the geese and ducks. The weeds are pretty tall along the trail there so one is partially hidden if not walking in a hurry I don't think they took notice of me.

There are no keepers among the pics, but fun still to capture them in flight and hanging out.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 10 decEMBER 2024

Broken Kettle Grasslands

Broken Kettle Grasslands has been quite active with birds this week. Here are some of the highlights.

Golden Eagles continue as of December 10. A first year bird has been present for a month with a second year bird showing up last week. An adult showed up in November but has not been seen recently.
Many other raptors have been regularly or semi-regularly present on the preserve in the last week including Bald Eagle, Rough-legged Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Merlin, Cooper’s Hawk, Sharp-shinned Hawk, American Kestrel, and Northern Harrier.
A Northern Shrike has taken up residence below the benches on Butcher Road and another has been hanging out on North Ridge Road near the intersection with Bluebird Road.
At least two Long-eared Owls are present this week, one yesterday and one today (12/10) in separate locations. They were both seen in the bison pasture which is inaccessible to the public. It should be noted, however, that many cedar stands (which is where I found both birds) exist south of Butcher Road at the Stevenson Preserve and Joy Hollow portions of Broken Kettle which are both open for hiking and there are almost certainly owls over there too.
Two "red-shafted" Northern Flickers were at the preserve this week as well, a female yesterday and a male today (12/10). Both Red-shafted and Yellow-shafted Flickers are the same species (Northern Flicker) but the Red-shafted are an uncommon winter visitor from the west. I saw some hybrid flickers earlier this fall but both individuals this week showed know signs of hybridization between the two morphs.
Purple Finches are also present in good numbers with up to 28 sighted today. They really gravitate toward red cedar and ash tree stands.
Other notable passerines on the past two week include White-throated Sparrows, Brown Creeper, Golden-crowned Kinglet, and Eastern Bluebirds.

Good Birding,

Tucker L., Broken Kettle Grasslands

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 30 NOVEMBER 2024

Saturday Snowfall

There were 20-40 House Sparrows in this neighborhood backyard, until, whooooossshhhhhhh! They were gone. A Cooper's Hawk, hungry I am sure, and the birds were nervous as I saw those two house sparrows looking up in the direction of the hawk when I photographed them.

And finally, I haven't seen many juncos this year, and recently, one shows up. Although now the Blue Jays have begged off.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE friDAY, 29 NOVEMBER 2024

Moorehead Park, Ida Grove, IA

This morning started out with a cold temperature of 9 degrees. I started to check several hundred pine trees, in search of our little Saw-whet Owls. After nearly one hour, I found two Saw-whet owls. Both seemed un-afraid and allowed me to record them both on my camera from a safe distance.

If any of you are close to Moorehead Park, Ida Grove, I would still be able to take anyone that cares to come, and show them to you. The saw-whets will stay put until dark, when they start flying, looking for food.

Don P., Ida Grove, IA. Email: donpoggensee@gmail.com

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 26 NOVEMBER 2024

Adams Homestead

The bald eagle in the treetop was on the trail just up from the visitor center when I started out yesterday for my walk along the River Loop. I almost didn't see the pheasants flying across the field as they blended so well into their surroundings. Felt lucky I got the one image I did.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE SaturDAY, 24 NOVEMBER 2024

I went to Moorehead Park in Ida Grove Saturday 11-23-24. Sioux City Camera Club Members and I met with Don Poggensee to show us where the Saw-Whet Owl was hanging out!! Great experience!!!

Todd W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE thursDAY, 21 november 2024

Gavin’s Point Dam - Lewis & Clark Dam (above dam):

Long-tailed Duck, 2 males, winter plumage with long tail! FOS
Western Grebe, 2
Greater Scaup, 8 (probably many more)

Gavin’s Point Dam - Below Dam

Lesser Black-backed Gull, 1 second winter immature (see photos)
Herring Gull, 3
Bonaparte's Gull, 8
Ring-billed Gull, > 2000
Bald Eagle, 6

Jerry P., and Bill H., South Sioux City, NE and Roger D., Yankton, SD

Broken Kettle Grasslands

I had a juvenile Golden Eagle off 234th St. today (11/21) at Broken Kettle Grasslands. I have also seen an adult and either the same or a different juvenile several times in the past two weeks.

A juvenile American Goshawk has also been seen on and off over the past month with the most recent sighting being earlier this week. It has been seen near the visitor center and along Butcher Road near Joy Hollow Scout Camp.

Tucker L., Broken Kettle Grasslands

Moorehead Park, Ida Grove, IA

I went back yesterday with Jerry M. and Carey A. to capture some more images. There were two there, one adult and one juvenile.

Ron N., Lawton, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 19 november 2024

Here are some shots I took this afternoon in Moorehead Park, Ida Grove.

Ron N., Lawton, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE sunDAY, 17 november 2024

*Northern Saw-whet Owl image copyright 2024 by Don Poggensee, used with permission.*

For the past several week I have been checking on finding our first Northern Saw-whet Owl of this Fall-Winter season. Finally this afternoon I found the first one of this season. Often when I do find the first one, it may not stay since the migration is still on. If I can find it two or more day, there is a good chance it will stay for the winter months.

Here is a photo of the one I found this afternoon

Don P., Ida Grove, IA

Owego Wetlands

It was a "raptorous" day. Many hawks, a couple of eagles and a few song birds. Meadowlarks were racing my vehicle down the one gravel road. I didn't get any shots of them. I photographed the eagles in harsh light.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE thursDAY, 14 november 2024

Owego Wetlands

Late afternoon at Owego. Saw one hunter with a dog in tall grass along one of the gravel roads, which were very greasy. Ugh. But seeing the rising almost full moon and then seeing the setting orb was kind of cool and it wasn't even past my bedtime. SMILE!!!!!

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE friDAY, 8 november 2024

Snyder Bend County Park

Maybe a preview to the next week's outing to local watering holes. Crappy day for light but the action was interesting. Maybe a couple hundred or more pelicans, a number of cormorants and more gulls than I had previously seen. Also a number of ducks that I don't believe were Blue-winged Teals.

Could hear some shooting in the distance but it didn't seem to deter the birds around the water. Many more ducks at the far end looking down from Observation Deck. Interesting that the gulls, cormorants and pelicans were all co-mingling and eating, but on some occasions the pelicans were upset with the cormorants who were coming up with food and so got chased, and the same with the gulls who got too close to an area with the cormorants. No one chased the pelicans.

There were a number of sparrows in and around the tall grass area as one walked toward the observation deck. Difficult to see and photograph as they didn't sit on the top of the grass as they do at Owego.

I walked down a path at the bend in the gravel to the observation deck because I heard a woodpecker that seemed louder than the downy or hairy's. Then I heard this whistle. One high loud long, whistle repeated over and and over again. I looked about trying to see it and finally looked up into a set of trees and it wasn't St. Nick I spied. The person, man, was really hard to see in his camouflage in his tree stand. He pointed at me. I gave him a thumbs up and pointed back toward the deck direction and walked away.

I had seen a pickup truck in the lot and thought maybe it was another birder. Guess not. No idea was hunting season it is.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE friDAY, 1 november 2024

Plymouth County Recent Sightings

November 1 — Broken Kettle Grasslands:

1 "Red-shafted" Northern Flicker, female

October 30 — Broken Kettle Grasslands, 54 species including the following highlights:

American Goshawk, immature
1 Rough-legged Hawk
2 Merlin
1 Great Egret
1 Great Blue Heron
1 Northern Shrike
1 Eastern Screech-Owl
10 species of sparrows including 130 Harris's and 1 Spotted Towhee
940 American Crows!
(Complete list is here: https://ebird.org/checklist/S200839777)

October 29 — Higman Pit south of Akron (PRIVATE, viewed from Hwy 12):

11 Western Cattle-Egret
Bonaparte's, Franklin's, Ring-billed Gulls

October 28 — Joy Hollow Scout Camp:

1 Pileated Woodpecker in valley west of lodge

Tucker L., Broken Kettle Grasslands

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 29 october 2024

A Sioux City Neighborhood

Some early Trick-or-Treaters in a Sioux City Neighborhood. Location withheld at the home owner’s request.

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE sunDAY, 27 october 2024

Owego Wetlands

I was again in Owego Wetland Complex and just happened to see movement in a tree along one of the gravel roads. I stopped, and looked and looked, then saw the immature Red-tailed Hawk drop down to a place in the tall grass in one of the meadow areas which I couldn't see. After a few minutes, it lifted off and flew to another tree, where, once landed it "disappeared" again. Finally leaving that tree and heading over another meadow area.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 23 october 2024

A few photos from rural Thurston County, NE, most along the Missouri River, but some along a gravel road. There must have been a couple hundred American White Pelicans during what almost looked like their own murmuration above the Missouri River as they left one open field and traveled to another.

Also a flock of Rock Doves flying about, one Cooper's Hawk along a gravel road, a Bald Eagle near the Missouri River, European Starlings and Common Grackles along a gravel road eating spilt grain, and American Robins in a bush along the same gravel road eating white berries off some bushes.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE sunDAY, 20 october 2024

Owego Wetlands Complex

So many birds, so little time. Will be glad when hunting season is done.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE thursDAY, 17 october 2024

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

The Square
- LeConte's Sparrow, 2 (image on left, below)
- Also Marsh Wren, 2; Savannah, Swamp and Song Sparrows
Owego Wetlands
- Sharp-shinned Hawk, 1

Crystal Cove, Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024

Hermit Thrush, 1 (image on right, below)
Fox Sparrow, 1 (both center images, below, front and back views)
Also Lincoln's, Song, Swamp, White-crowned, White-throated,and Harris's Sparrows and Daek-eyed Junco.

Jerry P., and Bill H., South Sioux City

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 15 october 2024

Tuesday, October 15, 2024; 320th St., from Indigo Road to Juniper Road, Plymouth County, IA

Winter Wren, 1, First of Season (FOS)
Also Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Harris's and Song Sparrows, Dark-eyed Juncos

Monday, October 14, 2024

The Square, Woodbury County, IA

LeConte's Sparrow, 5
American Bittern, 1
Also Savannah, Swamp, Song Sparrows

Owego Wetlands, Woodbury County, IA

Fox Sparrow, 2
Also Harris's, White-crowned, Swamp and Savannah Sparrows; Orange-crowned and Yellow-rumped Warblers

Jerry P., and Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 12 october 2024

Snyder Bend County Park

Some songbirds at Snyder Bend Lake in the treetops over the observation deck. It really gave one "warbler's neck" trying to follow as they flit about catching some of that fluff.

These are a young Cedar Waxwings along with a first-year female Yellow-rumped Warbler (far right image, below).

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE friDAY, 11 october 2024

Bacon Creek Park

Prairie Park

An exploratory trip to Prairie Park prior to Fall World Migratory Bird Day produced a list of 20 species. Notable sightings include: Nashville Warbler, Palm Warbler, Harris’s Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, and three Spotted Towhee (far right image, below).

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 8 october 2024

Snyder Bend County Park

So this collection of photos were the same day; pelicans in the morning, gull in the evening.

The one set of pics with blurring and some feeding was after the pelicans and cormorants had landed near the grasses or reeds up near the parking lot and were making their way along that little channel eating. A couple of the pelicans can be seen with fish in their mouths, although it was tough capturing and shooting them cleanly enough to really show it easily. And the sun was not yet high enough in the sky to add any color to the scene.

I slowly tried to get in front of them and the cormorants first, then the pelicans, rose up and left and went to the back of the lake area. So the pics of the pelicans with the pink sky and then flying into the sun show them realigning themselves on the lake and picking a new spot to land.

If you get there before the sun comes up, and sit on one of the benches along the shore, the birds won’t pay any attention to you. Just another “ bump on the log” so to speak.

The gull was photographed just as the sun was setting.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 30 september 2024

Snyder Bend County Park

Some photos taken on two different days, all around sunset. The first evening a number of pelicans were flying back to the lake and around it before settling down. The next night there was little activity. Could hear a number of herons across the water in the tall grasses and reeds but couldn't see them from where I was sitting on one of the benches. There were four juvenile bald eagles perching in trees just beyond the water.

A number of geese and pelicans were in the water behind the stand of grass and reeds facing the parking lot shore line. The lone heron sitting in the treetop forced the eagle to relocate. I enjoyed watching the eagle eyeball the pelicans fly by its perch. Guess all creatures just enjoy a moment or two in nature seeing what goes by.

The sun sets pretty fast which does not give me a lot of time to change positions if the birds move, which they did the second evening. Didn't quite get that richness of color.

But it was good to shoot something a little different and add a little natural color into the mix.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 28 september 2024

DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge

A photographer friend and I visited on Saturday and didn't find many birds. Heard a couple of Northern Flickers, saw just a few Canada geese. Merlin Sound ID picked up American Goldfinch.

However, we saw plenty of Great Blue Herons. Carey got a nice photo of a Great Blue eating a small fish in the pond where I have it standing in sunlight (below, right).

It was kind of strange not to see any birds, none, on the water around the visitor's center. Zero, zip, nada.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE friDAY, 27 september 2024

A trip to Kramper Lake near Hubbard, NE produced a list of 21 species. The morning was cool with a slight breeze. Notable sightings were a Lesser Yellowlegs, a Cooper’s Hawk (two images on far right, below) and four Great Blue Herons who seemingly divided the lake according to the four compass points, each staking claim on the corresponding North, South, East, and West sections of the lake.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 23 september 2024

Snyder Bend County Park

Lots of activity on Monday! Pelicans, herons, northern flicker, european starlings, juvenile bald eagle, american goldfinch, juvenile blue-winged teal, cormorants, a juvenile house finch and a robin.

The starlings kept going to the same tree as the robins and the robins kept leaving. Witnessed, but wasn't in position to photograph, some starling murmurations. Creating a ball in the sky then leaving for shore and the tree tops.

There were other small sparrows and songbirds but too hidden. I found that a "hiking trail" that is state land and open to hunting had a cut grass path and there were tons of songbirds flitting about the trees there, that sits back from the backend of the lake area.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE thursDAY, 19 september 2024

I had a Say's Phoebe at Broken Kettle Grasslands in Plymouth County this afternoon (the third sighting this year!). The bird is hanging out in the bison corral on 234th St. It has mostly been flycatching from fence posts on the east side of the corral. The bird is easily visible from the road. Please do not attempt to enter the bison corral. I also saw a Swainson's Hawk at the corral today and an American Goshawk was there yesterday.

An immature Red-shouldered Hawk was at Joy Hollow Scout Camp today as well and is likely the same individual I have seen at Broken Kettle Grasslands over the past few weeks. Please note Joy Hollow is closed to the public from 4:00 PM this Saturday through Sunday. If you plan on birding at the scout camp you can call the Broken Kettle Grasslands office to check the schedule as the girl scouts still use the facilities.

Tucker L., Broken Kettle Grasslands

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 18 september 2024

Broken Kettle Grasslands

I have had a few good sightings in the past two days at Broken Kettle Grasslands. On September 18 I saw a juvenile American Goshawk (note recent name change from Northern Goshawk) and several Sharp-shinned Hawks flying by the bison corral on 234th St.

On September 17 I had a Bay-breasted Warbler, a Blue-headed Vireo, and several Nashville and Tennessee Warblers in the interior of the preserve. A couple of Merlins have also made their way through the preserve this week.

A few weeks ago I saw a juvenile Red-shouldered Hawk in the interior of the preserve so keep a look out if you are driving Butcher Road, particularly looking west from the benches at the Aalfs overlook.

Tucker L., Broken Kettle Grasslands

Sioux City Neighbors

Some photos from a Sioux City backyard.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 11 september 2024

First Merlin of the Fall was seen harassing migrating flocks of Blue Jays and Northern Flickers. Each of the migrating flocks was loafing in a large dead cottonwood and surrounding trees when my first Merlin of the season powered toward the flocks scattering them in all directions. It made several more unsuccessful passes, then perched in the same tree. This was the opportunity for the massed Jays and Flickers to counterattack and drive the falcon back into the air, where it usually had the upper hand, but was never seen to strike any of the Jays or Flickers.

Other highlights:

Turkey Vultures - 23 sunbathing on the swimming beach
Green Heron - 2
Great Blue Heron - 3
Belted Kingfisher - 1

The trip also showed how many of the native cattails have been replaced by the invasive Pfragmites grass. Has this reduced our native marsh bird species?

Bill H., (by kayak), South Sioux City, NE

Plymouth County

Photographed this Cooper’s through the window last evening (9/11/24).

Jon N., and Leesa M., Plymouth County, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 10 september 2024

Bacon Creek

A walk around the trails at Bacon Creek after the morning thundershower revealed a list of 29 species. There was a significant amount of bird activity around the spillway from the pond on private property to the Bacon Creek property. Notable sightings included a Green Heron (image on left, below), Brown Thrasher, Swainson’s Thrush (with Merlin Sound ID assistance, see photos below), and a Palm Warbler.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

Swift Watch - Vermillion, SD

The "swift" watch was interesting! Seven of us met to socialize, discuss what the future of a swift watch could look like in Vermillion, and to check out the roost on Main Street. By last night (9/10/24), the roost had plummeted to a mere 17 Chimney Swifts, down from at least 200 just a couple of weeks ago. We had fun observing other species and their evening commutes.

Turkey Vultures passed over first, around half an hour before sunset, cruising southeast, each one separated from the next by a few minutes, but following the same aerial path. One of them, possibly injured, held a leg rigid in the air below its body. After the TUVUs passed, Common Nighthawks began heading east in groups, not vocalizing as they would during their hunt - we figured they were going to an area of high insect concentration. Robins came next, right about sunset, also heading southeast. They came in small flocks, but one could imagine their roost would be a good size, judging by the large number of parties. Among them I spotted what appeared to be an American Goldfinch (that flight pattern is pretty distinct) - and finally, our first Chimney Swift of the night. Other swifts arrived in the company of nighthawks, and eventually, they each dropped into the chimney to find their spots in the roost.

From our watch/brainstorming session, I had a few key takeaways about future planning:

If we want to generate public excitement, the swift watch simply can't happen just one evening, or we might have a repeat of this year which would disappoint folks who were hoping for a dramatic show. A minimum of a weekly event would be better.
Whatever we plan needs to be self-perpetuating, with heavy involvement from long-term locals, not just University students such as myself.
It will be imperative to use social media for advertising.
Swift maps! This is a fun idea that's in my head now. Yankton has a significantly bigger roost than anywhere I now of in Vermillion, and one of the other buildings in Vermillion has a reportedly larger roost than the one on Main. From a conservation perspective, many roosts is better than one; a showcase of various local roosts would present an excellent public education opportunity. I'm imagining a "Got swifts in your chimney? Want them on our map?" outreach campaign to lead up to the events. This would also be a way to show off alternatives to chimneys, such as free-standing towers and home additions designed with swifts in mind.
Partnerships with local businesses and nonprofits will be an important way to spread the word and grow community enthusiasm.

If anyone has input/advice or wants to be involved in planning next year's swift watch, they can email me. We have all year to make it awesome!

Jillian M., Vermillion, SD

Snyder Bend County Park

Made a trip out to Snyder Bend Tuesday afternoon. Wanted to check out a lens I just received and just get outside.

After I drove into the parking lot I saw the heron down along the shoreline. It must be getting used to cars because this time it didn't fly away. Grabbed my camera and shot from the car. After making its way along the shore a bit, I got out and it still didn't fly away and so I took a few more pics of it looking for a meal at the water's edge.

Down toward the observation deck I spooked a heron that must have been in a tree near it, although it didn't take flight when some other ducks did moments earlier. Also saw some cormorants out on the water along with what I think were wood ducks.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 9 september 2024

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

A morning bicycle ride around the trails at Adams produced a list of 19 species. Notable sightings include an immature Bald Eagle, 4 Common Nighthawk, and a Merlin harassing and, in turn, being harassed by six Blue Jays.

Randy W. Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 7 september 2024

Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center

I took a walk late yesterday afternoon at DPNC. I was so distracted by the stunning grasses and wildflowers on the road to the Nature Center, that I almost forgot I was there to look up for birds! The highlights include watching a metallic green bee, a Great Spangled Fritillary Butterfly and a very cooperative Yellow-billed Cuckoo.

Marla K., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE friDAY, 6 september 2024

Near the Big Sioux/Jefferson Bridge.

Jon N., and Leesa M., Plymouth County, IA

*Image copyright 2024 by Jon Nylen, used with permission.*

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE sunDAY, 1 september 2024

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

A morning bicycle ride around the trails at Adams Homestead revealed 32 species. Most notable sightings include: Great Horned Owl, Great Crested Flycatcher, Western Kingbird, a garter snake taking a dust bath, and an estimated 100 American White Pelicans spiraling into a wet area just east of the River Trail.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

Adams Homestead Pelicans, Day 3

Lighting was a little different today for this group of pelicans still in the backwater ares of the preserve.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

Lewis & Clark State Park

*Nashville Warbler copyright 2024 by Jerry L. Mennenga, used with permission.*

Couple of photos of a Nashville Warbler. One was taken in a sunflower field at the Lewis and Clark State Park near Onawa. The other walking along the trail just past where the one "road", track, goes down into the meadow area and connects with the walking trail headed to the Cottowood grove.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturday, 31 AUGUST 2024

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

Day 2 of photographing the pelicans and herons in that backwater area of the preserve. The light was different, a little challenging, but presents its own unique look.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE Friday, 30 AUGUST 2024

I made a 3-day visit to Adams after Jody M. told me about a backwater area that borders the park. I didn't realize that area back there was part of the park. Always thought it belonged to a farm, and of course it does, the Adams Homestead farm. DUH!!!

This is day one of my three visits. Am going to break up the photos I send so you see some progression. I made my way down to the area which actually has the water in a field just over the fence line to Adams proper, or so it looks. I went maybe mid-morning the first day. I stayed in the shade of a tree line that borders an open meadow area leading up to the fence line and backwater area where the birds were. Thought maybe being in the shade the birds wouldn't notice me as much.

There were also a number of ducks swimming about as well if one looks close at some of the pelican shots.

And then also a pic of a turkey vulture airing out its wings on a damp, dewy morning, as were some barn swallows on a power line.

In the one pic of the pelicans taking flight is when I first saw what I thought were snowy egrets in the background, only later did I realize they might be a white form of Great Blue Herons.

Jerry M., Sioux City, Iowa

https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE sunDAY, 25 AUGUST 2024

Monona County

I took these pictures from the window.

Sharon P., Monona County, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 24 AUGUST 2024

Sux Sod Farm, Dakota County, NE

Buff-breasted Sandpipers, 14 foraging on cultivated sod, then took flight and probably did not return.

Stone State Park, Woodbury, IA Sat., Aug. 24, 2024

Ruby-throated Hummingbird, 3
Eastern Wood-Pewee, many
Olive-sided Flycatcher, 1-2 First of Season (FOS)
Yellow-throated Vireo, 2
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher, 3
Nashville Warbler, 1
Blackburnian Warbler, 1 immature female
Wilson's Warbler, 1
Ovenbird, 1
American Redstart, 2
Yellow Warbler, 1 immature female

Jerry P., and Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

Dakota Dunes, SD

On my roof top looking for prey likely. Just fed my fish in my pond.

Pam S., Dakota Dunes, SD.

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE ThursDAY, 22 august 2024

Union Grove S.P., Union County, SD Bird Highlights

Black-throated Green Warbler, 2, immature female and adult female
Bay-breasted Warbler, 1 immature female
Tennessee Warbler, 1 immature
Black & White Warbler, female
Nashville Warbler, 1
Blackburnian Warbler, 2 immature females
Scarlet Tanager, 1 female

Jerry P., and Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 21 august 2024

Snyder Bend County Park

The first of a few of the pics taken recently at Snyder Bend. This heron was way down the shoreline then making its way up to me, Carey, and Cathy, stopping for a snack and then proceeding in walking around behind us as we sat on a bench and captured images. The bird then continued down the shoreline still looking for a snack.

It was pretty awesome to see it come within 6-9 feet of us.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 5 august 2024

Bacon Creek

Roger D. of Yankton, SD paid a visit to Bacon Creek in the hopes of finding the previously reported River Otters. No luck with the otters but he produced a list of 32 species. Notable sightings were 3 Green Heron, 2 Great Blue Heron, and 3 Belted Kingfishers along with other typical summer birds.

Roger D., Yankton, SD as reported to Randy W.

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE friDAY, 2 august 2024

Spirit Mound Historic Prairie

This visit was in early August. Not much luck in the way of birds. Saw a heron do a fly by and a dickcissel singing from weed/plant stem. Otherwise the most abundant "wildlife" I saw were bees and butterflies. I was hopeful sometime I might find a songbird feedings on a cone flower or sunflower.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE thursDAY, 1 august 2024

Bacon Creek

A morning walk around the lake produced 29 species. All were typical of the season. The big surprise was finding four River Otters. I had never seen wild otters before. I was on a small peninsula on the west side of the lake. I saw movement across the small inlet and first thought they were resident beaver. However, they swam towards me, not away from me, and then began to bob upright in the water. That’s when I realized they were otters. They swam across the inlet and got within about 10-yards of my position, then swam off towards the middle of the lake.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 31 JULY 2024

Owego Wetlands

I have been driving about Owego Wetland Complex and it's beginning to become a favorite haunt of mine. I never go looking for anything or bird in particular but know in some of the meadow areas I will find birds "posing" on grass or weed stems along the roadway.

I spent about an hour or so driving about shooting and was about to pack it in. There are some settings on my camera that I don't often use so thought I would see how they work. One being something Olympus calls "Pro Capture". The camera allows a photographer to press the shutter and it begins buffering so many "pre exposure" images until the shutter is completely depressed and then records those images as well as ones that follow. The user can set how many pre and after exposures or images that camera may take.

I had been watching a Tree Swallow flit about a particular area, landing on a weed stem then taking off again. I would photograph its perch while another flew by in the background. It flew to another stem and I set the camera program and waited for it to take off hoping to catch its wings in different positions. It lifted off and I was ready to follow focus when to my surprise it flew straight up. Then I noticed the Dickcissel coming up from below to sit on a stem below where the Swallow had perched. After the Swallow left, the Dickcessel perches itself onto the top weed stem.I guess it was calling dibs. The Swallow never came back but flew to another stem and the Dickcissel began singing. It seemed rather "operatic" to me.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA

https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 29 JULY 2024

Tucker Lutter has located a Little Blue Heron west of IA Hwy-12 south of Akron. The bird is an immature and all white.

Look west at the intersection of Hwy-12 and Birch Ave in flood water behind a small private campground and small, former gravel pit.

Paul Roisen provided these lat-long coordinates: 42.78803, -96.58896.

Tucker’s pin for the Little Blue Heron: https://maps.app.goo.gl/CDLxt1jaVeQMkUzK8

This area is south of the River's Bend Wildlife Area and campground.

Bill H., Hotline editor

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 27 JULY 2024

*Image copyright 2024 by Jerry L. Mennenga, used with permission.*

Went to the Winnebago Homecoming Celebration (pow wow) this weekend. And while in the stands shooting activity in the circle below, I noticed barn swallows flying about. A lot of them, all over the place.

There are US flags flying from most support posts for "stadium" seating for the circle at Veterans Park. All of the flags flying are from tribal member families who had a loved one that served in some armed service branch for the US.

A couple of barn swallows ended up perching on some of the tie ropes that holds the flags in place. And one little guy just stayed there, taking in the activity, drumming and singing.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA

https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE friDAY, 26 JULY 2024

Snyder Bend Lake, Woodbury County, IA; Thurston and Dakota Counties, NE:

Bird Highlights:

Pileated Woodpecker, 3 together in a dead cottonwood
Osprey, 1-2
Yellow-billed Cuckoo, 1
Great Blue Heron, probably more than 50, ubiquitous
Great Egret, 1
Green Heron, 2

The June floods raised the Missouri River to a level where it flowed through this remnant oxbow lake and replenished the water that was in short supply during the drought years. It currently is four feet above 'typical' levels which allows one to kayak or canoe well beyond the typical shoreline and explore flooded marshes, brushlands and thickets. Water quality appears good and the water quite clear.

The boat launch has been closed since the flood and I may have been the first to explore this wonderland. From the dam on the lower end (east) to the upper end at the power plant (west), I encountered no other people. The power plant is still supplying water, so water levels may be high for some time.

Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE thursDAY, 25 JULY 2024

*Image copyright 2024 by William F. Huser, used with permission.*

On Thursday, July 25, I kayaked to the extreme west side of Brown's Lake (Woodbury County, IA) to look for marsh birds. Water levels were good (the power plant still supplying water), and I was able to progress to the west part of this nearly circular oxbow lake.

There I did flush one Least Bittern, but did not see or hear many other marsh residents, other than Great Blue Herons, Common Yellowthroats, Belted Kingfishers and Wood Ducks.

This portion of the lake has changed much over the years. I remember finding several Least Bitterns there in the 1970's and 1980's by canoe when the area was entirely cattails. Jerry Probst and I also found, on one occasion, a Common Moorhen/Gallinule there in those days. Since that time much of the area was overtaken by invasive water lillies, which probably greatly reduced the nesting species that make their nests of cattails.

More recently, the European invasive Phragmites sp. has crowded out both cattails and lillies in some areas. Presumably, this also limits native species of birds that have evolved with cattails and may not be able to use Phragmites in the same ways.

Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 23 JULY 2024

*Image copyright 2024 by Randall D. Williams, used with permission.*

Adams Homestead

An early morning bike ride around the trails at Adams Homestead with some fog/smoke/haze revealed 32 species. Most notable was listening to a conversation among three Eastern Whip-poor-wills where the power lines intersect with Cottonwood Crossing.

On the west shore of Mud Lake, a little south of the new Mud Lake interpretive sign, I also unintentionally eavesdropped on a conversation between two Sora. Both were calling kerweee, one closer to my spot on the trail than the other. It was a good conversation where one responded as soon as the other finished.

I also heard a Vesper Sparrow singing on the southeast edge of the River Loop where the trail runs adjacent to private property.

No Bell’s Vireo today in spite of finding my first one of 2024 along the River Loop trail a little north of the structures on the bank of the Missouri River on Monday, 7/15/24. A Blue Grosbeak was also singing in that area.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

Snyder Bend

An ambitious female oriole hunting for a meal on a dead tree limb.

A Great Blue Heron took off and headed for an area hidden by reeds.

Then evening and day shots of a Killdeer. I liked the fading light but it doesn't do much for the bird. The daylight reflections are decent though. Although it took a while for it to come back and look for food as I wasn't able to get too close with a long lens and tele converter in play.

Finally, a nice Canadian goose, who unlike its earlier counterparts, didn't land with its back to me but circled and landed facing me. A nice bird indeed.

And finally a couple of artsy shots from Snyder. The flood water isolated some plants along the edge near the sidewalk and creates a kind of high key look/reflection.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 10 JULY 2024

Owego Wetlands

The last time I checked on the eagles out at Owego at the nesting tree I didn't see any activity. I think that was late May or early June.

I ventured down a road I hadn't checked out before that dead ends on the backside of the eagle nesting tree in the field. To my surprise, these two adults were sitting and sharing a branch. The eagle on the right was out closer to the edge of the long branch then moved in closer to be nearer its mate. Maybe they saw me.

It was a hazy day and lousy light, although it was only around 8:30-9:00 AM. when I was out at the complex.

And a few more images of the usual suspects (Dickcissel and Eastern Kingbird). They pose so nicely and I can get a decent background to make them standout when photographing there, I just can't resist.

And I don't understand it, but towards the end of my driving about, I always find a goldfinch but see it too late to stop and get a photo without it taking off. Shining like a pot of gold in the sunlight against the green plants. They are such teasers.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE SunDAY, 7 JULY 2024

I made a trip to Adams Homestead Sunday around noon or thereafter. Too late for better bird watching although I did find some critters. And of course, walking further back on the River Loop trail pass the meadow area and where the corn field starts the mosquitoes found me. If I stopped to look for birds or shoot them, they swarmed. And I had sprayed bug repellent on me before walking.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
https://lostinsiouxland.wordpress.com/ or https://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.com/

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE SaturDAY, 6 JULY 2024

Cone Park

Cone Park is not just for bicyclists! There are walking trails that go through the park. But mountain bikers and hikers need to be sure they are on the correct trails. The trails are marked.

I have made four visits to the cross-country mountain bike trails at Cone Park. Each time I’ve explored a little more where my skill level permits. Although I have not yet run an eBird list, I have seen or heard quite a few along my route. My list includes: Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Eastern Towhee, Red-eyed Vireo, Downy Woodpecker, Red-headed Woodpecker, Rose-breasted Grosbeak, Western Kingbird, Eastern Kingbird, Red-tailed Hawk, Turkey Vulture, Wild Turkey, Northern Cardinal, Blue Jay, Yellow Warbler, Warbling Vireo, White-breasted Nuthatch, Orchard and Baltimore Orioles, and more, I’m sure.

Below, are a few images from my rides along the cross-country mountain bike trails.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 2 JUly 2024

Bacon Creek

A morning walk around Bacon Creek revealed 34 species, all typical for this time of year. Highlights (to me) included Blue-gray Gnatcatcher and a stalking Great Blue Heron.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE SunDAY, 30 JUNE 2024

Here are pictures of a Cooper’s Hawk (top row images) seeking refuge in the treetops in my backyard. Four or five crows were chasing it and settled into the tree branches surrounding the hawk. The hawk kept jumping to different branches, in photo it is looking directly up, watching one of the aggressive crows. The hawk kept calling out and I could hear another hawk responding. The other hawk settled into a tree in a neighbor's yard, but eventually settled onto a branch in my backyard and finally they both left.

Safety in numbers I guess, but the crows followed them when they left and I could hear the crows up to 2-3 blocks away. Funny, it seemed the second hawk the crows were not so interested in as they were the first hawk that landed.

My friend, Carey, and I went to Snyder Bend last week and this little guy (Eastern Wood-Pewee, bottom row images) caught a bug and then flew about looking for more and landing nearby. We could not get out to the observation deck at Snyder Bend as brackish water covered the trail in a low lying area.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA http://www.lostinsiouxland.com and Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 25 june 2024

Cedar Waxwing (left) and Willow Flycatcher (right) - both taken at Snyder Bend Park

Jon N., Plymouth County, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 17 june 2024

This bird was feeding on some birdseed scattered about on the ground in our backyard in southern Plymouth County. I believe it is a fledgling Western Meadowlark. Please feel free to correct me if I am in error.

Jon N., Plymouth County, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE sunDAY, 16 june 2024

Leesa and I went on a bike ride with our electric bike at Adam’s on Father's Day. About 9:30 am we were on the west side of Adam’s just adjacent to Wystone Development. I was ahead of Leesa by about 25 feet. I clearly saw a pileated woodpecker in flight no more than 30 feet flying underneath the cottonwoods. Leesa and I had microphones in our helmets for communication. I said to Leesa, “Did you just see that pileated fly by?” She replied that she did and we visited about that for the next 10 minutes. We discussed what she saw and compared with what I saw and we both had concurrence with what the two of us saw. This would be the first time for us that we had seen a pileated in Adam’s. Saw the red crest, black underneath with the exception of the white leading feathers of the wings that extended almost to the wing tips.

NOTE: Scroll down to 28 April 2024 for Pileated Woodpecker photos from Stone Park by Jon and Leesa.

In addition to the pileated we saw approximately 10-15 Red-headed woodpeckers, 12 Brown thrashers, over 20 American Robins and 1 Yellow Warbler.

Jon N., and Leesa M., Plymouth County, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 12 june 2024

Little Sioux Park, Correctionville, IA

A morning walk along Union Bridge Trail from Little Sioux Park to Correctionville and back produced a list of 44 species, all typical for our location and time of year. Notables (to me) include: Spotted Sandpiper, Ruby-throated Hummingbird, and Eastern Phoebe. The highlight was finding two eaglets at the Bald Eagle nest along the trail. One was perched to the side of the nest and exercising its wings in the breeze, the other was either in or on the nest as I walked past.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 10 june 2024

We also have had regular visits of Indigo Buntings to our place here on the Missouri River. Was able to get many shots of both the male and female to share if you would like to.

Mark H., along the wide Missouri

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE sunDAY, 9 june 2024

Owego Wetlands Complex

I didn't get to Owego until 8:30 AM or so and I knew the lighting was going to suck a bit this time of year even "that early in the morning". But I photographed anyway. It was a bit harsh for some of the images.

I felt bad for the one meadowlark (top row, left) I came across as it looks like it's missing part of its top beak. Wondering how that affects its feeding.

Saw Mark H. who was driving about with his grandson, who will be doing a research project in that area comparing cut and uncut fields and how that relates to the bird population. I believe that is the gist of his project.

The dickcissels put on quite a show singing their hearts out (top row, middle and right) while other birds were "buried" (bottom row, left) back within some trees and shrubs making me work a bit to get a clear shot. Towards the end of my time which was around 10:00 AM the birds kind of stayed put along the roadway which is how I got most of the images shooting from inside the car.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA http://www.lostinsiouxland.com and Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 8 june 2024

Female Indigo Bunting in our garden gathering nesting material.

Jon N. and Leesa M., Southern Plymouth County

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 5 june 2024

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

A morning bicycle ride around the trails produced 43 species of birds all typical for this area. Notable highlights were 1 singing Eastern Whip-poor-will, 8 seen and heard Eastern Meadowlarks and 9 seen and heard Dickcissels.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE friDAY, 31 may 2024

A visual summary of May birding adventures with Jan N. and Jerry V.

Top Row Images:

Canada Goose — Going out on a limb!
Green Heron — My limb is smaller!!
American Goldfinch — State Bird of Iowa showing its Gold.
Brown Thrasher — Just resting.
Western Kingbird — Looking for lunch.

Bottom Row Images:

Western Kingbird — I think I see something!
Scarlet Tanager — Always great to see!
Black Tern — Searching the marsh.
Common Yellowthroat — I like to hide.
Eastern Bluebird — Come and join us!

Videos:

Kind of windy today! — Common Yellowthroat
Watch us swim mom! — Wood Duck Family

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE thursDAY, 30 may 2024

*Mourning Dove (left) and Eurasian Collared-Dove (right) by Jon Nylen, copyright 2024, used with permission.*

Mourning Dove and Eurasian Collared-Dove taken in Southwestern Plymouth County, 4 miles ENE of Jefferson, SD

*Brown Thrasher image copyright 2024 by Jon Nylen, used with permission.*

Brown Thrasher (above) taken 4 miles ENE of Jefferson, SD, southern Plymouth County, Iowa

Killdeer photos (above) taken in Little Sioux Park, RR Correctionville, IA.

Jon N., Plymouth County, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 29 may 2024

Carey A. and I went on a road trip Wednesday. Our original destination of Niobrara, NE kind of turned into a bust. We were hoping for more cloud play with lights and darks, which seemed to come later.

After driving highway 12 and stopping for a couple of scenics we headed to Yankton and swung by Gavins Point Dam and lucked out. Tons of American White Pelicans. Ran into Roger D. who estimated roughly 400 of them hanging around the spillway. They would ride the water out then take off and fly back in to repeat the action.

Sadly some fishermen kept encroaching on where the pelicans were, trying to hook the fish the pelicans were after and, whether intentional or not, would chase them away. Luckily the pelicans returned.

Roger, by the way, gives a shout out to Bill and Jerry. He was enjoying his new Canon lens, a 200-800 RF lens. He also acquired some new crazy fast CF cards and on one single shoot had captured 11,000 images. I hate editing the 1,300 images which I shot of the pelicans.

It was fun just watching the birds fly about, take off, land again and so close to the Nebraska side it made it easier to photograph them. At least the day didn't turn out to be a bust finding the pelicans as the landscape/scenic expectations did.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 27 may 2024

I went back to Correctionville Monday to photograph the community's Memorial Day parade which was at 10:00 AM. It was a nice parade and I will post on my blog later.

I got there a little after 8:00 AM so I went to check the eagle's nest. Got a few better photos of an adult watching over the nest. I encountered one jogger, a family of three riding bikes and a couple and their stroller while on the trail. It was not very busy around the parking area at all. The adult made "softer" alarm sounds about people walking by the nest than during previous visits. Didn't see the eaglet's head above the rim at any time. Maybe it was nap time after an early breakfast.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 25 may 2024

Adams Homestead

A morning bicycle ride around the trails revealed 36 species. I noted one Eastern Whip-poor-will. Winds, however, were from the south at 14 to 24 mph which affected by ability to detect birdsong as well as the capabilities of Merlin Sound ID. One Spotted Towhee continues singing on the preserve. I have not yet detected any Bell’s Vireos.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

From Left: Waning gibbous moon; sunrise; Bird On a Bat Box (Eastern Meadowlark)

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE thursDAY, 23 may 2024

Owego Wetlands Complex

A series of portraits from my trip to Owego Thursday. The birds were somewhat cooperative. There is a series of the female Red-winged Blackbird. Wind was gusting out there Thursday and the small twig of the bush broke and the bird had to do some aerobatics to regain balance and land on another twig.

The Great Blue Heron was a bit bashful. When it heard me driving along the gravel road it bolted, but I had enough time to get off a few frames, which thankfully, a couple were in focus.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA, http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 22 may 2024

A friend and fellow photographer and I visited Correctionville this week and the eaglet was being quite shy and coy, staying behind some foliage and nest "twigs" so that his head was barely visible. However one of the parents flew overhead and made its presence and concern noted. We kept walking along the trail then turned and returned and the parent stopped making overhead passes.

The inquisitive Baltimore Oriole who was hanging out around the bridge. Then, the Eastern Kingbird was in a meadow area not far from the bridge also. Lastly, a Common Grackle posed so nicely within the beams of the bridge I thought it made for an interesting composition.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE sunDAY, 19 may 2024

We’ve had a Tanager visit our feeder 6 days in a row. This photo was taken on the 5th day, May 19th.

Jon N. and Leesa M., Plymouth County, IA

*Baltimore Oriole (left) and Scarlet Tanager (right) image copyright 2024 by Jon Nylen, used with permission.*

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE thursDAY, 16 may 2024

Deer Creek WMA, Plymouth County, IA

I had a singing Henslow's Sparrow at Deer Creek WMA around 11 am today. The approximate location is at this pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/We6vVtFeK4wihu1o9

NOTE: only the second Henslows record locally, to my knowledge. — Bill Huser, editor

Tucker L., Plymouth County, IA

K Ave, north of NE-35, Dakota County, NE

In a new wet area, possibly due to a tile system malfunction, near the roadside, 0.25 miles north of NE-35, many showy shorebirds:

Ruddy Turnstone, 4 in alternate plumage
Black-bellied Plover , 4 alternate
American Avocet, 29 alt.
Dunlin, 32 alt.
Hudsonian Godwit, 9
White-rumped Sandpiper, >10
Semi-palmated Sandpiper, >4
Franklin Gull, 30

Kathy P., Sioux City and Bill H., South Sioux City

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 14 may 2024

Plymouth County, IA

Scarlet Tanager at our bird feeder today and a late image of a Spotted Sandpiper photographed at Bacon Creek on 5/8/24.

Jon N., Plymouth County, IA

Sioux City Neighborhood

There is an active Yellow-bellied Sapsucker nest in our neighborhood.

Rex R., Sioux City, IA

Little Sioux Park

A morning walk along the Union Bridge Trail between Little Sioux Park and Correctionville revealed 44 species. There were no real surprises for species. It was nice to see and photograph a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker and an Eastern Phoebe. Most notable was the presence of one eaglet within the nest. On my way to Correctionville I one adult flew over carrying something in its bill. I found the eaglet in the nest but no evidence of the adult birds. On my return to the park I found the two adults, one on the park-side of the nest, the other on the Correctionville-side, but no evidence of the eaglet.

Randy W. Sioux City, IA

Top Row, from left: Very high Little Sioux River from Union Bridge; Yellow-bellied Sapsucker; Eaglet

Bottom Row, from left: Adult Bald Eagle; Eastern Phoebe; Rose-breasted Grosbeak

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 13 may 2024

Building Better Birders

Hillview Recreation Area hosted Kelly McKay for Iowa’s Building Better Birders program. This session featured the warblers of Iowa and was attended by five birders wishing to improve their warbler skills. This included Marla and Kevin K., and Randy W. of Loess Hills Audubon.

The morning was spent following the walking trails at Hillview Park from about 6:15 AM to 11:45 AM. A total of 86 species were identified by the group. Notable sightings include: Ruby-throated Hummingbird, Great Egret, Broad-winged Hawk, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Yellow-bellied Flycatcher, Blue-headed Vireo, Veery, Wood Thrush, Worm-eating Warbler, Nashville Warbler, Northern Parula, Wilson’s Warbler, Summer Tanager, and Scarlet Tanager.

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 11 may 2024

Ponca State Park

West of Shooters' Valley

Lazuli Bunting, 1 male

On sandbars out from the Park's Kayak launch

Sanderling, 3
Dunlin, 2
Piping Plover, 5
Least Tern, 1
other shorebirds

On Sandbars NE of the Backwater trailhead

Ruddy Turnstone, 1
Piping Plover, 3
Least Tern, 1
other shorebirds

Observers: Camo Birder (anonymous); Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 8 may 2024

Morningside neighborhood, Sioux City, IA

Some recent guests passing through the area that stopped by. I was really surprised at some of my visitors. My neck hurt a bit after trying to follow the little warblers flitting about the tree limbs up high. I was also surprised to see the Rose-breasted Grosbeak visit my backyard.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA.
http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

Top Row: All Black-and-white Warbler

Middle Row: Blue Jay (left and middle), Rose-breasted Grosbeak (right)

Bottom Row: Ruby-crowned Kinglet (left), Nashville Warbler (middle and right)

K Avenue grasslands

4 Sora
7 American Golden-Plover
5 Semipalmated Plover
55 Hudsonian Godwit -- Large group counted most showed white on tail and wing in flight
2 Marbled Godwit
22 Wilson's Phalarope
5 Spotted Sandpiper
1 Solitary Sandpiper
4 Lesser Yellowlegs
2 Willet
1 Greater Yellowlegs
2 Stilt Sandpiper
2 Buff-breasted Sandpiper -- Small head dark eye in grass dark thin bill
2 Dunlin
2 White-rumped Sandpiper
50 Least Sandpiper
6 Pectoral Sandpiper
4 Semipalmated Sandpiper
10 Western Cattle Egret
1 Bald Eagle
1 Grasshopper Sparrow

Jerry P., South Sioux City, NE

Southwood Conservation Area

The light play the day my friend Carey and I visited the Southwood Conservation Area near Smithland was pretty sweet. Maybe as good as the few birds we found there as well. There were some warblers, but they made it difficult to photograph them, hiding amongst the tree branches and such.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 7 may 2024

Stone Park

While hiking through Stone Park today we captured the following photographs (below image gallery from left to right):

Red-eyed vireo
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Great Blue Heron
House Wren

We also captured audio via Merlin of the following:

Baltimore Oriole
American Robin
White-breasted Nuthatch
Osprey
American Goldfinch
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Indigo Bunting
Canada Goose
Red-winged Blackbird
Northern Cardinal
Common Yellowthroat
Red-breasted Nuthatch
Black-headed Grosbeak
American Crow
Black-capped Chickadee
Eastern Towhee
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Hairy Woodpecker

Jon saw an Osprey fly overhead near Turtle Lake. While near Turtle Lake, Leesa picked up a Rose-breasted Grosbeak audio track on Merlin and within 10 seconds a "flock" of approximately 30 grosbeaks flew over us into the trees on the north side of Turtle Lake. We had never seen that many grosbeaks congregated together. A first.

Also, two good birds that were life birds for us from an audio perspective were the Black-headed Grosbeak and the Red-breasted Nuthatch.

Jon N., and Leesa M., Plymouth County, IA

A morning walk in Stone Park’s Pammel Valley revealed 32 species. Notable sightings include: Osprey; Olive-sided (second image from left, below) and Great Crested Flycatcher; Yellow-throated and Red-eyed Vireo; Blue-gray Gnatcatcher (two images on right, below); and Louisiana Waterthrush.

Randy W. Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 6 may 2024

Bacon Creek

A morning walk around the trails at Bacon Creek Park revealed 35 species. Notable sightings include: Yellow-throated Vireo, Swainson’s Thrush, Tennessee Warbler, American Redstart, and a singing Wood Thrush.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE sunDAY, 5 may 2024

Southern Plymouth County Bird feeders

14 Baltimore Orioles
8 Brown-headed Cowbirds
2 Rose-breasted Grosbeaks
12 Bluejays
1 Scarlet Tanager
2 Red-headed Woodpeckers
4 Red-bellied Woodpeckers
1 Chipping Sparrow
7 House Sparrows
6 Wild Turkeys
5 Turkey Vultures
2 Eastern Kingbird

Snyder Bend Park

We walked approximately 2 miles south of the park. We saw the following and Merlin detected the remainder on sound alone.

24 Red-winged Blackbirds
8 Red-headed Woodpeckers
6 Brown-headed Cowbirds
4 American Robins
13 House Wrens
3 American Goldfinches
2 Brown Thrashers
2 Canadian Geese
2 Eastern Kingbird
1 Northern Harrier (top row, left)
Warbling Vireo (top row, middle)
Least Flycatcher (top row, right)
Palm Warbler (bottom row, left)
White-crowned Sparrow (bottom row, middle)
Belted Kingfisher (bottom row, right)

In addition, Merlin audio detected the following species

Yellow Warbler
American Redstart
White-throated Sparrow
Northern Cardinal
Tree Swallow
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Field Sparrow
Ring-necked Pheasant
House Sparrow
Northern Flicker
Yellow-rumped Warbler
Hairy Woodpecker
Ovenbird
Red-bellied Woodpecker
European Starling
Blue Jay
Nashville Warbler
Gray Catbird

Jon N., and Leesa M., Plymouth County, IA

Adams Homestead

An early morning bicycle ride around the figure 8 trails revealed 51 species. Notables include: singing Eastern Whip-poor-wills; a Great Horned Owl that flew across the trail in front of me; Least Flycatcher; Eastern and Western Kingbirds; Swainson’s Thrush; a sparrow-palooza of Chipping, Clay-colored, Field, White-crowned, Harris’s, White-throated, and Lincoln’s; a singing Spotted Towhee; Eastern and Western Meadolarks; and Yellow, Blackpoll, Palm, and Yellow-rumped Warblers.

Randy W. Sioux City, IA

Left to Right: A little fog, 3 Eastern Meadowlarks and a Red-winged Blackbird, Swainson’s Thrush, Lincoln’s Sparrow

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 4 may 2024

Woodbury County

*Wood Thrush image copyright 2024 by Rex Rundquist, used with permission.*

I went to the Wildflower Walk at Fowler Preserve this morning and ended up birding for most of the day. I heard and then saw a couple of Wood Thrush at Fowler.

The Square was productive again today with a dozen Long-billed Dowitchers mixed with many Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs and a few Stilt Sandpipers. I have included a few photos of those. The photo of three species together are Stilt Sandpiper, Long-billed Dowitcher (LBDO) and Greater Yellowlegs, left to right (far left image, below). There’s a better photo of a Stilt by itself (second image from left, below), a photo of a few LBDO together (third image from left, below) , and a mixed group of Yellowlegs (far right image, below).

Rex R., Sioux City, IA

Fontanelle Forest

A friend and I went to Fontenelle Forest in Omaha to practice some bird photography. Here are a few images from our trip. Left to Right: House Wren, Indigo Bunting, Swainson’s Thrush, White-breasted Nuthatch.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA.
http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE friDAY, 3 may 2024

Plymouth County, IA

Red-headed Woodpecker returns -- one year to the day!!!

Jon N., and Leesa M., Southwest Plymouth County

Prairie Park

A morning walk around Prairie Park revealed 32 species. Interesting notables include the following songsters: Common Yellowthroat, Yellow Warbler, Warbling Vireo, Baltimore Oriole, and Rose-breated Grosbeak. A Green Heron was seen and a Spotted Sandpiper (middle image, below) and several Least Sandpipers (right image, below) were cooperative photo subjects.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 1 may 2024

We just saw our first hummingbird of the season! Last year our first was May 9th! We did have the feeders out and ready!!!

Leesa M., Plymouth County, IA

Bacon Creek Park

Went to Bacon Creek yesterday (5/1/24). Spent maybe 3-4 hours sauntering, if one wants to call it that. I probably stood around searching brush and tree limbs the better part of that time.

Merlin told me that I heard roughly 20 different birds. I thought I had shut Merlin off after one recording but evidently not, and left the phone in a jacket breast pocket and it kept recording bird song. Geez, I am impressed the phone mic picked up the birds inside the jacket. Perhaps a little scary?

I was surprised how close I could get to the eastern towhees feeding on the ground. I just sat down and waited.

The majority of the birds were along the water, especially leading up to and away from the spillway.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA, http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

Top Row, from Left: Yellow-rumped Warbler, female, male and male; male Eastern Towhee; female Eastern Towhee

Bottom Row, from Left: Ruby-crowned Kinglet; Yellow Warbler; House Wren; Brown Thrasher; female Red-winged Blackbird

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 30 APRIL 2024

Bacon Creek

A walk around the lake this morning, before the thunderstorm, produced 31 species including my first Yellow Warblers and Rose-breasted Grosbeaks. Other sightings of note: Gray Catbird; Spotted Sandpiper; Chipping, Field, White-throated, and Harris’s Sparrows; and a singing Eastern Meadowlark.

Rex R. was also birding before the inclement weather. He reported Clay-colored Sparrows which I did not see.

Randy W., and Rex R., Sioux City, IA

SE Wildwood Park (Plymouth County)

Before thundershowers moved through, TONs of blue jays (not surprising with all the white oak trees) and usual and customary spring birds - brown thrasher, and audibles (my own bad ears & Merlin) on eastern towhees & rose-breasted grosbeaks.

Best surprise was my second-ever sighting of a black-and-white warbler with their nuthatch-like foraging -

And once back at home, my FOY ruby-throated hummer.

Kristy M., Plymouth County, IA

Kramper Lake, Dakota County, NE

Eastern Kingbird and Bank Swallow showed up this morning at Kramper Lake.

Bob L., Dakota Dunes, SD

Plymouth County, IA

Baltimore Oriole in the Loess Hills, Southern Plymouth County
Field Sparrow witting on my deck railing in the rain.

Jon N., Plymouth County, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 29 APRIL 2024

I went out to Stone State Park Monday morning to look for the pileated woodpecker. Didn't see it so drove down to Turtle Lake. I found an opsrey flying about along with a couple of ducks and geese.

I went back out Monday afternoon with the sun shining to see if the woodpecker was back. Well, there was an osprey sitting on a branch with a fish above the woodpecker's entrance hole. Guessing the woodpeckers weren't returning until that guy was gone. The osprey sat for the longest time looking about before it even tried eating the fish it had.

I made my way up the hill at the entrance of the park where there are some wood steps like at Dorothy Pecaut and kept low behind a tree and some tall weeds. Got into a position where I could sit on a camping stool, draped a cami cover over me and the lens and shot photos for about an hour or so.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA, http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

Little Sioux Park, Correctionville, IA

A cool, windy morning at Little Sioux Park produced 39 species. Highlights for me were: two Willets, about 30 Franklin’s Gulls (far right image, below) , Forster’s Tern, Cooper’s Hawk, Bald Eagle, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (middle image, below), Warbling Vireos singing, and a Lark Sparrow (second image from left, below).

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

The Rock Place - PRIVATE PROPERTY

Can you see the Sora hiding in the marsh?
Sora came out of hiding!

Jerry V., and Jan N., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE sunDAY, 28 APRIL 2024

Leesa and I were birding in Stone State Park this morning, Sunday, April 28, 2024, and were fortunate enough to catch a glimpse of a Pileated Woodpecker. Apologies for bad focus.

We also had an Osprey came swooping into the park near Turtle Lake, circle a big dead tree and attempted to land on a branch and we heard the branch crack and it flew off. You can see the fresh break from the Osprey on the limb. It should be noted Merlin Sound ID picked up about 8 separate birds while we were driving up from Turtle Lake.

Jon N., and Leesa M, Plymouth County, IA

Plymouth and Woodbury Counties

Our first reports of returning Baltimore Orioles came in on Sunday, Apr. 28. Since then additional reports from other locations were received. Marla and Kevin also reported a Gray Catbird.

Get those feeders or oranges out!

Observers: Marla & Kevin Kerr and Leesa McNeil & Jon Nylen

Prairie Park, Sioux City, IA

A morning walk before the rain produced a surprising 30 species at Prairie Park. Highlights, to me, included: Spotted Sandpiper, Ring-billed Gull, Forster’s Tern, my first Warbling Vireos for the year, and Savannah Sparrow. I also found a swallow roost with Northern Rough-winged, Tree, and Cliff Swallows sharing the same tree.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 27 APRIL 2024

The Rock Place, PRIVATE PROPERTY, view after business hours

Sora, 2 FOY
Plus 6 species of shorebirds

K Ave., Dakota County, NE

Cattle Egret, 2 FOY
American Golden-Plover, 62
Semi-Palmated Plover, 3 FOY
American Avocet, 72
Willet, 62
Hudsonian Godwit, 13
Marbled Godwit, 3
Long-billed Dowitcher, >40
White-faced Ibis, 5
Forster's Tern, 9
Northern Shrike, 1 Very Late
In all, 18 species of shorebirds

Kramper Lake

Black Tern, 1 FOY, early
Cliff Swallow, many FOY
Bank Swallow, 4 FOY
American Avocet, 103

Jerry P., and Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

Top Row, from Left: Cattle Egret, Hudsonian Godwit, Long-billed Dowitcher

Bottom Row, from Left: Marbled Godwit, Willet, Sora

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE thursDAY, 25 APRIL 2024

Summary

American Bittern, The Square (private, view from road)
Black-necked Stilt, 2, The Square (private)
American Golden-Plover, 6, K Ave, Dakota County (private, view from road)
Hudsonian Godwit, The Rock Place (private, view after business hours)
Willet, The Rock Place (private)
Forster's Tern, 3, Kramper Lake

Observers: Mark Haindfield, Tucker Lutter, Bob Livermore, Bob Nickolson, Rob Towler, Jerry Probst, Bill Huser

Sioux City, Woodbury County

We were excited to see a couple of Pine Siskins this month in our yard - the first since last May (2023). Kevin took these photos of a Pine Siskin and an American Goldfinch eating together on 4-25-2024. In addition, I observed a large bird in a tree in our area, which on further inspection was an adult Bald Eagle.

Marla and Kevin Kerr

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 24 APRIL 2024

Summary

Eastern Whip-poor-will, several locations near Broken Kettle FOY
Least Tern, Snyder's Bend FOY
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, Stone Park
Pileated Woodpecker, Joy Hollow and Stone Park
Loggerhead Shrike, Broken Kettle Preserve FOY
Northern Parula, Stone Park FOY

Observers: Mark Haindfield, Tucker Lutter, Bob Livermore, Bob Nickolson, Rob Towler, Jerry Probst, Bill Huser

Stone Park

Northern Parula, 1 male FOY
Broad-winged Hawk, 1
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, 1
Pileated Woodpecker, 1 Nesting

Jerry P., and Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 23 APRIL 2024

Leesa and I went to Turtle Lake in Stone Park on Monday in hopes of seeing a Pileated Woodpecker. We heard several tree drummings that were inconclusive for being a compared to our Merlin app. While there we saw the following:

4 mallards - 2 hens, 2 drakes
14 blue-winged teal (left image, below)
8 Canada geese
1 Towhee - unknown whether spotted, Eastern or rufous-sided
1 house wren (second from left image, below)
1 Northern Flicker

We then went to Joy Hollow in hopes of seeing a Pileated. Ran into Tucker Lutter while there and he said he had heard a Pileated earlier in the morning.

2 American Kestrels (remaining 3 images, below)
2 Eastern Bluebirds - 1 male, 1 female

Jon N., and Leesa M., Plymouth County, IA

Broken Kettle Grassland

Had a Loggerhead Shrike at Broken Kettle Grasslands yesterday and today. It was along Highway 12 near the driveway to the office.

This morning a Peregrine Falcon was harassing a Swainson's Hawk and Turkey Vulture at the Broken Kettle Office. An Osprey has also been hanging around the ponds on 234th Street and Butcher Road.

A massive flight of Franklin's Gulls also took place yesterday at Broken Kettle with at least 4,000 over the course of the afternoon.

The Pileated Woodpecker was present at Joy Hollow again today just south of the cabins.

Tucker L., Broken Kettle Grassland Preserve

The Square

Black-bellied Plover, 1 FOY (right image, below)
Dunlin, 1 FOY
Swainson's Hawk, 3 (left image, below)

Jerry P., and Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 22 APRIL 2024

Dakota County Birds — K Ave Grasslands north of NE-35

*Northern Shrike image copyright 2024 by William F. Huser, used with permission.*

Hudsonian Godwit, 18
Willet, 1 FOY
Dowitcher sp., 25 FOY
White-faced Ibis, 22 FOY
All these shorebirds were present for only a few minutes each. Many Blue-winged and Green-winged Teal, Wigeon, Gadwall and others also present.

Hamlin Ave

Northern Shrike, 1 LATE!

Jerry P., and Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

The 'Square', Woodbury County, IA

An adult Peregrine Falcon was observed in the prairie close up by the road with a bird in its clutches. With a south wind gusting up to 40 MPH it was having trouble getting off the ground. The unfortunate bird appeared to be a Killdeer.

Jerry V., Sioux City, IA

Sioux City Northside

It was so cool to watch these guys/gals and to see heads popping up here and there as they adjusted themselves and dealing with the 30mph wind gusts Monday. I would get lined up and then, whoooooshhhhhhh. The wind blows me off my shot. Grrrrrrr.

So neat to see so many in one place. Although mostly hidden.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE sunDAY, 21 APRIL 2024

These were taken at a Great Blue Heron rookery I found, it is just north of the former Mikes Saloon about a quarter-mile on K-22.

There is also a active rookery on the Southwest edge of Lemars just east of Hwy 75 across Hwy 75 from Loves Truck Stop.

Todd W., Sioux City, IA

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

A morning bicycle ride around the trail system revealed 36 species. Highlights include a Lesser Yellowlegs, immature Bald Eagle, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, several singing Brown Thrashers, Eastern Bluebird, Eastern Meadowlark, Eastern Towhee, and one singing Spotted Towhee.

I also stumbled upon a Red Admiral butterfly on a tree trunk tying to warm up after a 27F overnight.

I also noted a coyote running near the blind below the archery range. I was on the Lake Loop on the opposite side of Mud Lake when I saw it run along the bank, past the blind and up the trail and disappear.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

Plymouth County, IA

Eastern Whip-poor-will calling tonight (4/21/2024)

Dotty Z., Plymouth County

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 20 APRIL 2024

Eastern Meadowlarks at Adams Homestead

I found the one on the tree top along the walking trail just as you leave the visitor's center, perched up high just singing its heart out. So much so that it gave me time to put my back down and put my lens and camera body together and then sit on the ground to take some photos.

I then hung out at one of the blinds just up the way for a while watching a "swirl" or whatever of blue-winged teal ducks circling an area while feeding (those pics to come later).

So then I went for a walk down the trail and veered to the left on the river loop. As I got closer to that trail that cuts across to the Cottowood trail into the trees that I heard more meadowlarks and saw then flitting about. I stepped off the trail into the trees right before that cutoff and stood for a bit and then a meadowlark dropped into the grass along that trail and began feeding.

It was like it was wearing its cloak of invisibility as everytime it bent down to eat something, "poof", it disappeared and walked along feeding. It's feathers on its back blending into the grasses. Then up it would pop and the yellow would show through, which is why I sent so many similar ones just to show that effect, plus then it would just start singing. Thought maybe I was at an Italian opera where people walk about a stage and then burst into song.

When it bent down to eat and I could kind of gauge where it was I tried creeping closer for better, tighter photos of its yellow chest showing through the grasses. Did miss the shot of this bird having a quick aerial conflict with another one. Image just isn't sharp.

It was fun to be able, finally, to get so up close and personal. Although a large zoom lens also helps. I believe I saw maybe 2-3, 3-4 pair flying about together. There were some meadowlarks also in that meadow area where the cut grass path and benches are that sits behind the farm lot (Sonny's Acres?) of the homestead.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

Eared Grebes on Storm Lake

I did a quick run up to Storm Lake after Dana Siefer left a message regarding Eared Grebes on the lake. Under poor lighting and lots of strong winds I recorded many of the about 70 grebe. Here are a few of what I recorded on the North West edge of the lake.

Don P., Ida Grove, IA

Stone State Park

A morning outing to Pammel Valley and the trail head of the Carolyn Benne Nature Trail produced 25 species. Highlights were two Louisiana Waterthrush, one singing in Pammel Valley (two images on left, below) and the second around a dark pool just north of the trail head.

The area around Turtle Lake produced Eastern Towhee, Swamp, Song, and Lincoln’s Sparrow (two images on right, below), and a pair of Double-crested Cormorants fishing the lake.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

Ponca State Park

Yesterday, Sunday, April 21, 2024, Leesa and I went out to Ponca to investigate information that someone saw a “hundred” eagles at PSP. We did not see a solitary eagle while at the park. While we were there, we renewed our yearly, out-of-state permit for $70.

We went on a short, mile hike both at the lookout and down at the water’s edge. I photographed a towhee which was very blurry and I was unable to get a good ID. Merlin Sound ID indicated it was a Spotted Towhee. We saw limited birds in the short amount of time we were there because of a trip to Sioux Falls later. Those birds included Eastern Bluebird, White-throated Sparrow, Song Sparrow and some Canada Geese, about 20 (below images from Left to Right, respectively). We thought we saw an eagle sitting in what appeared to be an eagle nest. With my lens taxed to its maximum resolution ability, the eagle turned out to be a Canadian Goose in the ? nest. It appeared that there might be a gosling in the nest. Very hard to discern from the photo. The nest was approximately 50-60 feet off the ground. I was unaware this was part of their normal behavior.

Note: there was a small tree branch in front of the White-throated sparrow and a small repair job was required to be presentable. You have permission to further disseminate any photos as you see fit.

Jon N., Plymouth County, IA

Sioux City Prairie Park

Kevin and I visited Prairie Park on Sunday. We thought it would be a quick trip to empty the used fishing line receptacles, but 2 hours and 25 species later, we were still there. There were a few different species of duck on the lake, including 2 Hooded Mergansers, and a variety of sparrow species. There were two nestling groups of Canada Geese Goslings that were quite adorable. The star of the show was large flocks of Franklin's Gulls - who made quick passes on the lake and traveled onward.

Marla and Kevin K., Sioux City, IA

NOTE: It is great to see that fishermen, or the public, are using the fishing line receptacles. That much line is now out of the natural environment. Thanks, Marla & Kevin, for monitoring this!

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE friDAY, 19 APRIL 2024

Siouxland Highlights:

Trumpeter Swan, 4 Owego
Hudsonian Godwit, Sandhill Lake
Spotted Sandpiper, 2 Bacon Creek FOY
Willet, 1 The Square FOY
Least Sandpiper, 2 K Ave, Dakota County
Forster's Tern, 1 Snyder's Bend FOY
American Bittern, 1 Owego FOY
Great Egret, 1 Bacon Creek Park FOY
Louisiana Waterthrush, 1 Ponca State Park
Brewer's Blackbird, 50 K Ave, Dakota County

Observers: Rob Towler Randy Williams Jerry Probst Bill Huser

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE thursDAY, 18 APRIL 2024

I had a Louisiana Waterthrush along Joy Creek directly west of the shelter at Joy Hollow Scout Camp in Plymouth County on April 18. There are some trails leading down into the ravine. The camp is open to the public now that it is owned by TNC.

The approximate location is at this pin: https://maps.app.goo.gl/TZ53vDbXpFP5SCc18

Tucker L., Broken Kettle Grasslands

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 17 APRIL 2024

Plymouth County, IA

First of Year (FOY) brown thrasher seen on the north side of Kingsley this morning.
FOY bank swallows seen at SE Wildwood Park, Plymouth Co (over the pond that's on pasture just west of the park's west fenceline.

Kristy M., Plymouth Co

Kramper Lake/ Danish Alps:

Common Loon, 1 continuing from yesterday
Rough-winged Swallow, 2 FOY
Lark Sparrow, 1 FOY

K Ave, north of NE-35:

American Golden-Plover, 44
Greater Yellowlegs, 9
Lesser Yellowlegs, 150
Hudsonian Godwit, 2 FOY
Marbled Godwit, 14 FOY
Wilson's Phalarope, 2 FOY
Franklin's Gull, 50
Brewer's Blackbird, 100

Jerry P., and Bill H., South Sioux City, NE; Bob L., Dakota Dunes, SD

Plymouth County, IA

These American White Pelicans were photographed today off our deck in Southern Plymouth County during a flyby.

Jon N., Plymouth County, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 16 APRIL 2024

Some of the reports I've gathered the past two days:

Black-necked Stilt — The Square
American Golden-Plover — K Ave, Dakota County, NE
Cattle Egret — Mud Lake, Adams Homestead
House Wren — Kramper Lake area
Blue-Gray Gnatcatcher — Stone State Park, Benne Trail
Savannah Sparrow — Kramper Lake
Grasshopper Sparrow — non-fatal window strike at Sue Bee Honey
Swamp Sparrow — multiple locations
Yellow-rumped Warbler — multiple locations
Louisiana Waterthrush — Stone State Park, Benne Trail

Observers: Randy Williams; Marla & Kevin Kerr; Tucker Lutter; Mark Haindfield; Jerry Probst; Bob Livermore; Rob Towler; and Bill Huser, LHAS Hotline coordinator.

K Avenue, north of NE-35

Franklin's Gull, 1000's

Kramper Lake/ Danish Alps:

Common Loon, 1, breeding (alternate) plumage, FOY
Sanderling, 6 FOY

Teri D., Homer, NE

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 15 april 2024

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

I opted for an early morning ride at Adams to check for American Woodcock and Eastern Whip-poor-will. I did not see or hear either species. However, I discovered a total of 30 species during my ride around the trail system. Notable sightings for me were: Field, Vesper, and White-throated Sparrows; a singing Eastern Towhee and Eastern Phoebe; Ruby-crowned Kinglet; several disorganized “Vs” of Double-crested Cormorants flying over (second image from left); and a surprising 8 Eastern Meadowlarks (third image from left) at various locations along the trail system.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 13 april 2024

As far as I can tell the last sighting of the Say's Phoebe at Broken Kettle was April 11 at around 4:45 PM and it was absent on April 12. I hope it is around next week and I will send an update on Monday. There were likely two birds at the preserve as I had a second individual in the bison pasture toward the north end of the preserve on the 10th.

I had a visual sighting of the Pileated Woodpecker at Joy Hollow on April 12. It was at the far south end of the camp on the west side of Joy Creek. This area of the camp has no trails but it flew north along the creek toward an area with trails. There should be trail maps at the main entrance to the camp. TNC purchased this property last year so the public is free to explore the property.

The spring ephemeral flowers are starting to grow at Joy Hollow (some are blooming) including bloodroot, Dutchman's breeches, and white trout lily. Should be some beautiful blooms in the next week or so. If you are interested in plants I highly recommend the Iowa Wildflowers app - it is a great resource that has taught me a lot.

Last sighting of note - Scott Moats had calling Northern Bobwhites on the preserve yesterday morning. Good to see they are still hanging on in the northern hills.

There are new bison calves at the preserve that were born in the last week.

Stone State Park

Louisiana Waterthrush and Blue-gray Gnatcatcher have returned to Stone State Park today at the trailhead of the Carolyn Benne Nature Trail.

Tucker L., Broken Kettle Grasslands

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE thursDAY, 11 april 2024

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

Several images from this morning at Adams Homestead.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 10 april 2024

Broken Kettle Grasslands

Say's Phoebe, 1 FOY and rare

Look along entrance road to office.

Tucker L., Broken Kettle Prairie, Plymouth County, IA

Found early this morning by Preserve staffer, Tucker Lutter and re-found on entrance road at 9:40 AM and photographed.

Say's Phoebe, 1 RARE!
Eastern Phoebe pair
Franklin Gull, 16 low altitude flyover
Barn Swallow, 3

Tucker L., Broken Kettle, Jerry P., and Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 10 april 2024

Three photos and two videos by Jan Null of Pileated Woodpeckers at Stone Park on 4-10-24. The birds were found and reported to me by Bob and Phyllis Nickolson.

Jerry V. and Jan N., Sioux City, IA

Photo captions:

Pileated Woodpecker (female) Drilling a hole at Stone Park.
Pileated Woodpecker (Female)-Time for a break!
Pileated Woodpecker (Male)-My turn!

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 9 april 2024

A Pileated Woodpecker was calling at Joy Hollow Scout Camp today and was heard throughout the morning and afternoon. TNC purchased the property last year and it is open to the public for hiking. The bird was calling from the heavily wooded Joy Creek valley to the west of the main lodge at the scout camp. This species continues its expansion north and it seems likely to me that the dense riparian woods along the Big Sioux River will continue to draw them north.

In other news I have moved back to the area after a long absence! I am now employed with The Nature Conservancy as Western Iowa Assistant Land Steward and will be headquartered at Broken Kettle Prairie. I look forward to attending Audubon field trips and meetings again in the near future.

Good birding,

Tucker L., Plymouth County, IA

Snyder's Bend

Black-necked Stilt, 1 FOY and rare
Bonaparte's Gull, 21 FOY

Owego Wetlands

Swainson's Hawk, 1 FOY
Peregrine Falcon, 1 FOY
Brewer's Blackbird, 7 FOY (look on burned grass)

The Square

Yellow-headed Blackbird, 16

Stone State Park

Pileated Woodpecker, 2 (Bob N.)

Jerry P., and Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 5 april 2024

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

These are not stellar photos of birds but I was checking out a "new to me" used camera body I recently received and wanted to record some images in case there were issues. It was a bit of a cornucopia of waterfowl, though, with a number of species kind of intermingled about.

I heard a Cooper's hawk around one of the taller trees near the shelter at the Welcome Center. After having some Cooper’s visit my backyard looking for a meal, I recognize the bird's chirp now while it's sitting in a tree. Todd W. was there, too, said he thought he had seen a couple of them flying about.

The light kept changing with clouds and sunshine, and it was a bit different shooting more late morning to midday. I also had to spend some time setting up the camera with settings as well. But rather than go home, it was nicer sitting outside and then being ready to go once I had some settings programmed into the various buttons on the camera body.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA; http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 30 MARCH 2024

Buckskin Hills vicinity, Dixon County:

Greater Prairie-Chicken, 7 displaying males
American White Pelican, 5 2nd of year

Powder Creek WMA, Dixon County

Double-crested Cormorant, 1 First Of Year (FOY)
Tree Swallow, 3 FOY
Northern Shrike, 1 late

Ponca State Park Resource Center feeders

Purple Finch, 1 male FOY

Ponca State Park - north unit, Dixon County

Short-eared Owl, 1 FOY
Also noted approximately 7 migrating American Kestrels

Ed B., Wayne, NE and Bill H., South Sioux City

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE friDAY, 29 MARCH 2024

A trip to Union Bridge Trail and Little Sioux Park provided this Bald Eagle image.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

*Bald Eagle image copyright 2024 by Jerry L. Mennenga, used with permission.*

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE friDAY, 22 MARCH 2024

Crystal Cove Park, South Sioux City, NE

Great Blue Heron, 1 FOY

Bill H., South Sioux City

Bacon Creek Park, Sioux City, IA

Red-breasted Merganser, 2, with Common Mergansers
Among 10 species of ducks forced down by the bad weather.

Rob T., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE thursDAY, 21 MARCH 2024

Kramper Lake

Turkey Vulture, 1 FOY (left and center images, below)
Red-tailed Hawk (calurus/abieticola), 1 (image on right, below)

Bill H., South Sioux City

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 20 MARCH 2024

Crystal Cove Park, South Sioux City, NE

Red-breasted Merganser, 2 females, First of Year (FOY) Left after 5 minutes.

Bill H., South Sioux City

Owego Wetlands

These are not stellar images, even running them through another program to "enhance" them a bit.

The wind was pretty stiff, so trying to get a lower resolution images without the lens bobbing, even on a tripod it was challenging. The slightest motion and everything was out of focus.

I also had an Eastern Meadowlark (according to a bird book image) teasing the heck out of me. Sit on a branch, preen for a moment until I was lined up and then "poof", it was gone.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA http://www.lostinsiouxland.com and Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 19 MARCH 2024

A morning walk along Union Bridge Trail between Little Sioux Park and Correctionville revealed 22 species including Bald Eagles and first of year (FOY) Killdeer (for me).

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 18 MARCH 2024

I have a white tailed (leucistic) adult grackle. It came to me last year and is back today March 18, 2024.

Michele I., Sioux City, IA

Private Pond near Newcastle, NE

8 species of ducks including American Wigeon, 53
One of which was a 'Storm Wigeon,' a male with extensive white on its head, both on the crown and on the cheek. This condition is thought to be a genetic variant and is not due to leucism, a pigment disorder. Estimates of the occurrence of this rare variant are 1 in every 500-1000 male American Wigeons. Note in one of the attached photos it is next to a slow to molt American Wigeon with hardly any white on its head.

Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE sunDAY, 17 MARCH 2024

Buckskin Hills vicinity

Greater Prairie-Chicken, 6

Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE saturDAY, 16 MARCH 2024

This morning, it appeared one bird was at the heron rookery on the west edge of Moville (near the car wash & Sinclair station); upon closer look, there were five.

A couple private farm ponds on Humboldt Avenue have waterfowl. I think these are both in Plymouth Co. The one just north of D-12 and to the east has two large swans, probably trumpeter, & a handful of ducks. The pond is probably 1/4-1/3 mile off the gravel, & without a scope, hard to definitively id them.

The farm pond on the west side of the road a mile south of C-70 has quite a few white geese beached on the eastern shore, some with gray, and some larger white bodies that appear to be swans. Again this pond is over a 1/2 mile away, & w/o a scope, hard to id but guessing snowies.

The northern shrike continues to be in the vicinity of 320th St. & Pioneer Avenue (Plymouth Co) - usually east of that intersection on power lines, but he's also been south as well. I got the best looks yet today: it was hanging on for dear life on the power line in the wind, rather than worrying about someone stalking him in a big pickup!

Kristy M., Plymouth County

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wednesDAY, 13 MARCH 2024

Yesterday afternoon (3/12/24) I was surprised by a shrike on a powerline, about 1 mile east of the intersection of Pioneer Avenue & 320th street, Kingsley (Plymouth Co). I couldn't get my binoculars up fast enough before s/he disappeared behind me to get a definitive on which kind of shrike; by the time I got turned around to search for it, it was gone.

Kristy M., Plymouth County, IA

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

A morning bicycle ride around the preserve revealed 28 species of birds. Most notable sightings include one blue-phase Snow Goose (left image, below) on the North end of Mud Lake; a pair of Bufflehead with Mallards and Gadwalls on the South end; a pair of American Kestrels on the Northwest corner of Lake Loop near the private bison pasture; a Great Horned Owl; and two singing Eastern Meadowlarks (middle and right images, below) in adjacent territories.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE SunDAY, 10 MARCH 2024

DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge

Yes, the juvenile eagles were over the river when they did their "dance" on Sunday, as one youngster tried to steal what looks like a snow goose from the other juvenile.

In one of the last images you can see an out of focus adult sitting in a tree. The very first image is tack sharp, but the rest are just ever so slightly unsharp. UGH!!!!

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE wEdneSDAY, 6 MARCH 2024

A morning bicycle ride around Adams Homestead revealed 14 species of birds. Most notable sightings were a pair of American Kestrels (left image, below) on the Northwest corner of the Lake Loop and one Northern Shrike (middle and right images) adjacent to the Missouri River on the River Loop.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 5 march 2024

Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center

Lots of birds in the last 2 days around the building.

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Lots of Robins & Goldfinches this morning
Wild Turkeys
Bald Eagle flyover
Tufted Titmouse was heard

Monday, March 4, 2024

2 Brown Creepers
12-15 Robins
8-10 Goldfinches
House Finch
Downy Woodpecker
Hairy Woodpecker
Red-bellied Woodpeckers
Black-capped Chickadees
White-breasted Nuthatches
Bald Eagle flew over (they are nesting along Big Sioux again)

Theresa D. Kruid, Education Director, Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center

Sunday, March 3, 2024 — Buckskin Hills WMA (SW of Newcastle, NE)

Golden Eagle, 2
Greater Prairie-Chicken, 4 displaying males (11 reported on the lek earlier in the week)

Saturday, March 2, 2024 — Ponca State Park, north unit on the Missouri River:

Greater White-fronted Goose, estimated 6000
Snow Goose, estimated 1000
Canada, Cackling and Ross's Geese in smaller numbers 13 species of ducks

Ed B., Wayne, NE and Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE tuesDAY, 27 FEBRUARY 2024

We continue to see, most days, one and sometime two Northern Saw-whet Owls. They tend to leave the second and third week in March each year. Here is one I found this morning. It had a second mouse stuck in the branches below.

Don P., Ida Grove, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE monDAY, 26 FEBRUARY 2024

Private wetlands, Woodbury County, IA

Ducks and Geese and Swans, oh my! (left)
Waterfowl getting ready to head north (middle)
A Northern Harrier searching for prey (right)

Jerry V., and Jan N., Sioux City, IA

LHAS BIRD HOTLINE friDAY, 16 FEBRUARY 2024

Great Backyard Bird Count at Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center

The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) got off to a great start when 7 hearty individuals gathered at the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center (DPNC) to wander around their backyard. Ten species were identified, most very close to the feeders near the visitor center due to the chill temperatures and increasing wind speed.

The highlight was finding a pair of Barred Owls near the end of our foray around the trails.

Thank you to Kari and Mariah for being excellent hosts and guides

Top Row: Snowy trail images by Randall Williams (left); Marla Kerr (center); Randall Williams (right)

Bottom Row, all by Kevin Kerr: Deer (left); Barred Owl (center and right)

All images copyright by the respective photographer as listed above, used with permission.

LHAS Bird Hotline thursday, 15 February 2024

I went to Browns Lake where I saw an eagle circle overhead and land in a tree across the lake, but then vanished. A few geese, but nothing stellar.

So I headed out and stopped by the bushes that line the drive coming into Bigelow Park. I had noticed birds the other day in the bushes, but then scattering after I would stop to look.

Thursday I stopped to look and realized these birds were Cedar Waxwings. I parked, put down the window and finally had to open my driver's door for better positioning. And I waited. They came back to the bushes to eat the berries, Flitting here and there. and gulping those suckers right down. It was challenging to photograph them among the bush stems. Then they would fly off and sit atop the nearby trees. I estimate there were 2-3 dozen waxwings up in the trees, and maybe 3-4 would come down to eat. It was fun photographing them and I got a bit lucky.

I also ran into Jan and Jerry out at Browns Lake doing a little bird reconnaissance themselves. I had actually passed them when I pulled into Snyder Bend Park. Small world.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS Bird Hotline Wednesday, 14 February 2024

Building Better Birders Workshop, Hillview Park, Hinton, IA

Three members of Loess Hills Audubon Society (Randy, Marla, and Kevin) arrived at Hillview Recreation Center in Plymouth County to attend a knowledgeable presentation and discussion on Owl identification by Kelly McKay. Kelly’s enthusiasm for birding is infectious; it is a real treat to attend one of his Citizen Science workshops!

After the discussion inside the Hillview Recreation Center, Kevin and Marla went birding with Kelly and Victoria! Plymouth County Conservation Naturalist Victoria DeVos led the driving tour. Our first stop was at an access point to the Hillview Recreation Area, where we saw Blue Jays, nuthatches and woodpeckers. As we drove, Kelly pointed out potential owl habitat and discussed strategies for locating owls.

Our second stop was at an area along the road where Victoria had seen Barred Owls. We called for a Barred Owl and one responded to us. Cedar Waxwings, Dark-eyed Juncos, and a Rough-legged Hawk were seen along this stop.

Kelly set up his scope at a stop near the Broken Kettle Grasslands, where he spotted a Golden Eagle, several more Rough-legged Hawks, and a Red-tailed Hawk. On the last stop on Highway 12, through the scope, we saw many Bald Eagles and a large number of Common Grackles mixed with some blackbird species.

For a day that started out with some promise of sun, it quickly disappeared into a cold and windy day testing the hardy birders.

Do not miss Kelly’s next Building Better Birders workshop at the Hillview Recreation Area on May 13th! There will be an opportunity to participate in two bird hikes and learn about the Warblers of Iowa. Kelly’s workshops are designed to be entertaining and educational for all levels of birders from beginner to expert. Contact Victoria DeVos at vdevos@plymouthcountyiowa.org or 712-947-4270 to register.

Snyder Bend County Park

I went out to Snyder Bend on Wednesday afternoon and yes, the clouds had moved in and things looked ugly. But still a lot of Greater White-Fronted geese there hanging out until the sunset got closer.

I got some practice in with the geese flying and landing because of the wind direction. They looked like those harrier aircraft that hover in place before actually landing. But I still have some work to do on technique.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS Bird Hotline Tuesday, 13 February 2024

Carey and I went to Brown’s Lake Tuesday afternoon to see what we might find. It was pretty much iced over. However, we saw maybe 200-250 greater white-fronted geese as well as some Canada geese.

Met a couple guys there birding in the afternoon, as 2-3 vehicles came around, parked, and watched the birds on the water.

Bill S. was one of the guys that talked with me and Carey. He and his friend were pretty excited because they thought they saw a hybrid bird between a snow goose and greater white- fronted goose (Please see Identification Note, below, by Bill H.). They said there were four of them. I am including three pics, two kind of tight, as close as I could get from the shore and one looser one with greater white-fronted geese around it (bottom three images, below).

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

Identification Note by Bill H.:

Jerry P. and I saw this goose on 2/13/24. My conclusion was that it was a blue phase Snow Goose, molting from a dark immature to the white-headed adult plumage. My reasons for calling it a Snow Goose were:

Pink rather than orange legs,
A pink bill with a black 'grin patch.'
a size slightly larger than a White-fronted Goose,
the dark back characteristic of the adult blue phase Snow Geese.

Additionally, immature blue phase are a dusky gray color overall that transitions to an all white head, a bluish gray breast and back, and a variable amount of white on the breast and belly. This bird shows the transition of gray to white head and an unusual amount of white on the belly and breast. I do not see any White-fronted Goose characters in this goose.

LHAS Bird Hotline Sunday, 11 February 2024

Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve

A morning bike ride around the trails at Adams Homestead revealed 13 species. Most notable were the Canada, Cackling, and Greater White-fronted Geese in the small patches of open water on Mud Lake, on the lake ice, and in the air. A few Common Goldeneyes were noted along the Missouri River. There were also two immature and one adult Bald Eagle scattered about the preserve.

The majority of the figure “8” of trails were open with only a few snow drifts across the trail at various shaded spots. The largest section of snow drifts was on the northwest corner of the preserve’s Lake Loop adjacent to the private bison pasture.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS Bird Hotline Thursday, 8 February 2024

Sending a few pictures from different places.

Blencoe and Little Sioux, Iowa, Tuesday, 6 February 2024

A better day was Tuesday when the sun came out a bit and found some eagles at the intersection of the Missouri River and Little Sioux River at Little Sioux. The one eagle pic at Little Sioux I didn't realize until I got home but there is a juvenile sitting on a pier post (EagleLittle Sioux 0049) in the lower left hand corner of the pic of the river. I might have tried to get tighter had I seen it when in the field.

This hawk was flying above a corn field outside of Little Sioux. These are the best pics I could get from the road. Wondering if it's a juvenile of some species like the red-tailed hawk, although its tail is nothing like the red-tail. Or maybe a young rough legged hawk, again.

Correctionville, Wednesday, 7 February 2024

Today in Correctionville I only heard a couple of song birds. Canada geese along the Union Bridge Trail in Correctionville as well as six eagles, saw six there, four adults and two juveniles.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA, http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS Bird Hotline Monday, 22 January 2024

Bald Eagle in Riverside along the Big Sioux River today.

Todd W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS Bird Hotline Tuesday, 16 January 2024

Cooper’s Hawk photos were shot through an upstairs window. Did not want to try and shoot from the deck. Figured it needed its mealtime. The image quality is not the best, even using some AI software like Topaz.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS Bird Hotline Sunday, 14 January 2024

Osprey recently photographed from my brother’s home in Florida. The Ospreys are just thick down there. This was a life bird for me.

Jon N., and Leesa M., Plymouth County, IA

*Osprey image copyright 2024 by Jon Nylen, used with permission.*

LHAS Bird Hotline Tuesday, 9 January 2024

Snowbird Feeder Photos

They are not stellar photos, but the little guys are cute as they fend for themselves. And the cold hasn't even arrived yet.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA

http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS Bird Hotline Friday, 5 January 2024

*Rough-legged Hawk image copyright 2024 by Jerry L. Mennenga, used with permission.*

This is a crappy photo and it was a crappy day to shoot, but took a drive down to Badger "lake", which no longer has any water, and drove about and saw a juvenile bald eagle in a tree hanging out as well as some other hawks. Looked in the Peterson Field Guide to Birds and the book’s picture of a juvenile rough legged hawk was the closest I could find matching this bird.

Jerry M., Sioux City, IA
http://www.lostinsiouxland.com or Http://www.jerrylmennengaphotographer.photoshelter.com

LHAS Bird Hotline Wednesday, 3 January 2024

On a foggy, frosty Wednesday morning:

Ponca S.P. - north unit grasslands

Merlin, 1 flushing flocks of blackbird species as it flew
Northern Harrier, 1

Newcastle

Northern Shrike, 1 flushed a flock of 60 American Tree Sparrows when it left perch

Jerry P. and Bill H., South Sioux City, NE

Adams Homestead

A foggy, frosty morning snow bike ride around the trails revealed 16 species, all typical for the date and location. One adult Bald Eagle was sighted along the Missouri, a Great Horned Owl was relocated, and Cedar Waxwings and Eastern Bluebirds added some color to the day. I also saw a raccoon hustle from corn stubble to a nearby line of trees along the River Loop.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA

LHAS Bird Hotline Monday, 1 January 2024

*Eastern Bluebird in Stone Park copyright 2024 by Randall D. Williams, used with permission.*

A First Day Walk around Stone Park roads and trails produced 11 species. Most notable were two Golden-crowned Kinglets near the Calumet Shelter and rental cabins.

Randy W., Sioux City, IA