* Georgia statewide
* January 28, 2003
* GAGA0301.28

- Birds Reported

Long-tailed Duck
Surf Scoter
Pacific Loon
Red-breasted Merganser
Common Goldeneye
Whimbrel
Long-billed Curlew
Redhead
Lapland Longspur
Allen’s Hummingbird
Calliope Hummingbird
American Bittern

-Transcript

hotline: Georgia Rare Bird Alert
date: February 2, 2003
number: 770-493-8862
to report: 770-493-8862 or lambertsewell@mindspring.com
coverage: Statewide
compiled: January 28, 2003 (7:28pm)
compiler: Jeff Sewell
transcriber: James F. Flynn, Jr.

The following is the transcription of the Georgia Rare Bird Alert (RBA) Tuesday evening telephone report, January 28, 2003. The RBA is a service of the Georgia Ornithological Society. Jeff Sewell is the voice of the RBA.

Highlights of this report include four LONG-TAILED DUCKS, a PACIFIC LOON, a SURF SCOTER, a male REDHEAD, a male RED-BREASTED MERGANSER and five COMMON GOLDENEYE today at Plant Wansley on the Carroll/Heard Co. line; AMERICAN BITTERN continues through today at South Peachtree Creek Nature Preserve, Dekalb Co.; LAPLAND LONGSPURS continue up to at least yesterday in Bartow Co. at the Heritage Baptist Church; ALLEN’S HUMMINGBIRD and CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD continue through the weekend in Athens; a CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD continues in Lilburn, Gwinnett Co.; a LONG-BILLED CURLEW behind the Jekyll Island Visitors Center and four SURF SCOTERS off of the north end of Jekyll Island this weekend.

Jim Flynn and Earl Horn reported that the four LONG-TAILED DUCKS at Plant Wansley, first reported yesterday by Rick Waldrop, were seen again today. Five COMMON GOLDENEYES, one SURF SCOTER, one male REDHEAD, the PACIFIC LOON, and a male RED-BREASTED MERGANSER were also seen at the Plant. The LONG-TAILED DUCKS were in the ash pond, which is on the southwest side of the dam. Directions: from Atlanta, head west on I-20 to exit 34 (GA 5). Head south on GA 5 until you get to the community of Lowell (you will pass through Douglas Co., into Carroll Co., through the community of Whitesburg and its funky roundabout before you get to Lowell, close to 30 miles I would guess). In Lowell, turn left onto Liberty Church Rd. I believe there is a sign for Plant Wansley and a 4-way stop at this corner. Follow Liberty Church Rd. to Plant Wansley; you will see the reservoir on the right before you see the driveway on the right for the guard shack. Pass under the railroad bridge to the first right, the road that leads to the guard shack. Plant Wansley contains the two large lakes pictured in DeLorme on page 25, grid F & G 6 on the Carroll & Heard Co. lines. Once you get to the plant go to the main gate and tell the guard you are a "birdwatcher" and then he will give you a waiver to sign. You may have to fill out some additional information. Vehicles are subject to search so don't enter with a firearm, ammo, or alcohol in the vehicle. You will receive a visitor's pass. Drive straight past the guard station until this road meets another paved road. Take a right and proceed over the railroad tracks.

The AMERICAN BITTERN continues for the third day at South Peachtree Creek Nature Preserve in Dekalb Co. Directions: If you are approaching on I-285, exit onto the Stone Mountain Expressway (US 78) proceeding toward Decatur. The expressway will merge into Lawrenceville Highway near North DeKalb Mall. You will cross over South Peachtree Creek. Go through the traffic signal at the QuikTrip, and take the next right onto Harrington Drive. Go about 3/4 mile and turn right onto Wood Trail Lane. As Wood Trail Lane curves to the left, park and walk out into the preserve on the path that leads to the boardwalk. Be careful in parking that you do not impede traffic flow on the street. [DeLorme: p. 26, grid A-4]

Bill Lotz reported that two of the LAPLAND LONGSPURS remained on the lawn in front of the Heritage Baptist Church in Bartow Co. yesterday. These birds were discovered Sunday by Bruce Dralle and Traci Brown. Directions: From I-75 north of Atlanta, take the Emerson exit (Exit 283). Turn left and proceed back over I-75 and under US-41. Just as you pass the US-41 overpass, turn left on Old Alabama Rd. Proceed along Old Alabama Rd. through Emerson to Douthit Ferry Rd. Turn right on Douthit Ferry Rd., over the Etowah River, past Etowah Mounds Rd. on the right and watch for Heritage Baptist Church on the right. [DeLorme: p. 19, grid E-8,9]

A LONG-BILLED CURLEW and two WHIMBRELS were seen Sunday by Jeff Sewell and Carol Lambert behind the Jekyll Island Visitors Center on the Jekyll Island Causeway. Timing is crucial to viewing these birds and a receding tide is the best. [DeLorme: p. 63, grid G-7; Birding Georgia: p. 203]

top

* Georgia statewide
* January 26, 2003
* GAGA0301.26

- Birds Reported

Whimbrel
Long-billed Curlew
Black-bellied Plover
Dunlin
Western Sandpiper
Short-billed Dowitcher
Long-billed Dowitcher
Redhead
Surf Scoter
Black Scoter
Lesser Scaup
Lapland Longspur
Horned Lark
Common Goldeneye
Rough-legged Hawk
Allen's Hummingbird
Calliope Hummingbird
Black-chinned Hummingbird
American Bittern
Ross's Goose
Snow Goose
Greater White-fronted Goose
Canada Goose
Common Ground-Dove
Tree Swallow
Baltimore Oriole

-Transcript

hotline: Georgia Rare Bird Alert
date: January 27, 2003
number: 770-493-8862
to report: 770-493-8862 or lambertsewell@mindspring.com
coverage: Statewide
compiled: January 26, 2003 (7:40pm)
compiler: Jeff Sewell
transcriber: James F. Flynn, Jr.

The following is the transcription of the Georgia Rare Bird Alert (RBA) Sunday evening telephone report, January 26, 2003. The RBA is a service of the Georgia Ornithological Society. Jeff Sewell is the voice of the RBA.

Highlights of this report include two WHIMBRELS and a LONG-BILLED CURLEW observed yesterday behind the visitors center on the Jekyll Island Causeway; two LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS at the waterslide area on Jekyll I.; four SURF SCOTERS (with BLACK SCOTERS and LESSER SCAUP) off of the north end of Jekyll I.; from St. Simons Island, a male REDHEAD; GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE at several locations (Statesboro, Bulloch Co.; Floyd Co.; and Ila, Madison Co.); a ROSS'S GOOSE in Floyd Co.; a ROSS'S GOOSE near Ila, Madison Co.; LAPLAND LONGSPURS near Cartersville, Bartow Co.; a female COMMON GOLDENEYE at Phinizy Swamp Nature Park, Augusta; a report of a ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK in Floyd Co.; an AMERICAN BITTERN at the South Peachtree Creek Nature Preserve, Dekalb Co.; a CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD and an ALLEN'S HUMMINGBIRD continue in a yard in Athens; and a BLACK-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD continues in Athens.

Carol Lambert and Jeff Sewell report that a LONG-BILLED CURLEW continues at least through Saturday behind the Jekyll Island Visitors Center on the Jekyll I. Causeway. Two WHIMBRELS were also seen in this area. A scope is essential, as the birds can be quite far off. The best chance of observing these birds is on a receding tide. Lots of shorebirds, mostly BLACK-BELLIED PLOVER, DUNLIN, WESTERN SANDPIPERS, and SHORT-BILLED DOWITCHERS, can be seen at this location if you hit the tide right. [DeLorme: p. 63, grid G-7; Birding Georgia: p. 203]

Jeff also reports two LONG-BILLED DOWITCHERS at the waterslide yesterday on Jekyll I. [DeLorme: p. 63, grid G-7; Birding Georgia: p. 203]

The male REDHEAD, first reported last weekend by Traci Brown and Bruce Dralle, continues on St. Simons Island. As you cross over the causeway onto St. Simons I., go to the main intersection and turn right. On the left there will be a pond near the golf course. The REDHEAD was among a flock of LESSER SCAUP. [DeLorme: p. 63, grid F-8; Birding Georgia: p. 196]

Bruce Dralle discovered LAPLAND LONGSPURS feeding in front of the Heritage Baptist Church yesterday in Bartow Co. They continued to be seen through today. Two six have been reported among a flock of HORNED LARKS at various times. Directions: From I-75 north of Atlanta, take the Emerson exit (Exit 283). Turn left and proceed back over I-75 and under US-41. Just as you pass the US-41 overpass, turn left on Old Alabama Rd. Proceed along Old Alabama Rd. through Emerson to Douthit Ferry Rd. Turn right on Douthit Ferry Rd., over the Etowah River, past Etowah Mounds Rd. on the right and watch for Heritage Baptist Church on the right. [DeLorme: p. 19, grid E-8,9]

Ann Waters reported a female COMMON GOLDENEYE at Phinizy Swamp Nature Park yesterday. [DeLorme: p. 31, grid G-7]

Dan Roper reported a ROUGH-LEGGED HAWK along Floyd Springs Rd., Floyd Co. on Friday. From the intersection of Floyd Springs Rd. and GA 156, head three miles north and look for a field on the east side of the road.

Jim Flynn and Earl Horn reported today that the CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD and the ALLEN'S HUMMINGBIRD are still visiting the yard of Walter and Emily Sanders in Athens. Contact the Sanders at 706-543-0519 to set up a time to see these birds.

There is also a CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD still visiting a feeder in Lilburn.

An AMERICAN BITTERN was reported by Dave Butler yesterday at the South Peachtree Creek Nature Preserve, Dekalb Co. [DeLorme: p. 26, grid A-4]

Bill Harbin reported a ROSS'S GOOSE, three SNOW GEESE and a GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE with CANADA GEESE in Floyd Co. today. Directions: From the intersection of the Rome Bypass and Bells Ferry Rd., head north on Bells Ferry Rd. to Old Bells Ferry Rd. Head north on Old Bells Ferry Rd. 1/10 of a mile to a pond on the left. Look for the geese here, but if they are not here, return to the intersection of Bells Ferry Rd. and Old Bells Ferry Rd. and head north 4/10 of a mile on Bells Ferry Rd. Look for the geese in a pond in this area. [DeLorme: p. 19, grid B-6]

Jim Flynn and Earl Horn reported that the ROSS'S GOOSE continues near Ila, Madison Co. They also reported GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE was also seen in here today. [DeLorme: p. 22, grid D-3]

Gina Zimmerman found five GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GEESE near Statesboro on Wednesday. Gina and Helen Lovell saw them again yesterday. Directions: From the intersection of GA 46 and US 301, head east on GA 46 a little less than two miles and look for Jack Kennedy Rd. on the left. Just a bit further on the right is a continuation of Jack Kennedy Rd. Turn right onto this road (CR 229). Go about 100 feet and this road dead ends at Hawkshaw Land. Turn right here. As soon as you turn, on left is a pasture pond. The geese may be seen here with CANADA GEESE. Jeff Sewell and Carol Lambert also found a BALTIMORE ORIOLE and many COMMON GROUND-DOVES in the pecan grove in this area, and TREE SWALLOWS over the pond. [DeLorme: p. 46, grid E-3; Birding Georgia: p. 166]

top

* Georgia statewide
* January 21, 2003
* GAGA0301.21

- Birds Reported

Allen’s Hummingbird
Calliope Hummingbird
Rufous Hummingbird
Baltimore Oriole
Bald Eagle
Bonaparte’s Gull
Greater Scaup
Pacific Loon
Vermilion Flycatcher
Western Kingbird
Ring-billed Gull
Herring Gull
American Wigeon

-Transcript

hotline: Georgia Rare Bird Alert
date: January 26, 2003
number: 770-493-8862
to report: 770-493-8862 or lambertsewell@mindspring.com
coverage: Statewide
compiled: January 21, 2003 (7:30am)
compiler: Jeff Sewell
transcriber: James F. Flynn, Jr.

The following is the transcription of the Georgia Rare Bird Alert (RBA) Tuesday morning telephone report, January 21, 2003. The RBA is a service of the Georgia Ornithological Society. Jeff Sewell is the voice of the RBA.

Highlights of this report include a 2nd year male ALLEN’S HUMMINGBIRD and 2nd year male CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD in the same yard in Athens; BALTIMORE ORIOLE at Warner Robbins; BALD EAGLE and five BONAPARTE’S GULLS at Lake Spivey, Clayton Co.; GREATER SCAUP along the Chattahoochee River, Fulton Co.; repeat reports from Sunday include PACIFIC LOON at Plant Wansley, Carroll Co.; VERMILION FLYCATCHER in Sumter Co.; and a WESTERN KINGBIRD on St. Simons Island.

Rusty Trump reported that he banded a 2nd year male ALLEN’S HUMMINGBIRD and a 2nd year male CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD in the same yard in Athens yesterday. The homeowners, Walter and Emily Sanders, request that birders call 706-543-0519 first to arrange a time to see the birds. Directions: Traveling east on GA316 towards Athens until the road becomes Epps Bridge. Once it becomes Epps Bridge you will want to make a right on Timothy Road. Go about a mile and make a right on Xavier Drive. The Sanders live in the 3rd house on the left.

Rusty also mentioned that he banded a RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD in Buford yesterday.

Jerry Amerson reported that a homeowner in Warner Robbins has a BALTIMORE ORIOLE visiting his feeder.

Chuck Saleeby reported that yesterday he observed three GREATER SCAUP, lots of RING-BILLED GULLS, and one HERRING GULL in the Chattahoochee River along Azalea Dr. in Fulton Co. These birds were observed at the park/playground/boat ramp area. He also observed 24 GADWALL and four AMERICAN WIGEON near the Chattahoochee Nature Center. [DeLorme: p. 20, grid G-3; Birding Georgia: p. 79]

Two AMERICAN WIGEON continue at E. L. Huie Land Application Facility, located south of Jonesboro in Clayton Co. [DeLorme: p. 26, grid F-3; Birding Georgia: p. 85]

From Lake Spivey on the Clayton/Henry Co. line, Beth Parker reported a BALD EAGLE flying over the lake and five BONAPARTE’S GULLS. Lake Spivey is private and difficult to bird, as it is completely surrounded by private homes. A little piece of the lake may be viewed from Blackhall Rd., which runs between Walt Stephens Rd. and Jodeco Rd. in Henry Co. [DeLorme: p. 26, grid E-4]

top

* Georgia statewide
* January 19, 2003
* GAGA0301.19

- Birds Reported

Pacific Loon
Vermilion Flycatcher
Western Kingbird
Greater White-fronted Goose
Baltimore Oriole
Calliope Hummingbird
Common Goldeneye
Horned Grebe
Ring-billed Gull
Herring Gull
Bufflehead
Common Loon
Canada Goose
Purple Finch
Black-and-white Warbler
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Fox Sparrow

-Transcript

hotline: Georgia Rare Bird Alert
date: January 26, 2003
number: 770-493-8862
to report: 770-493-8862 or lambertsewell@mindspring.com
coverage: Statewide
compiled: January 19, 2003 (7:34pm)
compiler: Jeff Sewell
transcriber: James F. Flynn, Jr.

The following is the transcription of the Georgia Rare Bird Alert (RBA) Sunday evening telephone report, January 19, 2003. The RBA is a service of the Georgia Ornithological Society. Jeff Sewell is the voice of the RBA.

Highlights of this report include the PACIFIC LOON, which was seen today at Plant Wansley, Carroll Co.; the VERMILION FLYCATCHER in Sumter Co. was seen again today; a WESTERN KINGBIRD was seen today at St. Simons Island; repeat reports of a GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE and Oxbow Meadows, Columbus; BALTIMORE ORIOLES in Augusta; and there have been no recent reports of the 2nd year male CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD in Lilburn in 1/16.

The PACIFIC LOON continues at Plant Wansley on the Carroll Co./Heard Co. line. It was seen today by Jeff Sewell and Carol Lambert. Two male COMMON GOLDENEYES, HORNED GREBES, lots of SCAUP (presumed to be mostly Lesser Scaup), a few RING-BILLED GULLS, one HERRING GULL, BUFFLEHEAD and ten or twelve COMMON LOONS. Birding from any prohibited area will result in a permanent ban from the plant. Directions: from Atlanta, head west on I-20 to exit 34 (GA 5). Head south on GA 5 until you get to the community of Lowell (you will pass through Douglas Co., into Carroll Co., through the community of Whitesburg and its funky roundabout before you get to Lowell, close to 30 miles I would guess). In Lowell, turn left onto Liberty Church Rd. I believe there is a sign for Plant Wansley and a 4-way stop at this corner. Follow Liberty Church Rd. to Plant Wansley; you will see the reservoir on the right before you see the driveway on the right for the guard shack. Pass under the railroad bridge to the first right, the road that leads to the guard shack. Plant Wansley contains the two large lakes pictured in DeLorme on page 25, grid F & G 6 on the Carroll & Heard Co. lines. Once you get to the plant go to the main gate and tell the guard you are a "birdwatcher" and then he will give you a waiver to sign. You may have to fill out some additional information. Vehicles are subject to search so don't enter with a firearm, ammo, or alcohol in the vehicle. You will receive a visitor's pass. Drive straight past the guard station until this road meets another paved road. Take a right and proceed over the railroad tracks.

Bruce Dralle and Traci Brown reported seeing the adult male VERMILION FLYCATCHER in Sumter Co. today. This bird was first reported on 1/4 by Phil Hardy and Tyndall Chapman. Directions: From Cordele/I-75, take U.S. Hwy 280 West towards Americus. Turn left onto Mask Road after passing the Brickyard Plantation Golf Course. Cross over the intersection with Brady Road staying on Mask Road. Turn left onto Old Hooks Mill Road (dirt) between a sod farm and a stand of pine trees. When you crest a slight hill and see Lake Philema on your left begin looking for the irrigation pump and step-van as your landmarks for locating the bird. [DeLorme: p. 49, grid B-10]

Lydia Thompson reported a WESTERN KINGBIRD on St. Simons Island by the airport. The bird was found on a fence near the intersection of Retreat Rd. and Kings Way.  [DeLorme: p. 63, grid F-8; Birding Georgia: p. 196]

BALTIMORE ORIOLES have been found at several locations recently, including four in Brad Bergstrom’s yard in Valdosta, along with two PURPLE FINCHES a couple of days ago.

Ann Waters reported an adult male and first year female BALTIMORE ORIOLE yesterday at the Merry Brothers Brickyard Ponds behind the fish shack. She also reported a BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER, BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER, FOX SPARROW and lots of ducks.  [DeLorme: p. 31, grid F-7; Birding Georgia: p. 122]

Yesterday, Walt Chambers reported a GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE at Oxbow Meadows on the south side of Columbus. It was first seen in the application field near the water works north of Oxbow Meadows. Directions: Head north past the Oxbow Meadows Learning Center on South Lumpkin Rd. and continue on past the golf course to the first left. Turn left and continue to the large field. The bird was seen with CANADA GEESE at this location, but eventually they flew towards a lake near the golf course.  [DeLorme: p. 40, grid E-2]

The CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD is assumed to be still visiting a feeder at the home of Ran Wilson in Lilburn. Call 770-921-2238 to set up a time to look for this bird and directions.

top

* Georgia statewide
* January 18, 2003
* GAGA0301.18

- Birds Reported

Greater White-fronted Goose
Canada Goose
Baltimore Oriole
Black-and-white Warbler
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher
Fox Sparrow
Calliope Hummingbird
American Wigeon
Mallard
Northern Shoveler
Green-winged Teal
Ruddy Duck
Gadwall
Hooded Merganser
Bufflehead
Ring-necked Duck
Lesser Scaup
Pied-billed Grebe
Bonaparte’s Gull
American Black Duck

-Transcript

hotline: Georgia Rare Bird Alert
date: January 19, 2003
number: 770-493-8862
to report: 770-493-8862 or lambertsewell@mindspring.com
coverage: Statewide
compiled: January 18, 2003 (7:46pm)
compiler: Jeff Sewell
transcriber: James F. Flynn, Jr.

The following is the transcription of the Georgia Rare Bird Alert (RBA) Saturday evening telephone report, January 18, 2003. The RBA is a service of the Georgia Ornithological Society. Jeff Sewell is the voice of the RBA.

Highlights of this report include a GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE in Columbus; two BALTIMORE ORIOLES, BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER, BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER, and FOX SPARROW at the Merry Brothers Brickyard Ponds, Augusta, today; and an AMERICAN BLACK DUCK and two BONAPARTE’S GULLS at Sweetwater Creek State Park today. There have been no reports of the CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD in Lilburn, and it has been reported that the Vermilion Flycatcher in Sumter Co. was not seen yesterday.

Ann Waters of Augusta reported two BALTIMORE ORIOLES (an adult male and a first year female) at the Merry Brothers Brickyard Ponds today. They were observed just behind the fish shack (the place where you ask permission to bird the property). BLACK-AND-WHITE WARBLER, BLUE-GRAY GNATCATCHER, and FOX SPARROW were also observed, as well as over 1000 ducks, including AMERICAN WIGEON, GADWALL, RING-NECKED DUCK, RUDDY DUCK, MALLARD, LESSER SCAUP, GREEN-WINGED TEAL, NORTHERN SHOVELER, BUFFLEHEAD, HOODED MERGANSER, and two AMERICAN BLACK DUCKS. [DeLorme: p. 31, grid F-7; Birding Georgia: p. 122]

Jeff Sewell reports that an AMERICAN BLACK DUCK was seen today at Sweetwater Creek State Park, Douglas Co. Two BONAPARTE’S GULLS, HOODED MERGANSERS, RUDDY DUCKS, MALLARDS, RING-NECKED DUCKS, a SCAUP sp., PIED-BILLED GREBES, two GADWALL, and two GREEN-WINGED TEAL were also seen today. [DeLorme: p. 25, grid B-10; Birding Georgia: p. 67]

It is assumed that the second year male CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD continues at the home of Ran Wilson in Lilburn, Gwinnett Co. Contact Ran at 770-921-2238 to set up an appointment to see the bird.

Please report any hummingbirds that have not yet been banded to the Rare Bird Alert.

Walt Chambers reported a GREATER WHITE-FRONTED GOOSE mixed in with some CANADA GEESE at Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center on the south side of Columbus along Lumpkin Rd. The goose was first seen in the north application field. The bird later moved to a lake just next to the golf course. [DeLorme: p. 40, grid E-2]

top

* Georgia statewide
* January 16, 2003
* GAGA0301.16

- Birds Reported

Calliope Hummingbird
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Black-chinned Hummingbird
Snow Goose
Dunlin
American Wigeon
Mallard
Northern Shoveler
Green-winged Teal
Ruddy Duck
Gadwall
Hooded Merganser
Bufflehead
Ring-necked Duck
Lesser Scaup
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Sandhill Crane
Common Goldeneye
Baltimore Oriole

-Transcript

hotline: Georgia Rare Bird Alert
date: January 19, 2003
number: 770-493-8862
to report: 770-493-8862 or lambertsewell@mindspring.com
coverage: Statewide
compiled: January 16, 2003 (10:15pm)
compiler: Jeff Sewell
transcriber: James F. Flynn, Jr.

The following is the transcription of the Georgia Rare Bird Alert (RBA) Thursday evening telephone report, January 16, 2003. The RBA is a service of the Georgia Ornithological Society. Jeff Sewell is the voice of the RBA.

Highlights of this report include a CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD banded today in Lilburn, Gwinnett Co.; a RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD was banded today in Chamblee, Dekalb Co. [no further details were reported on the tape]; and a SNOW GOOSE, DUNLIN and two AMERICAN WIGEON continue at E. L. Huie Land Application Facility, Clayton Co.

Rusty Trump reported today that he banded a second year male CALLIOPE HUMMINGBIRD in Lilburn today. The homeowner, Ran Wilson, has graciously agreed to allow observers to see this bird from his kitchen. Please call 770-921-2238 to set up an appointment. Directions: From the I-85 Beaver Ruin Rd. exit, head east toward Lilburn; proceed 2.5 miles and look on your left for Burns Rd. Turn left on Burns Rd., go a short distance (about 0.1 miles) and look for Shady Dr. on the left. Turn left on Shady Dr., go 0.25 miles and watch for Beaver Ln. on the left. Turn left on Beaver Ln., and head to the end of the road. On right watch for Ran Wilson’s house, 952 Beaver Ln.

Carol Lambert reports that a SNOW GOOSE continues for a second day E. L. Huie Land Application Facility, Clayton Co. Two AMERICAN WIGEON, MALLARD, GREEN-WINGED TEAL, LESSER SCAUP, RING-NECKED DUCK, NORTHERN SHOVELER, BUFFLEHEAD, HOODED MERGANSER, GADWALL, RUDDY DUCK and one DUNLIN (in the northwest pond, Pond A) may also be seen at the ponds.  [DeLorme: p. 26, grid F-3; Birding Georgia: p. 85]

There have been no further reports of the Vermilion Flycatchers in either Baker Co. or Sumter Co., or of the Pacific Loon at Plant Wansley, Carroll Co.

SANDHILL CRANES continue to be seen moving through the state.

Repeats from the Sunday night (1/12/03) report:

BLACK-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD in Athens; BALTIMORE ORIOLES at several locations; ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAKS appear to be wintering at Skidaway Is.; and COMMON GOLDENEYE at Bobolink Lake, Callaway Gardens.

top

* Georgia statewide
* January 12, 2003
* GAGA0301.12

- Birds Reported

Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Sandhill Crane
Cave Swallow
Common Goldeneye
Greater Scaup
Baltimore Oriole
Redhead
Northern Pintail
American Black Duck
Vermilion Flycatcher
Dunlin
Rusty Blackbird
Northern Shoveler
Green-winged Teal
Blue-winged Teal
Hooded Merganser
Sora
King Rail
Virginia Rail
Bufflehead
Ring-necked Duck
Lesser Scaup

-Transcript

hotline: Georgia Rare Bird Alert
date: January 14, 2003
number: 770-493-8862
to report: 770-493-8862 or lambertsewell@mindspring.com
coverage: Statewide
compiled: January 12, 2003 (9:34pm)
compiler: Jeff Sewell
transcriber: James F. Flynn, Jr.

The following is the transcription of the Georgia Rare Bird Alert (RBA) Sunday evening telephone report, January 12, 2003. The RBA is a service of the Georgia Ornithological Society. Jeff Sewell is the voice of the RBA.

Highlights of this report include ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAKS at two locations; SANDHILL CRANES still moving south; a CAVE SWALLOW in South Carolina just across the state line; a COMMON GOLDENEYE continues at Callaway Gardens; GREATER SCAUP at Lake Horton, Fayette Co.; BALTIMORE ORIOLES in three places around the state; REDHEADS at Bear Creek Reservoir, Jackson Co.; DUNLIN at two locations; NORTHERN PINTAIL and AMERICAN BLACK DUCK at Phinizy Swamp; and VERMILION FLYCATCHERS at two locations. There have been no further reports of the Western Tanager in Cobb Co., nor of the Pacific Loon, Eared Grebe and Surf Scoter at Plant Wansley, Carroll Co.

Eric Beohm reports a ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAK coming to a feeder in Lamar Co. This report is about a week old.

Russ Wigh reports three or four ROSE-BREASTED GROSBEAKS coming to a feeder on Skidaway Island as of Saturday.

A CAVE SWALLOW was seen on the Savannah Christmas Bird Count at the Savannah NWR, which is in South Carolina, on January 4. Just a reminder for Georgia birders to check flocks of Tree Swallows that they encounter on the coast.

Brad Bergstrom reports an adult male BALTIMORE ORIOLE coming to his feeder in Valdosta, GA, as of yesterday.

The RBA also received an email of an adult male BALTIMORE ORIOLE coming to a feeder in Darien.

An adult male BALTIMORE ORIOLE is also coming to a feeder in Lawrenceville, Gwinnett Co.

Earl Horn reported two REDHEADS at the Bear Creek Reservoir, Jackson Co., on Saturday. Directions from Athens: go north at the Tallassee Rd exit of the Athens perimeter loop highway. Follow Tallassee to its end at Hwy 330 and turn left. The lake will be on the left in 2-3 miles, there is a pull-off on the left just before the highway makes a sharp bend to the right at the lakeside. [DeLorme: p. 22, grid G-1]

Jeff Sewell observed a DUNLIN at the EL Huie Land Application Facility, Clayton Co., GA. [DeLorme: p. 26, grid F-3; Birding Georgia: p. 85]

Bruce Dralle and Traci Brown reported four DUNLIN southwest of Cartersville along Taff Rd., Bartow Co. [DeLorme: p. 19, grid E-8]

Anne Waters reports that a field trip to Phinizy Swamp yesterday in Augusta produced AMERICAN BLACK DUCK, NORTHERN PINTAIL and RUSTY BLACKBIRDS in the swamp area just past the parking lot (Butler Creek), and NORTHERN SHOVELER, BLUE-WINGED TEAL, GREEN-WINGED TEAL, HOODED MERGANSER, and SORA, KING and VIRGINIA RAILS. [DeLorme: p. 31, grid G-7]

SANDHILL CRANES continue to be reported moving south through the state.

The female COMMON GOLDENEYE previously reported at Callaway Gardens, Harris Co., was seen again today by Jim Flynn and Earl Horn on Bobolink Lake. Entrance fee to Callaway Gardens is about $13 per person. [DeLorme: p. 32, grid G-3]

Jim Flynn and Earl Horn also reported a large flock of RING-NECKED DUCKS, some BUFFLEHEAD and a few LESSER and GREATER SCAUPS at Lake Horton, Fayette Co., today. Lake Horton is located at the end of Antioch Rd., which is off of GA 92 south of Fayetteville. [DeLorme: p. 26, grid H-2; Birding Georgia: p. 91]

It is assumed that the two VERMILION FLYCATCHERS are still in southwest Georgia, one south of Albany and one near Americus.

top

* Georgia statewide
* January 9, 2003
* GAGA0301.09

- Birds Reported

Vermilion Flycatcher
Western Tanager
Black-chinned Hummingbird
Short-eared Owl
Canvasback
Baltimore Oriole
Pacific Loon
Eared Grebe
Whooping Crane
Red-breasted Nuthatch
White-crowned Sparrow
Pomarine Jaeger
Sora
Reddish Egret

-Transcript

hotline: Georgia Rare Bird Alert
date: January 10, 2003
number: 770-493-8862
to report: 770-493-8862 or lambertsewell@mindspring.com
coverage: Statewide
compiled: January 9, 2003 (8:11pm)
compiler: Jeff Sewell
transcriber: James F. Flynn, Jr.

The following is the transcription of the Georgia Rare Bird Alert (RBA) Thursday evening telephone report, January 9, 2003. The RBA is a service of the Georgia Ornithological Society. Jeff Sewell is the voice of the RBA.

Highlights of this report include an adult male VERMILION FLYCATCHER near Americus, Sumter Co.; a first year male VERMILION FLYCATCHER in Baker Co.; WESTERN TANAGER in Cobb Co.; a female BLACK-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD was banded on Wednesday in Athens; SHORT-EARED OWLS in Cobb, Sumter Co., GA; BALTIMORE ORIOLE in Gwinnett Co.; PACIFIC LOON and EARED GREBE at Plant Wansley, Carroll Co.; and a WHOOPING CRANE associated with Operation:Migration has apparently taken up residence in Georgia with a flock of SANDHILL CRANES.

Another VERMILION FLYCATCHER, this one an adult male, was discovered last Saturday afternoon in a private pasture adjacent to the southwest shoreline of Lake Philema near Americus, Sumter Co., by Phil Hardy. Directions: From Cordele/I-75, take U.S. Hwy 280 West towards Americus. Turn left onto Mask Road after passing the Brickyard Plantation Golf Course. Cross over the intersection with Brady Road staying on Mask Road. Turn left onto Old Hooks Mill Road (dirt) between a sod farm and a stand of pine trees. When you crest a slight hill and see Lake Philema on your left begin looking for the irrigation pump and step-van as your landmarks for locating the bird. [DeLorme: p. 49, grid B-10]

Laura Brown reported that the adult male WESTERN TANAGER that intermittently visited her feeder at the end of last year returned briefly Thursday morning. Earl Horn attempted to locate the bird Thursday evening [and Friday morning] but was unsuccessful. Please contact the RBA (770) 493-8862 for directions to this site.

Rusty Trump reported that he banded a female BLACK-CHINNED HUMMINGBIRD in Athens at the home of the Kuppersmiths. They welcome visitors, but please contact them at (706) 316-3345 to arrange a time to view the bird.

The first year male VERMILION FLYCATCHER in Baker Co. was still present as of this past weekend according to Jim Flynn and Earl Horn.

Jim also reported that he and Earl observed five SHORT-EARED OWLS at the Cobb owl fields along Cobb Cheek Rd., Cobb, Sumter Co. on Sunday. [DeLorme: p. 50, grid B-2; Birding Georgia: p. 141]

Mark Freeman reported a female CANVASBACK from Sandy Creek Park in Athens. This bird was observed on Sunday. Sandy Creek Park is on Holman Rd off Hwy 441, about 3 miles north of the Athens perimeter. [DeLorme: p. 22, grid F-3]

Notable birds reported on Glynn Co’s. CBC held on Saturday included POMARINE JAEGER, SORA and REDDISH EGRET on Jekyll I.

The TUNDRA SWANS at the Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center, Jasper Co., have apparently departed. [DeLorme: p. 27, grid F-9]

The PACIFIC LOON and EARED GREBE continue at Plant Wansley, Carroll Co. [DeLorme: p. 25, grid F,G-6]

Earl Horn reported nine RED-BREASTED NUTHATCHES along Burrells Ford Rd. in Rabun Co. on Saturday. [DeLorme: p. 16, grid A/B-5; Birding Georgia: p. 59]

Earl also reported about 30 WHITE-CROWNED SPARROWS at a location in White Co. Please contact the RBA (770) 493-8862 for directions to this site.

top

* Georgia statewide
* January 4, 2003
* GAGA0301.04

- Birds Reported

Sandhill Crane
Bald Eagle
Ruby-throated Hummingbird
Common Goldeneye
Baltimore Oriole
Tennessee Warbler
Purple Gallinule
Pacific Loon
White-winged Scoter
Long-billed Curlew
Short-eared Owl
Vermilion Flycatcher

-Transcript

hotline: Georgia Rare Bird Alert
date: January 6, 2003
number: 770-493-8862
to report: 770-493-8862 or lambertsewell@mindspring.com
coverage: Statewide
compiled: January 4, 2003 (9:04pm)
compiler: Jeff Sewell
transcriber: James F. Flynn, Jr.

The following is the transcription of the Georgia Rare Bird Alert (RBA) Saturday evening telephone report, January 4, 2003. The RBA is a service of the Georgia Ornithological Society. Jeff Sewell is the voice of the RBA.

Highlights of this report include SANDHILL CRANES and BALD EAGLE; a RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD on the coast; COMMON GOLDENEYE at Callaway Gardens; SHORT-EARED OWL in Spalding Co.; a BALTIMORE ORIOLE in Gwinnett Co.; TENNESSEE WARBLERS in Cobb Co. and Gwinnett Co.; a PURPLE GALLINULE on the coast; PACIFIC LOON at Plant Wansley; WHITE-WINGED SCOTER at Carters Lake, Murray Co.; LONG-BILLED CURLEW on the Jekyll Island Causeway; and a VERMILLION FLYCATCHER in Baker Co.

On Saturday, observers in Clayton Co. saw around 400 SANDHILL CRANES, with approximately 300 or so in four or five flocks, headed south in the vicinity of, but west of, J. W. Smith Reservoir in south Clayton Co. A flock was also seen earlier in the day near Lake Shamrock in the E. L. Huie Land Application Facility. An adult BALD EAGLE was also observed at the J. W. Smith Reservoir. Directions: From the intersection of Tara Blvd (US 19/US 41) and McDonough Rd., head west on McDonough Rd. to a traffic light at Panhandle Rd. Turn right on Panhandle Rd. and proceed for four or five miles until you see a large reservoir on either side of the road. There is a fire station on the southeast side of the reservoir where you can park. [DeLorme: p. 26, grid G-3; Birding Georgia: p. 91]

Walt Chambers reported a COMMON GOLDENEYE Saturday, as well as several more common species of duck, at Mountain Creek Lake at Callaway Gardens on the Callaway Gardens CBC.

Doris Cohrs reported a female RUBY-THROATED HUMMINGBIRD at her feeder in McIntosh Co.

Brenda Kealty of Snellville reports that she has had an adult male BALTIMORE ORIOLE coming to her feeder for over two weeks. Leave a message on the RBA (770-493-8862) if you would like contact information to see this bird.

Steve Slaton reported a TENNESSEE WARBLER in his yard Friday in Lawrenceville, Gwinnett Co.

Bob Zaremba reports that a TENNESSEE WARBLER continues in his yard in east Cobb Co.

The PACIFIC LOON at Plant Wansley, Carroll Co., was last reported on 12/31 [Transcriber note: This bird was also observed on 1/1]. Please contact the RBA if you go to find this bird, whether you see it or not. Directions: Directions to the area : from Atlanta, head west on I-20 to exit 34 (GA 5). Head south on GA 5 until you get to the community of Lowell (you will pass through Douglas Co., into Carroll Co., through the community of Whitesburg and its funky roundabout before you get to Lowell, close to 30 miles I would guess). In Lowell, turn left onto Liberty Church Rd. I believe there is a sign for Plant Wansley and a 4-way stop at this corner. Follow Liberty Church Rd. to Plant Wansley; you will see the reservoir on the right before you see the driveway on the right for the guard shack. Pass under the railroad bridge to the first right, the road that leads to the guard shack. Plant Wansley contains the two large lakes pictured in DeLorme on page 25, grid F & G 6 on the Carroll & Heard Co. lines. Once you get to the plant go to the main gate and tell the guard you are a "birdwatcher" and then he will give you a waiver to sign. You may have to fill out some additional information. Vehicles are subject to search so don't enter with a firearm, ammo, or alcohol in the vehicle. You will receive a visitor's pass. Drive straight past the guard station until this road meets another paved road. Take a right and proceed over the railroad tracks. Take the first gravel road on the right after the tracks. This will take you to your first scanning point. After scanning here, keep going down this road, and you will cross another dam. After scanning here, keep going down this gravel/dirt road and every time you come to a fork in the road go to your right. You will drive through a creek and up a hill. There will be an open gate leading to a picnic area. If they happen to close the gate for some reason, just park and walk. This picnic area offers the best look at the lake." [DeLorme: p. 25, grid F,G-6]

Russ Wigh of Skidaway Island reported a PURPLE GALLINULE on 1/1 Delegal Island.

A WHITE-WINGED SCOTER continues at Carters Lake at least through Friday, 1/3, according to John Gatchet. Carters Lake is south of Chatsworth just off US 411. [DeLorme: p. 13, grid G-10; Birding Georgia: p. 38]

A LONG-BILLED CURLEW has been seen on and off behind the Visitors Center on the Jekyll Island Causeway. It was last reported on Thursday, 1/2. The best time to check for this bird is during a rising tide. [DeLorme: p. 63, grid G-7; Birding Georgia: p. 203]

Eric Beohm reported a SHORT-EARED OWL flew over his yard in Spalding Co. on Thursday, 1/2.

A VERMILION FLYCATCHER was seen in Baker Co. south of Albany on Dec. 28. Directions: Leave Albany GA to the southwest on GA 62/91, and follow GA 62 (also called Leary Road) to the west (this turn is on DeLorme p 57 A10). The first major intersection is Tarva Road and Eight Mile Road, turn south on Tarva Road (this intersection DeLorme p57 border of A8 and A9). Go south eleven miles to the only large powerline (DeLorme p57 C8). On your right (west side of road), on the north side of the powerline, is the small pig farm.

top

*Georgia statewide
*January 1, 2003
* GAGA030101

Birds reported-

Pacific Loon
Swainson's Hawk (possible)
Surf Scoter
Eared Grebe
Common Goldeneye
Greater Scaup
Lesser Scaup
Northern Pintail
American Black Duck
Bufflehead
Bonaparte's Gull
Herring Gull
Ring-billed Gull
Common Loon
Horned Grebe

hotline: Georgia Rare Bird Alert
date: January 1, 2003 (11:27 PM)
number: 770-493-8862
to report: 770-493-8862 or lambertsewell@mindspring.com
coverage: Statewide
compiled: January 1, 2003 (9:37 AM)
compiler: Jeff Sewell
transcriber: Bob Zaremba

The following is a transcription of the Georgia Rare Bird Alert for Monday, December 24, 2002. The RBA is a service of the Georgia Ornithological Society. To join the Georgia Ornithological Society, send a check to P.O. Box 5825, Valdosta, Ga. 31603. Dues are $20/year.) Jeff Sewell is the voice of the RBA.


As of Tuesday, a PACIFIC LOON continues at Plant Wansley in Carroll County originally reported by Michael Beohm almost two weeks ago. Also reported on Tuesday was an EARED GREBE. Other good birds reported from this location have been SURF SCOTER, COMMON GOLDENEYE, GREATER SCAUP, LESSER SCAUP, NORTHERN PINTAIL, AMERICAN BLACK DUCK, BUFFLEHEAD, BONAPARTE'S GULL, HERRING GULL, RING-BILLED GULL, COMMON LOON and HORNED GREBE. Directions to the area : from Atlanta, head west on I-20 to exit 34 (GA 5). Head south on GA 5 until you get to the community of Lowell (you will pass through Douglas Co., into Carroll Co., through the community of Whitesburg and its funky roundabout before you get to Lowell, close to 30 miles I would guess). In Lowell, turn left onto Liberty Church Rd. I believe there is a sign for Plant Wansley and a 4-way stop at this corner. Follow Liberty Church Rd. to Plant Wansley; you will see the reservoir on the right before you see the driveway on the right for the guard shack. Pass under the railroad bridge to the first right, the road that leads to the guard shack. Plant Wansley contains the two large lakes pictured in DeLorme on page 25, grid F & G 6 on the Carroll & Heard Co. lines. Once you get to the plant go to the main gate and tell the guard you are a "birdwatcher" and then he will give you a waiver to sign. You may have to fill out some additional information. Vehicles are subject to search so don't enter with a firearm, ammo, or alcohol in the vehicle. You will receive a visitor's pass. Drive straight past the guard station until this road meets another paved road. Take a right and proceed over the railroad tracks. Take the first gravel road on the right after the tracks. This will take you to your first scanning point. After scanning here, keep going down this road, and you will cross another dam. After scanning here, keep going down this gravel/dirt road and every time you come to a fork in the road go to your right. You will drive through a creek and up a hill. There will be an open gate leading to a picnic area. If they happen to close the gate for some reason, just park and walk. This picnic area offers the best look at the lake." [DeLorme: p. 25, grid F,G-6]

A possible SWAINSON'S HAWK was reported in the Atlanta area in Dunwoody just outside of I-285 in Dekalb County. The bird was seen at close range for a brief period on Tuesday morning. The bird was seen at the Dunwoody Park (Office Park) on Cotillion Drive which it the access road just north of I-285. The road runs between Chamblee Dunwoody Road and Shallowford Road. From the south, exit at the North Peachtree Road / Shallowford Road exit, and head northwest on Cotillion Drive along I-285 towards Chamblee Dunwoody Road and the office park is on the north (right) side. The bird was seen in the office park.

top

Return to 2003 Rare Bird Alerts