1st Round

2nd Round

16 July 2010
Weisse – Reject, specific identification not established

I don’t feel there is enough detail in the physical description or the description of the vocalizations to eliminate other Empids.  Given the observer’s experience he is likely correct but I’d like to see more details to support a difficult identification like this.

6 September 2010
Cliff Weisse--Reject, specific identification not established

same comments

07-20-2010
Darren Clark--Accept

Plumage and song described well.

12/03/2010
Darren Clark--Accept

same comments as before

07-28-2010
Carlisle--Accept

Sounds convincing but a couple clarifications: the 'che-bec' is the LEFL song, not 'call' (and, though I have no doubt about Dave's ID, it would have been helpful to hear that the song was given repetitively). Also, I'm not sure that an almond-shaped eye-ring is a great fieldmark for this species (at least not nearly as important as the short wings & tail and voice that were mentioned) given that "Western" Flycatchers have a much more prominently almond-shaped eye-ring and that, in my experience, other Empids can show that to the same degree as LEFLs.

09-12-2010
Carlisle--Accept

I remain convinced 

07-29-2010
Sturts --Accept

Description, including the call note fits that of the Least Flycatcher. The observer is familiar with the similar species (both in plumage and their song) in the genus Empidonax.

010-25-2010
Sturts--Accept

I'm still convinced.

7-30-10
chuck trost--Accept

The call/song is distinctive.

10-9-10
chuck trost--Accept

I still feel that Dave is a careful observer and knows a "CHE-bek" when he hears it.

08-07-2010
Dave Trochlell--Accept

I'm convinced.

09-13-2010
Dave Trochlell--Accept

Although I gave a lot of thought to the legitimate concerns expressed by Cliff and Jay about this rare bird report, I finally decided to accept the record again

17 July 2010
Hardy--Accept

Distinctive vocalization.

10 October 2010
Hardy--Accept

Same comments as first round.