IDAHO BIRD RECORDS COMMITTEE 2006 REPORT

Committee members

Voting:
Charles Trost (Chair) - Power County
Shirley Sturts (Secretary) - Kootenai County
Jay Carlisle - Ada County
Kas Dumroese - Latah County
Charles Swift - Latah County
Dave Trochlell - Oregon State
Cliff Weisse - Fremont County

Non-voting:
Stacy J. Peterson (Webmaster) - Alaska
Harry Krueger (Honorary Member) - Ada County

This is the first online report of the Idaho Bird Records Committee (IBRC). It covers the actions of the Committees from July to December 2006. Records that were in the process of being voted on during 2006, but not completed until January 2007, are included in this report.

The IBRC Bylaws were updated and approved during July of 2006. Later, the following two proposed amendments were also approved.

1. Under "Consultations", the following blue text was added: "For the first vote (first circulation), a Voting Member shall not discuss a report with another Voting Member until both have voted. If a report requires additional votes (second or third circulations), pre-vote consultations are encouraged among Voting Members. On any circulation, a Voting Member may consult anyone outside the Voting Members of the Committee before voting. Information gathered will be added as an addendum to the record being considered."
   
   
2. Under "Review Species", the wording in blue was added. "Species that have occurred within Idaho or on the Idaho side of Snake River (as depicted in DeLorme) between Idaho and Oregon or Washington four or fewer times per year in each of the ten years immediately preceding the most recent revision of the List of Idaho Review Species."

Past voting by the IBRC concentrated on first state records for the purpose of establishing an "Official Idaho State Checklist."With the creation of the idahobirds.net Website,online voting facilitated the voting process.We are now in the process of voting on a backlog of some 297 submitted records, ranging from 1970 to the present. Of these, 39 are in active circulation, 21 are on hold for a 2nd round, 44 have been accepted and 5 not accepted;a 90% acceptance rate.

The Idaho State Official Checklist of birds was increased from 400 to 405.Species added to the Official Idaho State Checklist are: Cackling Goose, Least Bittern, Glossy Ibis, Great Black-backed Gull, and Dickcissel. Further work updating the abundance and region notations for species on the official checklist is planned for 2007.

Committee decisions are based on written and physical evidence, such as photographs, videos, recordings etc. A description of field marks noted during an observation is an important criteria on which the Committee bases its decision. A record that is not accepted by the Committee is not an indication that the identification is incorrect, only that the supporting evidence is not conclusive, the natural occurrence is questionable or the establishment of an introduced population is questionable. All reports whether accepted or not are valuable and are archived, providing even greater benefit to researchers in the future.

Finally, many of the records below are represented by single Rare Bird Reports. The Committee would like to encourge more observers to submit their own rarity reports in the future, even if you think a "more qualified birder" saw the bird. It is generally highly beneficial for the Committee to review multiple independent reports of the same rare bird. One report may mention a key field mark that was omitted from another report, or it may provide confirmation about an obscure field mark that may be questionable from a single report alone.

REPORTS

Observer: Only those submitting written documentation, photographs, videos or recordings are listed. Other observers and sources can be seen on the Review List.

Voting: In the voting totals found below, the first number represents votes for acceptance, the second number indicates the votes for not accepting (example: 7-0 means 7 voted to accept, 0 voted to not accept).

REPORTS ACCEPTED:

Brant (Branta bernicla) -- Record #: 17-B-98

VOTE: 5-2 (1st round)
VOTE: 7-0 (2nd round)

Written report: Pat Cole, Idaho Fish and Game Ecologist

30 June 1998 - (1 adult) - McArther Lake Wildlife Management Refuge, Boundary County, Latilong 1

On the first round of voting, all Committee members agreed that the identification was correct. However, two dissenting members questioned whether or not it was a wild bird. A June date was especially troublesome. Before proceeding with a second round of voting, Doug Schoenwald, Secretary of the Washington Bird Records Committee, was consulted on the likelihood of a Brant showing up in Idaho during the summer. Doug's conclusion, after discussing our record with Steve Mlodinow and others, was, "there is no reason to suspect that this Brant would be an 'escapee' based on season". One of the five Montana Brant records was at the Ninepipe NRW in May. Furthermore, Birds of Washington by Wahl/Tweit/Mlodinow show the Brant to be uncommon in summer. Many records exist for the months of June, July, and August. Doug says that immature birds are most likely to be found in summer, but some birds summer over each year, even in California.

Cackling Goose (Branta hutchinsii)

Canada Goose has long been recognized as being comprised of several subspecies. Recent research resulted in the American Ornithologists' Union decision to split this complex into two species and twelve subspecies, one of which, asiatica, may be extinct. The decision was published in the 45th Supplement to the AOU Checklist of North American Birds in 2004. Cackling Goose is currently considered to consist of the 5 smaller subspecies, while the remaining 7 remain with Canada Goose. The ID for Cackling Goose is often anything but straightforward, especially for the subspecies that are closest in size between the two species. Cackling Goose appears to be at least annual in the state, and further reports to IBRC may elucidate the status and distribution even more. Observers are encouraged to review the identification of "White-cheeked Geese" on the IdahoBirds.net website.

Cackling Goose (Branta hutchinsii) -- Record #: 1-B-04

*First Accepted State Record*

VOTE: 7-0

Written report and photos: Terry Gray

16 October - 7 November 2004 - (1 adult, B.h minima) - Lewiston, Nez Perce County, Latilong 4

This was a well written report accompanied by three good photographs. It seems likely that this species will turn out to be somewhat regular in Idaho. It may be removed from the Review List in the future.

Cackling Goose (Branta hutchinsii) -- Record #: 1-B-05

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Bill Gundlach

5 February 2005 - (1 adult ) - Lane Marsh, Kootenai County, Latilong 2

Although a photograph would have been nice, Bill's description of the small size, rounded head, short neck, small bill and Canada Geese being present for comparison, convinced the Committee members that the identification was correct.

American Black Duck (Anas rubripes)

One thing the Committee considers when evaluating American Black Duck is the question of its natural occurrence and introduced populations. After voting on Record #: 1-B-99, one Committee member provided the following voting comments:

"Far more troubling than species identity is the thorny issue of origin or wild provenance. The fact is, [American Black Duck] was released in both Washington (Everett) and British Columbia (n. of Victoria) many years ago, and some people believe that these introduced populations, though dwindling, provide the likely source for occasional [American Black Duck] sightings in the Pacific Northwest. Perhaps they do!"

It's true that the subject of this vote seemed wary and acted skittish, but according to Francis H. Kortwright in The Ducks, Geese & Swans of North America, American Black Duck is 'the most sagacious, wary, and wildest of all ducks, and even in captivity it retains its shyness and distrust of man.'

If we can believe this little behavioral chestnut from Kortwright, then any observation that equates shyness with wildness must not be taken too seriously. That said, in the absence of compelling evidence to the contrary, (and in most cases that's how it goes!), a vote to accept or reject waterfowl of unknown wild provenance comes down to little more than an opinion on whether vagrancy of the species is probable or not. In the case of American Black Duck, documentation exists for a pattern of vagrancy away from the species' core range. And there is certainly no good reason why the Lewiston bird could not have been a wild vagrant, given that the species is a powerful flier. Although perhaps merely circumstantial evidence, the Oregon and California's rare bird committees have voted to accept American Black Duck records in recent years. I believe that we should do the same, and give this one the nod of acceptance."

Another consideration is good description and the elimination of all possible similar species even if their presence at this location is a long shot. Further comments on Record #: 1-B-99:

"Then again, since Mottled Duck is a fairly similar species to American Black Duck, this southeastern U.S. species should have been considered and compared in the reports. Of course Mottled Duck is a long shot for the Lewiston, Idaho vicinity, but the species has strayed northward on occasion, and at least once to Colorado. One obvious American Black Duck field mark inexplicably missing from these reports was tail color. American Black Duck sports an all-dark tail area (as does Mottled Duck), whereas Mallards have whitish tails."

American Black Duck (Anas rubripe) -- Record #: 4-B-94

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Charles Trost

13 April 1994 - (1 adult) - Burley, Cassia County, Latilong 26

This bird was first observed by Ron and Jason Lynch, who called Charles to confirm their sighting. The report gave detailed field marks that were consistent with those of this species.

American Black Duck (Anas rubripes) -- Record #: 1-B-99

VOTE: 7-0

Written reports: Kas Dumroese, Charles Swift, Jane Westervelt, David Holick

27 March 1999 - 4 April 1999 - (1 adult ) - Mann Lake, Nez Perce County, Latilong 4

The Committee felt that these four records combined provided an excellent description of the bird and conclusively ruled out other species and hybrids.

Garganey (Anas querquedula) -- Record #: 7-B-92

VOTE: 6-1 (1st round)
VOTE: 7-0 (2nd round)

Written reports: Pat Cole and Rick Rogar, Winifred Hepburn, Carole Vande Vorde

14-18 May 1992 - McArthur Lake WMA, Boundary County, Latilong 1

The question of natural occurrence of this species came up in the first round of voting. Subsequent research of records from surrounding states revealed that the timing of the observation fits the pattern of occurrence for the region.

Montana has three records for Garganey:
May 1993, sex/age not given
April 1991, adult male
May 1977, adult male
All three records are from the northern two tiers of latilongs

Oregon BRC has accepted three records for Garganey:
Sept 17-19, 1988, 1 basic plumage
May 9-13, 1992, 1 breeding plumage male
May 14-17, 2005, 1 adult male Subsequent research of records from surrounding states revealed that the timing of the observation fits the pattern of occurrence for the regions

Idaho has one record prior to this report: April 20-May 3, 1990, Snake River near Hammet, Elmore County.

"Eurasian" Green-winged Teal (Anas crecca crecca) -- Record #: 3-A-06

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Steve Lindsay

22 January 2004 - (1 adult male) - Bottle Bay, Pend Oreille Lake, Bonner County, Latilong 1

The bird was first seen by Earl Chapin on 8 December 2003. The bird was with one male and two female Green-winged Teal for comparison. The markings described were consistent with the "Eurasian" race of Green-winged Teal.

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula) -- Record #: 2-B-03

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Lisa Hardy
Photographs: Wayne Tree and J. Prudente

20-29 March 2003 - (1 adult male) - Mission Flats, Kootenai County, Latilong 1

This was a well written, descriptive report. Hybrids were considered and eliminated. Photographs were diagnostic. Several experienced birders saw the bird.

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula) -- Record #: 4-B-04

Vote 7-0

Written report: Cliff Weisse

12 March 2004 - (1 adult male) - Mission Flats, Kootenai County, Latilong 1

This bird was thought to be the same bird as the one reported in Record #: 2-B-03. It appeared to be paired with a female Lesser Scaup in 2004. Lisa Hardy reports that she saw the bird there from 9-14 March. In both 2003 and 2004, it was with a flock of Ring-necked Duck and Lesser Scaup.

Black Scoter (Melanitta nigra) -- Record #: 11-B-97

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Dan Svingen

29-30 November 1997 - American Falls Reservoir, Power County, Latilong 27

A very complete, detailed and accurate report. The reporter eliminated all other possible species. There were multiple observers

White-tailed Ptarmigan (Lagopus leucurus)

From written comments by Earl Chapin, a long time resident and serious birder from Sandpoint, we learn that White-tailed Ptarmigan is present in several mountainous areas in Bonner and Boundary County. Although he has spent over 50 years hiking, skiing, and fishing in the Selkirks, he has never seen one himself. However, he has received several credible reports, including photographs, from 12 areas of the Selkirk, Purcell and Cabinet Mountains. These range from 1-6 single sightings, to 3 sightings in the Trapper Peak area, 4-5 from Grass Mountain and more than 25 from the Sweitzer Ski Basin area west of Sandpoint.

The Committee considers the following reports to be convincing and believes that they could only pertain to the White-tailed Ptarmigan. The species occurs in neighboring states/provinces and the multiple Idaho reports come from suitable habitat. An excellent critique by Earl Chapin was very helpful to the Committee in making their decision.

White-tailed Ptarmigan (Lagopus leucurus) -- Record #: 1-B-91

VOTE: 7-0

Written reports: John. Pucci, Mike Rogers, Phillip Kuran (all ski patrolmen)
Written comments: Earl Chapin

December 1990 - February 1991 (several times during the winter) - Schweitzer Ski Basin, Bonner County, Latilong 1

White-tailed Ptarmigan (Lagopus leucurus) -- Record #: 4-B-92

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Roger Myers

16 February 1992 - Cow Creek Meadows, Boundary County, Latilong 1

White-tailed Ptarmigan (Lagopus leucurus) -- Record #: 5-B-92

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Bill Bennett, Dave Wall

1 March 1992 - Grass Mountain, (about 10 miles south of Canada), Boundary County, Latilong 1

Red-throated Loon (Gavia stellata) -- Record #: 17-B-92

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Dan Svingen

23 October 1992 - 9 November 1992 (1 immature) - Harrison Marina, Coeur d'Alene Lake, Kootenai County, Latilong 2

Dan provided a very detailed description of a juvenile Red-throated Loon, including a sketch showing the critical field marks. Two Pacific Loons were present for comparison. Dan concluded this bird was a juvenile from the dark neck pattern, due to ongoing molt, and the smaller size and shape of the bill. There were several observers

Red-throated Loon (Gavia stellata) -- Record #: 30-B-05

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Cliff Weisse

20 November 2005 - (1 immature) - Island Park Reservoir, Fremont County, latilong 16

Cliff's documentation was commendable. All critical field marks were noted for a juvenile Red-throated Loon.

Yellow-billed Loon (Gavia adamsii) -- Record #: 10-B-91

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Dan Svingen

28 December 1991 - 16 March 1992 - (2 adults) - Harrison Marina, Coeur d'Alene Lake, Kootenai County, Latilong 1

These two birds were first observed during the Indian Mountain Christmas Bird Count by Susan Weller and Pam Gontz on December 28th. Dan verified their sighting and wrote his report on December 29. Dan studied and photographed these loons over a three week period. He based his belief that they were adults by their "relatively boldly colored back". They stayed around until the 16th of March, giving many observers a chance see this rare visitor to North Idaho.

Yellow-billed Loon (Gavia adamsii) -- Record #: 2-B-94

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Dan Svingen, Kas Dumroese, David Holick

29 January - 13 March 1994 - (2 immature) - Harrison, Coeur d' Alene Lake, Kootenai County, Latilong 2

These two immatures were found at the same locations as those reported by Dan Svingen in 1991 (Record #:10-B-01). He based their age on their "scalloped back pattern and yellowish-green bill color".

Yellow-billed Loon (Gavia adamsii) -- Record #: 12-B-00

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Cliff Weisse
Photographs: Darren Clark

1 November 2000 - 9 November 2000 - (1 immature) - Island Park Reservoir, Fremont County, Latilong 16

It was observed for several hours on five separate days. Although there is no description given, the photographs are convincing. The Committee encourages observers to write a written description to accompany photographs wherever possible.

Least Bittern (Ixobrychus exilis) -- Record #: 2-A-05

*First Accepted State Record*

VOTE: 7-0

Written report and photograph: Cliff Weisse
Photograph: Dave Lawrence

17 June 2005 - Camas NWR, Jefferson County, Latilong 21

While tantalizing reports of this species have been received in the past, a fine report with good photographs left no doubt in the minds of the Committee that this record was worthy of being the first accepted state record for Least Bittern.

Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) -- Record #: 3-A-05

*First Accepted State Record*

VOTE: 7-0

Written report and photographs: Darren Clark

11-13 June 2005 Camas NWR, Jefferson County, Latilong 21

Committee members unanimously agreed that the written and photographic documentation provided excellent support for Idaho's first Glossy Ibis record.

Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) -- Record #: 2-A-06

VOTE:7-0

Written report: Cliff Weisse

19 May - 1 June 2006 - (3 adults) - near Market Lake, Jefferson County, Latilong 21

A good description and excellent comparison with nearby White-faced Ibis supported the identification of this third Idaho record. (The second report has yet to be acted upon by the IBRC).

Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) -- Record #: 4-A-06

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Cliff Weisse

3 June 2006 - (1 adult) - near Market Lake, Jefferson County, Latilong 21

A note from Cliff: "I think the bird in this report is probably one of the three I saw earlier in the same general area but there is no way to be sure, so I submitted a second report."

Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus) -- Record #: 7-A-06

VOTE: 7-0

Written report and photographs: Alexander "Sasha" Keyel

27 June 2006 - (1-2 adults in breeding plumage) - Sterling WMA, Bingham County, Latilong 21

One photo appeared to clearly show Glossy Ibis, and the written description of a dark iris helped the Committee unanimously accept this record. Since the observer was not certain if there were two birds present, only one shown in the photo was accepted by the entire Committee.

Long-tailed Jaeger (Stercorarius longicaudus) -- Record #: 7-B-04

VOTE: 7-0

Written report and photographs: Cliff Weisse

28 August - 3 September 2004 - (1 light-morph juvenile) - Island Park Reservoir (near Grizzly Springs), Fremont County, Latilong 1

The Committee was impressed by Cliff's excellent description and photographs. One member commented on key criteria including: two pale primary shafts, grayer plumage than other immature jaegers, small size, and slender shape. Another member had this to say, "The identification of jaeger species is rarely straightforward, especially since juvenile birds are the typical fare in the inland West."

Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus) -- Record #: 8-B-92

VOTE: 7-0

Written report and photograph: Russell Gebhard

24-25 May 1992 - (1 adult) - Mann Lake, Nez Perce County, Latilong 4

The photograph and description fit that of a Snowy Plover.

Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus) -- Record #: 78-B-06

Vote 7-0

Written report: Jay Carlisle

25 July 1999 - (1 adult) - American Falls Reservoir, Power County?, 1/8 mile W of Willow Bay Marina, Latilong 27

The pale plumage and small size combined with the dark legs & bill described by Jay in his description eliminated other species.

Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus ) -- Record #: 59-B-06

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Denise Hughes

7 August 2006 - Lower Dam at Lake Lowell, Canyon County, Latilong 17

Denise provided the Committee with a good description and eliminated other possibilities. Her description included the plover like bill, dark legs, and short neck with dark patches on both sides of neck extending towards chest. There were two additional experienced observers.

Upland Sandpiper (Bartramia longicauda) -- Record #: 13-B-06

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Robert Bond

6 June 2001 - in a meadow on the south end of Priest lake near Coolin, Bonner County, Latilong 1

The bird was originally flushed from a meadow and started calling with a note that was unfamiliar to the observer. Later Robert identified the call from a CD recording. A search in back of the meadow located the bird for an excellent view before it disappeared from sight. Key field marks including its profile, large eye, smallish head with a long neck and the call satisfied the Committee that this was an Upland Sandpiper.

White-rumped Sandpiper (Calidris fuscicollis) -- Record #: 23-B-06

VOTE: 7-0

Written report and photographs: Cliff Weisse

1 June 2006 - (2 adults) - Island Park Reservoir, Fremont County, latilong 16

This was a detailed report with several photographs and many observers. Observers saw the white rump patch (during preening), the streaked chest & flanks, and the long primary projection.

Sharp-tailed Sandpiper (Calidris acuminata) -- Record #: 26-B-05

VOTE: 7-0

Written report and photographs: Cliff Weisse

2-5 October 2005 - (1 juvenile associating with 2 juvenile Pectoral Sandpipers) - Island Park Reservoir, Fremont County, Latilong 16

Cliff's detailed report with photos left no doubt as to the identification of this bird. An additional observer who did not file official Rare Bird Reports also noted the reddish cap, the bright chest with streaking restricted to the sides, and the narrow eye-ring.

Short-billed Dowitcher (Limnodromus griseus)

This species isn't considered rare in the state, but its status and distribution are not as well known as we'd like. Because it can be difficult to differentiate from the Long-billed Dowitcher, the Committee asks for documentation on each sighting. Descriptive field marks that distinguish these two species should be noted and included in the report. Eventually, as our understanding of this species in the state increases, it may be removed from the Review List.

Short-billed Dowitcher (Limnodromus griseus) -- Record #: 5-B-06

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Cliff Weisse

27 August 2005 - (1 juvenile) - Island Park Reservoir, Fremont County, Latilong 16

This individual was seen sitting and preening with a flock of Long-billed Dowitcher, Lesser Yellowlegs and one Stilt Sandpiper. It looked brighter than the Long-billed from a distance and on closer examination, the diagnostic internal markings of the tertials were seen.

Short-billed Dowitcher (Limnodromus griseus) -- Record #: 52-B-06

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Cliff Weisse

8 September 2006 - (1 juvenile) - Island Park Reservoir, Fremont County, Latilong 16

Juvenile age was determined by the condition of the plumage. Cliff described all the feathers of upperparts as being uniform and unworn. He eliminated the similar Long-billed by its heavily marked tertials.

Short-billed Dowitcher (Limnodromus griseus) -- Record #: 45-B-06

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Cliff Weisse

25 August 2006 - (3 in juvenile plumage) - Island Park Reservoir near the mouth of Sheridan Creek, Fremont County, Latilong 16

As in Record #: 52-B-06, Cliff described the plumage of all three individuals as being uniform and unworn and seeing the heavily marked tertials that separated it from the similar Long-billed Dowitcher. Two of the birds were associating and foraging near Franklin's Gull. The other bird did not associate with the other two and was found nearby with a flock of Willets and two Marbled Godwits.

Little Gull (Larus minutus) -- Record #: 35-B-05

VOTE: 7-0

Written report and photograph: Cliff Weisse

1 September 2005 (2^nd summer) - Island Park, Fremont County, Latilong 16

This individual was observed for a total of two hours over at least three days. It perched on a gravel island, foraged over the water, and picked food off the ground. The Little Gull is the only small gull with completely dark gray underwings. This field mark and the photograph established its identity as a Little Gull.

Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus) -- Record #: 5-A-03

*First Accepted State Record*

VOTE: 7-0

Written report and phototographs: Cliff Weisse

13 December 2003 - 2 January 2004 (First winter Great Black-backed Gull with retained juvenile scapulars) - Ada County Hidden Hollow Landfill, near Boise, Latilong 17

The Committee was impressed with the good description, the comparison with other likely gull species and the photographs. Cliff indicates that the "combination of tail pattern and blackish centered, white edged scapulars alone is enough to eliminate all other likely gulls."

Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto)

The Committee has only accepted records that provide evidence distinguishing the Eurasian Collared-Dove from the similar Ringed-turtle Dove. Ringed Turtle-Dove is a domestic variety once listed on the American Birding Association checklist. It has since been removed as it is not considered a naturally occurring species and apparently doesn't do well in the wild. It is sold in pet stores and it is not unusual to see escapes. A recent "suspect" in north Idaho was caught and taken to a pet store where it was found to be a perfect match with the Ringed Turtle Doves on display there. It was very tame and seemed very content to be in a cage. It was eventually moved in with two other Ringed Turtle Doves the store had.

It appears that Eurasian Collared-Doves are well established in several areas of Southern Idaho. Roberts is one area where they are found to be present year around in decent numbers. This species may be removed from the Review List in the near future.

Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) -- Record #: 2-B-01

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Charles Trost

13 January- 28 February 2001 - (3 birds) - Neeley west of American Falls, Power County, Latilong 27

Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) -- Record #: 16-B-01

VOTE: 7-0

Written report and photographs: Kent Fothergill

15 October 2001 - (3 birds) - Burley, Cassia County, Latilong 26

Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) -- Record #: 18-B-06

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: James Cleaver

20 May 2006 - (3 sightings in different locations) - Blackfoot area, Bingham County, Latilong 21

Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) -- Record #: 26-B-06

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Cliff Weisse

3 June 2006 - (5 individuals seen at different locations) - Roberts area, Jefferson County, Latilong 21

Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) -- Record #: 37-B-06

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Roger D. Blew

12 August 2006 - (1 individual) - in a backyard in Idaho Falls, Jefferson County, Latilong 21

Eurasian Collared-Dove (Streptopelia decaocto) -- Record #: 55-B-06

VOTE: 7-0

Written report: Cliff Weisse

5 October 2006 - (1 individual) - near Ashton, Fremont County, Latilong 22

Northern Hawk-Owl (Surnia ulula) -- Record #: 2-B-04

VOTE: 7-0

Written report and photographs: Scott Bailey
Photographs: Ryan Brady, Kathleen Cameron

7 January - 5 March 2004 - Ketchum Elkhorn Village, Blaine County, Latilong 19

First discovered by Kathleen Cameron and Poo Wright-Pulliam, this bird was seen by numerous observers. The report was supported by several photographs. This owl was banded by Idaho Bird Observatory personnel.

Dickcissel (Spiza americana) -- Record #: 5-A-06 *First Accepted State Record*

VOTE: 7-0

Written reports: Cliff Weisse, Bob Davis
Photographs: Darren Clark
Song recordings: Bob Davis

30 June 2006 - Ashton, Fremont County, Latilong 16

A report of a possible Dickcissel in the vicinity of the home of Doug Irwin garnered quick attention among local birders. In response to a recording by Bob, the bird landed on a telephone wire in Doug's backyard and later flew to a nearby tree. It was studied, photographed and its song recorded over the next 15 minutes by Cliff, Bob and Darren. The resulting documentation was among the most complete that the Committee has encountered this year.

REPORTS NOT ACCEPTED

American Black Duck (Anas rubripes) -- Report #: 3-B-89

VOTE: 0-7

approx. 1960 - Camas NWR, Jefferson County, Latilong 21

The Committee felt that this was very likely an American Black Duck, but the description does not contain a physical description of the bird, nor does it rule out other species.

American Black Duck (Anas rubripes) -- Report #: 4-B-89

VOTE: 0-7

approx. 1972 Camas NWR, Jefferson County, Latilong 21

The Committee felt that this was also very likely an American Black Duck but the description does not contain a physical description of the bird, nor does it rule out other species.

American Black Duck (Anas rubripes) -- Report #: 14-B-05

VOTE: 1-6 (1st round)
VOTE: 0-7 (2nd round)

7-9 May 2005 - Meadows Creek Development, Garden City, Ada, County, Latilong 17

The description in some ways fits that of American Black Duck. A picture which may have provided needed support was lost before it could be submitted to the Committee. Two dissenting members commented on the description of the bill as having a "darker area in center towards head" suggesting a Mallard rather than an American Black Duck. Others commented on the location and tameness, bringing up question of its natural occurrence. As one Committee member commented, Mallard-type birds are often released along the Boise River. Some types are very pale while others are about as dark as American Black Duck.

Tufted Duck (Aythya fuligula) -- Record #: 4-B-02

VOTE: 1-6 (1st round)
VOTE: 0-7 (2nd Round)

19 August 2002 - (1 adult female) - Mica Bay, Coeur d'Alene Lake, Kootenai County, Latilong 1

While the description resembles a female Tufted Duck the Committee felt that the specific identification was not established. There were some aspects of the description that were troubling. One member pointed out that the overall brown color with no mention of paler flanks suggests a possible hybrid origin. A Tufted Duck in any plumage shows obviously paler flanks that would be visible at considerable distance. Also, there was no description of the wing pattern. The Committee felt that the description did not conclusively eliminate other species, and/or hybrids in the genus Aythaya. According to Sibley, Tufted Duck x Scaup hybrids are seen occasionally. The timing of the sighting was also brought out. Most North American records occur in fall or spring. A photograph would have been very helpful.

Short-billed Dowitcher (Limnodromus griseus) -- Record # 3-B-98

VOTE: 0-7

3 October 1984 - (shot by a duck hunter who thought it was a snipe) - Morton Slough, Bonner County, Latilong ?

Even though the bird was examined in hand, the Committee members voted not to accept this record because there was no description of field marks that would separate it from the similar Long-billed Dowitcher. One dissenting Committee member commented that the date is late for the Short-billed Dowitcher.