New Jersey Bird Records Committee — Annual Report 2014 by Tom Brown, Bill Boyle, Paul Guris, and Tom Reed The New Jersey Bird Records Committee (hereafter “NJBRC” or “the Committee”) held meetings on 20 October 2013 and 6 April 2014 at Cape May. One hundred fifteen reports were considered and voted. There were three new additions to the New Jersey state list in 2013, so the grand total of the New Jersey State List stands at 472 species through 2013. New to the list are Mew Gull, Crested Caracara and Lazuli Bunting. The current State List is available at <http://www.njbrc.net/slist.html> and the current NJBRC Review List can be found at <http://www.njbrc.net/rlist.html >. Voting NJBRC members during the period covered by this report were Scott Barnes, Tom Brown, Tom Boyle, Bob Fogg, Rob Fergus, Mike Fritz, Sam Galick, Paul Guris, Jonathan Klizas, Tony Leukering, Linda Mack, Tom Reed, and Dick Veit. Bob Fogg served as Committee Chair. Non-voting members Bill Boyle and Laurie Larson continued as Secretary and Assistant Secretary. Jennifer Hanson also provided secretarial assistance. All reports should be sent to <[email protected]>, or via snail mail to Bill Boyle, Secretary, NJBRC, 13 Strawberry Lane, Cape May, NJ 08204. In addition, the NJBRC website can be found at <http://www.njbrc.net/ >. The NJBRC would also like to thank all the observers who submitted documentation during the past year. The Committee would have an impossible job without the support of these birders. Although digital photography has made the documentation of many rarities easier, there is still an important place for field notes; good notes can strengthen the case made by photos of less-than-stellar quality. Field notes can also make the case for rare birds that are recorded only as brief mentions on the Internet. If you see a Review List bird and post a report to an e- mail list, please take a little extra time and submit a description to the NJBRC as well. Although the identification of rarities with no supporting details is often correct it cannot be accepted as part of the historical record, which relies on supporting evidence that can be consulted by researchers many years in the future. Even a brief description, or a sketch by an avowed non-artist, can be enough to support an observation well enough to add it to the official record. The format used to present data is standardized. Records are grouped by Committee actions, with Accepted records listed first, followed by reports that the Committee did not accept (identification was not sufficiently supported by the documentation supplied), and then a group for records treated specially. Within each group, records are presented in phylogenetic order (according to the A.O.U. Check- list, 7 th edition and supplements). For each species, the English and scientific names are given, followed by the current total of accepted state records. The record(s) considered by the Committee are then listed, arranged by date. For each record entry, the internal NJBRC index number is given, followed by date, location, and county. If the report involved more than one individual, the number of birds is given following the location; all records involve a single bird unless otherwise noted. Then, for accepted records, data on finders and documenters are given. The finder’s name, if known, is listed first, followed by a semicolon and the names of the other observers who submitted some form of documentation to the Committee (in alphabetical order), accompanied by symbols: “*” indicates that written documentation was submitted; “ph” denotes a photo or videotape. Following these data, comments are provided to explain important or interesting aspects of the records. Other abbreviations used: Co. = County; NJAS = New Jersey Audubon Society; NWR = National Wildlife Refuge; Res. = Reservoir; SP = State Park;
Transcript
New Jersey Bird Records Committee — Annual Report 2014
by Tom Brown, Bill Boyle, Paul Guris, and Tom Reed
The New Jersey Bird Records Committee (hereafter “NJBRC” or “the Committee”) held meetings on 20 October 2013 and 6 April 2014 at Cape May. One hundred fifteen reports were considered and voted. There were three new additions to the New Jersey state list in 2013, so the grand total of the New Jersey State List stands at 472 species through 2013. New to the list are Mew Gull, Crested Caracara and Lazuli Bunting. The current State List is available at <http://www.njbrc.net/slist.html> and the current NJBRC Review List can be found at <http://www.njbrc.net/rlist.html >. Voting NJBRC members during the period covered by this report were Scott Barnes, Tom Brown, Tom Boyle, Bob Fogg, Rob Fergus, Mike Fritz, Sam Galick, Paul Guris, Jonathan Klizas, Tony Leukering, Linda Mack, Tom Reed, and Dick Veit. Bob Fogg served as Committee Chair. Non-voting members Bill Boyle and Laurie Larson continued as Secretary and Assistant Secretary. Jennifer Hanson also provided secretarial assistance. All reports should be sent to <[email protected]>, or via snail mail to Bill Boyle, Secretary, NJBRC, 13 Strawberry Lane, Cape May, NJ 08204. In addition, the NJBRC website can be found at <http://www.njbrc.net/ >. The NJBRC would also like to thank all the observers who submitted documentation during the past year. The Committee would have an impossible job without the support of these birders. Although digital photography has made the documentation of many rarities easier, there is still an important place for field notes; good notes can strengthen the case made by photos of less-than-stellar quality. Field notes can also make the case for rare birds that are recorded only as brief mentions on the Internet. If you see a Review List bird and post a report to an e-mail list, please take a little extra time and submit a
description to the NJBRC as well. Although the identification of rarities with no supporting details is often correct it cannot be accepted as part of the historical record, which relies on supporting evidence that can be consulted by researchers many years in the future. Even a brief description, or a sketch by an avowed non-artist, can be enough to support an observation well enough to add it to the official record. The format used to present data is standardized. Records are grouped by Committee actions, with Accepted records listed first, followed by reports that the Committee did not accept (identification was not sufficiently supported by the documentation supplied), and then a group for records treated specially. Within each group, records are presented in phylogenetic order (according to the A.O.U. Check-list, 7th edition and supplements). For each species, the English and scientific names are given, followed by the current total of accepted state records. The record(s) considered by the Committee are then listed, arranged by date. For each record entry, the internal NJBRC index number is given, followed by date, location, and county. If the report involved more than one individual, the number of birds is given following the location; all records involve a single bird unless otherwise noted. Then, for accepted records, data on finders and documenters are given. The finder’s name, if known, is listed first, followed by a semicolon and the names of the other observers who submitted some form of documentation to the Committee (in alphabetical order), accompanied by symbols: “*” indicates that written documentation was submitted; “ph” denotes a photo or videotape. Following these data, comments are provided to explain important or interesting aspects of the records. Other abbreviations used: Co. = County; NJAS = New Jersey Audubon Society; NWR = National Wildlife Refuge; Res. = Reservoir; SP = State Park;
Co. C. Magarelli, R. Fergus (ph). ● 2014-003. 9 – 16 January 2013. Mercer Co.
Mercer County. S. Barnes, J. Gilbert (ph), T. Anderson(ph), C. Williams, m.ob.
● 2014-011. 20 January – 24 February 2013. Toms River, Ocean Co. S. Wainwright*(ph), J. Gilbert(ph), L. Musher, m.ob.
● 2014-017a. 2 – 7 February 2013. Overpeck Park, Bergen Co. A Burmester(ph), R. Templeton(ph).
● 2014-017b. 24 February 2013. Florham Park, Morris Co. J. Glassberg*(ph).
Observers have become much more vigilant in scanning through wintering goose flocks. This extra effort, combined with an apparent increase of Pink-footed Geese arriving in North America, brought the state four additional records in 2013. Similarities in bill markings, attained via digital photographs, linked an individual that traveled from Overpeck Park (Bergen Co.) to Florham Park (Morris Co.) during February.
Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis (20) ● 2014-008. 16 January – 27 February 2013.
Spruce Run Res., Hunterdon Co. M. Rehman, R. Fergus*(ph).
● 2014-012. 21 January – 15 March 2013. Jersey City, Hudson Co. S. Hill, J. Brunner, L. Scacchetti (ph), B. McMahon(ph).
● 2014-079. 17 February 2013. Dayton, Middlesex Co. D. Temple*, J. Temple.
● 2014-086. 2 December 2013 – 20 January 2014. Ramsey, Bergen Co. M. Turso*(ph), C. Thomas, m.ob.
For a second straight year, there were multiple records of this beautiful goose. Observers should continue to exercise caution when documenting this species, as individuals escaping from captivity are still possible, and the species has been shown to hybridize with Canada Goose and/or Cackling Goose. Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula (8) ● 2014-023. 22 March – 2 April 2013. Parvin SP,
Salem Co. D. Weber*(ph), S. Galick(ph), T. Reed*(ph), S. Keller.
New Jersey’s eighth record of Tufted Duck, this drake was appreciated by hundreds of observers during its stay. It was the first discovered in the state since 2003, and a first for Salem County.
The first Tufted Duck in the state in ten years, this drake was photographed in the company of Ring-necked Ducks at Parvin State Park. Photo/T. Reed Pacific Loon Gavia pacifica (28) ● 2014-018. 9 – 20 March 2013. Morris Plains,
Morris Co. J. Glydon, J. Klizas*(ph), S. Lane(ph).
● 2014-019. 15 – 22 March 2013. Lake Parsippany, Morris Co. P. Wolter, J. Klizas (ph), S. Lane, B. Boyle.
● 2014-020. 17 March – 6 April 2013. Boonton Res., Morris Co. S. Lane (ph), J. Klizas (ph).
● 2014-095a. 27 December 2013 – 12 January 2014. Manasquan Inlet, Monmouth Co. D. Lovitch, S. Barnes*, A. Tongas(ph), J. Schlickenrieder.
● 2014-095b. 27 – 31 December 2013. Deal, Monmouth Co. D. Lovitch, S. Barnes*, L. Scachetti(ph).
An unprecedented string of inland records featured three individuals found on inland bodies of water in Morris County, including one that spent time at a corporate park pond! Much more expected was a single bird found along the Monmouth County coast during December. Eared Grebe Podiceps nigricollis (60) ● 2014-085. 22 November – 9 December 2013.
Round Valley Res., Hunterdon Co. M. Rehman*(ph), J. Ellerbusch(ph), V. Rettig.
This individual represented New Jersey’s third inland record of the species, all of which have occurred at Round Valley Reservoir. The bird performed wonderfully during its stay, and was widely photographed. Western Grebe Aechmorphorus occidentalis (30) • 2014-026. 27 April – 16 May 2013. Cape May,
Cape May Co. S. Whittle, M. Jewell*(ph), P. Wolter.
• 2014-034. 11 May 2013. South Amboy, Middlesex Co. P. Belardo*(ph), A. Laquidara, J. Beetham, T. Ostrand.
● 2014-083. 1 December 2013. Sea Isle City, Cape May Co. C. Cammarota*(ph).
This graceful waterbird of the West again supplied multiple records in 2013. All were found on saltwater, in near-shore ocean waters or bays/inlets. All three were nicely photographed, and the spring bird at Cape May was enjoyed by hundreds of observers. Observers are encouraged to carefully document any Aechmorphorus grebes they encounter, as Clark’s Grebe and hybrids are possible. White-faced Storm-Petrel Pelagodroma marina (9) ● 2014-063. 18 August 2013. Offshore Ocean Co.
B. Reo(ph).
A single White-faced Storm-Petrel was photographed at the “Mud Hole,” an underwater feature located ca. 25 miles off Ocean County. The mid-August date coincides well with previous records. Band-rumped Storm-Petrel Oceanodroma castro (11) ● 2014-062. 17 August 2013. Wilmington Canyon,
Pelagic. T. Reed*, et al. ● 2014-106. 7 September 2013. Wilmington
Canyon, Pelagic. T. Reed*, et al.
This deep-water species has been found with increasing frequency during recent years, almost always at or near the Wilmington Canyon during August and September. Both were well described and observed by multiple observers familiar with the species.
Brown Booby Sula leucogaster (13) ● 2014-056. 2 – 21 July 2013. Monmouth and
Ocean Co. P. Becker(ph), T. Anderson*(ph), L.
Scachetti, M. Britt. ● 2014-059. 11 July. Near Cape May, Cape May
Co. C. Steiger(ph).
This sulid, an increasingly frequent visitor from tropical waters, appeared in New Jersey for the fourth consecutive year. Both were immature; one wandered widely along the North Shore through much of July, while another landed on a boat just offshore Cape May during the same time period.
This juvenile Brown Booby had a hard time finding a good perch on a boat just off Cape May Point, but flew away in good health. Photo/C. Steiger White-faced Ibis Plegadis chihi (54) ● 2014-029. 6 – 8 May 2013. Manahawkin, Ocean
Co. L. Mack*(ph), V. Rettig. ● 2014-030. 6 May 2013. Allaire SP, Monmouth
Co. R. Testa(ph). ● 2014-097. 27 October 2013. Forsythe NWR,
Atlantic Co. J. Buechner*(ph), T. O’Reilly.
In line with recent trends, there were again multiple reports of this western species in 2013. The first two sightings occurred during the regular spring timeframe. The fall record is more exceptional, but the species may soon become more regular at that time of year. Swainson’s Hawk Buteo swainsoni (42) ● 2014-072. 19 – 20 October 2013. Nummy Island
and Cape May, Cape May Co. M. Tabb, L. Tabb, M. O’Brien*(ph), L. Fanning*, T. Reed*, S. Galick*(ph).
● 2014-073. 24 – 25 October 2013. Cape May, Cape May Co. T. Reed*, M. O’Brien(ph), S. Galick(ph).
● 2014-107. 26 October 2013. Cape May, Cape May Co. T. Reed*(ph), L. Fanning*.
As per usual, all three reports of this species came from Cape May during autumn. All were hatch-year birds: two dark-types and one light-type. Each was seen and photographed extensively by many observers, and two were eventually captured and banded by the Cape May Raptor Banding Project. Yellow Rail Coturnicops noveboracensis (38) ● 2014-103. 9 November 2011. Burleigh, Cape
May Co. B. Allen(ph). This individual was captured during a nighttime banding survey of American Woodcock at Cape May NWR, but the record and photograph only recently reached the attention of the Committee. Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus (4) ● 2014-006. 14 January – 29 March 2013. New
Egypt, Ocean Co. 3. S. Zirlin, L. Zirlin*(ph), S. Galick(ph), m.ob.
One of the great finds of this or any year was the discovery of this trio of lapwings at the back edge of a farm field by a sharp-eyed observer on her lunch break. Fortunately, the birds preferred to remain in the pasture and the cooperative farmer put up with a steady stream of traffic in the ensuing weeks. They were enjoyed by hundreds of birders from all over the Northeast and probably farther afield.
The Northern Lapwing trio stayed at the back of the field, too far for close-up photos, but were documented by many observers. Photo/R. Fergus Long-billed Curlew Numenius americanus (10) ● 2014-031. 6 May 2013. Linden, Union Co. S.
Galick*. The curlew was only a fly-by, but attracted the attention of the single observer by its loud, whistling
call and flew close enough for him to see the long, decurved beak and cinnamon coloration. Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica (6) ● 2014-028. 2 – 5 May 2013. Forsythe NWR,
Atlantic Co. A. Walsh, C. Decker, S. Santino, J. Ellerbusch*(ph), J. Stippick.
Making a repeat performance from prior years, this adult male was well documented again this May. It was also documented in 2010 and 2011. Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea (34) ● 2014-047. 5 June 2013. Strathmere, Cape May
Co. D. Rivel(ph). ● 2014-053. 18 – 28 May 2013. Heislerville WMA,
Cumberland Co. I. Basrawi*, B. Henderson*(ph), S. Kacir, B. Keim.
● 2014-098. 18 – 20 September 2013. Forsythe NWR, Atlantic Co. M. Bango*(ph), H. Tomlinson*(ph).
Heislerville continues to be the top site for records of this species in the state, but it appeared in other locations as well, this year.
Ocean-front beach is an unusual place to find Curlew Sandpiper, but this male in high breeding plumage was at Strathmere in early June. Photo/ D. Rivel Ruff Philomachus pugnax (Since 2012)(2) ● 2014-054. 22 June 2013. Forsythe NWR,
Atlantic Co. Male. B. Schweinhart, S. Rabin(ph). Once a regularly occurring visitor, especially in the Pedricktown area, this species was added back to the review list due to the lack of reports. There was just one well documented record for 2012 and this one for 2013. It will be interesting to see what the frequency of sightings looks like in the future.
Red Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius From land since Jan. 2013(8) ● 2014-048. 12 March 2013. Avalon, Cape May
Co. T. Reed*. ● 2014-021. 19 March 2013. Round Valley Res.,
Hunterdon Co. F. Sencher, Sr., F. Sencher*(ph). ● 2014-032. 8 – 10 May 2013. Forsythe NWR,
Atlantic Co. M. Webster*(ph), T. Kersten(ph), D. Freiday.
● 2014-056. 11 May 2013. Meadowlands, Bergen Co. C. Takacs*, M. Newhouse, M. Wolfe.
While common in offshore pelagic waters, land based sightings of this species are now reviewed by the NJBRC to determine how regularly it occurs onshore. Unlike 2012 where all four accepted records were seen in the fall and likely due to Hurricane Sandy, 2013 saw all of its records in the spring. Franklin’s Gull Leucophaeus pipixcan (23) ● 2014-055. 28 June 2013. Spruce Run Res.,
Hunterdon Co. M. Rehman(ph), F. Sencher(ph), m.ob.
An adult bird with an incomplete hood, this gull was well-photographed during its one-day visit. Although the date is unusual, this species has now occurred in every month but March. Mew Gull Larus canus (1) ● 2014-004. 10 January 2013. Spruce Run Res.,
Hunterdon Co. R. Fergus*(ph), F. Sencher(ph). Thought by some to be long overdue, New Jersey’s first accepted record of Mew Gull was found in a flock of Ring-billed Gulls. While only a one-day wonder, the adult bird was well photographed, amazingly via digiscoping with a scope and a phone. Long-tailed Jaeger Stercorarius longicaudas From land since Jan. 2013 (1) ● 2014-099. 5 – 12 September 2013. Cape May,
Cape May Co. T. Reed*(ph), G. DeWaghe, K. Lukens*(ph), A. Lamoreaux(ph), M. O’Brien*.
This is another species reviewed by the NJBRC outside of the pelagic zone. The species is regular well offshore but seldom well documented from land. This fairly dark juvenile bird put on a near week long display for birders.
This young Long-tailed Jaeger, a species seldom seen from land, hung around Cape May for almost a week, providing observers ample opportunity to study its plumage features. Photo/A. Lamoreaux Thick-billed Murre Uria lomvia (12) ● 2014-009. 13 January 2013. Long Branch,
Monmouth Co. J. Ellerbusch*(ph), S. Lane. This was a distant but nicely photographed bird. This species was once considered to be the more common of the two murre species, but this has changed with greater pelagic coverage and an increase in Common Murre in our area. White-winged Dove Zenaida asiatica (46) ● 2014-043. 23 May 2013. Sandy Hook,
Monmouth Co. F. Sencher(ph), T. Boyle, T. Anderson(ph).
● 2014-093a. 4 November 2013. Cape May, Cape May Co. T. Reed*.
● 2014-093b. 27 December – January. Cape May, Cape May Co. K. Lukens*(ph), m.ob.
This species has been nearly annual in the state for over a decade. This year’s reports come from Cape May, the main source of records, and Sandy Hook, a location that has produced several past records. Rufous Hummingbird Selasphorus rufus (34) ● 2014-075. 25 October 2013 – 3 January 2014.
Fanwood, Union Co. M. Southwell, G. Valladares(ph), N. Gregorio(ph), m.ob.
● 2014-087. 2 November – 21 December 2013. North Cape May, Cape May Co. B. Polvino(ph), W. Kerling, S. Galick(ph).
● 2014-088. 5 December 2013 – 4 January 2014. Medford, Burlington Co. R. Bynum(ph).
● 2014-089. 2 December 2013 – 5 January 2014. Cape May, Cape May Co. B. Schuhl, M.
O’Brien*(ph), K. Lukens*(ph), m.ob., M. Webster.
● 2014-092. 27 – 30 October 2013. Seaville, Cape May Co. M. Fritz*(ph).
● 2014-101. 21 October – 2 November 2013. Del Haven, Cape May Co. H. Tomlinson(ph).
Six positively identified Rufous Hummingbirds is a record for the state. Adding the records of 2 Calliopes, 1 Rufous/Allen’s, and 3 birds identified only as selaphorus sp. made 2013 an unprecedented year for Western hummingbirds in New Jersey.
Few of the Rufous Hummingbirds found in the state are adult males, but this handsome fellow at a Medford feeder for a month was an exception. Photo/R. Bynum. Rufous/Allen’s Hummingbird Selasphorus rufus/sasin (32) ● 2014-082. 23 October 2013. Cape May, Cape
May Co. A. Maeland(ph). ● 2014-105. 29 November – 2 December 2013. Del
Haven, Cape May Co. H. Tomlinson(ph). New Jersey has 3 records of Allen’s Hummingbird, so the Committee is always careful when assessing Rufous type hummingbirds. Birds in this category are likely Rufous but we must take the cautious route. Fortunately birders are becoming more aware of the ID points and have been taking great effort to get spread tail photographs of these birds. Calliope Hummingbird Selasphorus calliope (8) ● 2014-069. 14 - 15 October 2013. Cape May,
Cape May Co. M. O’Brien*(ph), K. Lukens*(ph), M. Crewe(ph), D. Freiday(ph).
● 2014-076. 9 – 11 November 2013. Carteret, Middlesex Co. D. Gadomski(ph).
Records of Western species of hummingbirds have become more common throughout the East over the
past decade or so, and this species is no exception. While not annual in the state, there are a half dozen records since 1996. Both of these birds were nicely photographed.
This immature Calliope Hummingbird was identified from photos based on a combination of characters, including small size, short tail, buffy flanks and white patch above the gape. Photo/D. Gadomski. Selasphorus hummingbird Selasphorus sp. (7) ● 2014-078. 16 November 2013 – 7 January 2014.
Middletown, Monmouth Co. D. Temple(ph). ● 2014-084. 23 November 2013. Princeton,
Mercer Co. D. Tattoni(specimen). Identification of non-adult male selasphorus hummingbirds is a major birding challenge. These 3 records simply had to be left at identification to genus. Crested Caracara Caracara cheriway (5) ● 2008-012. 7 May 2007. Sandy Hook, Monmouth
Co. S. Barnes*. ● 2013-045a. 8 – 13 September 2012. West
Windsor, Mercer Co. V. Nichnadowicz*, m.ob. ● 2013-045b. 12 October 2012. Columbus,
Burlington Co. S. Sobosinski*. ● 2014-005a. 10 – 13 January 2013. Cape May,
Cape May Co. C. Bryan, M. O’Brien*(ph), K. Lukens(ph), K. Horn, R. Horn, L. Scachetti(ph).
● 2014-005b. 20 January 2013. Cape May Court House, Cape May Co. A. Lamoreaux*(ph), J. Lefever, K. Horn, R. Horn, W. Cairo.
● 2014-007a. 14 January 2013. New Gretna, Burlington Co. H. Troughton*, P. Sabinin(ph).
● 2014-007b. 6 – 12 February 2013. Galloway Twp., Atlantic Co. J. Connor*(ph), L. Block, L. Scacchetti(ph), B. McMahon(ph).
● 2014-010. 7 January – 26 May 2013. Pilesgrove
Twp., Salem Co. F. Sorbino*(ph), D. Bittle, J. Palumbo, J. Provo(ph), m.ob.
Among the flurry of records of Crested Caracara in early 2013, this individual spent four days in Cape May before relocating to Cape May Court House. Photo/L. Scacchetti. The story of Crested Caracara in New Jersey has been fascinating and will undoubtedly continue to evolve in the years to come. Given the recent uptick of sightings in New Jersey and throughout the Northeast, the Committee voted to add the species to the official state list. A strong effort was put forth to attempt to lump sightings that likely referred to long-staying individuals roaming large areas. This resulted in the acceptance of four individuals noted between September 2012 and May 2013. Upon adding Crested Caracara to the official state list, the Committee also re-assessed an historical report from Sandy Hook during May 2007. That record was also accepted and becomes the first state record. Observers are strongly encouraged to thoroughly document future encounters with this species. Detailed descriptions and photographs of plumage and flight feather condition may be useful for differentiating individual birds and helping us learn more about the species’ occurrences and movements.
Say's Phoebe Sayornis saya (20) ● 2014-065. 3 September 2013. Cape May, Cape
May Co. T. Reed*(ph), K. Lukens*(ph). There are now 20 records of this species for the state, all but three in the fall. This bird appeared for just one day but was well photographed. Say’s Phoebes have now occurred in five of the past seven years.
Following the usual pattern for Say’s Phoebes in New Jersey, this bird was a one-day wonder. Unlike most visitors of the species, it was a very worn adult. Photo/K. Lukens Ash-throated Flycatcher Myiarchus cinerascens (59) ● 2014-052. 15 June 2013. Hunterdon Co. R.
Kane*. ● 2014-094. 27 December 2013 – 1 January 2014.
Cape May, Cape May Co. A. Mindel, M. O’Brien*(ph), K. Lukens*(ph), S. Galick(ph), N. Kontonicolas.
The December to January record of this species was late but not unheard of. The June record, however, was unprecedented. This bird was not photographed, but extensive field notes including descriptions of the flight feathers, coloration, voice, along with the quality and duration of the observation convinced the Committee to vote for acceptance. Gray Kingbird Tyrannus dominicensis (15) ● 2014-045. 25 May 2013. Forsythe NWR, Atlantic
Co. B. Mazur, W. Mazur*(ph). ● 2014-070. 17 October 2013. Forsythe NWR,
Atlantic Co. C. DeWaghe, G. DeWaghe*(ph), et al.
Two Gray Kingbirds in one year is highly unusual, although it has happened twice before. Unlike those previous occurrences, these records came from the same location but at different seasons. Both were one-day wonders, the first being seen only by the finders, while the second lingered all afternoon to be enjoyed by many.
The second of two Gray Kingbirds at Forsythe NWR in 2013, this worn adult spent the afternoon of October 17 being seen by numerous observers. Photo/G. DeWaghe Scissor-tailed Flycatcher Tyrannus forficatus (55) ● 2014-035. 12 May 2013. Cape May, Cape May
Co. V. Elia, K. Lukens*(ph), m.ob. ● 2014-037. 13 May 2013. Lenape Park, Union
Co. M. LoManto(ph). • 2014-044. 25 – 26 May 2013. Cape May, Cape
May Co. T. Baxter, K. Lukens*(ph), m.ob. • 2014-061. 4 – 13 August 2013. White’s Bog,
Burlington Co. L. Zirlin*(ph), S. Zirlin, B. Laboy, D. Beer, m.ob.
Scissor-tailed Flycatcher has a widespread vagrancy pattern throughout the Atlantic Coast, with most of the records occurring during the spring. Four of these unmistakable vagrants were identified in New Jersey during 2013, with all records well supported with photographs, and written documentation. All but one of the sightings were during the Spring, two in Cape May, and one in Union County. The bird from White’s Bog is interesting in that it occurred during the summer, a time when few vagrant records are reported for this species. Bell's Vireo Vireo bellii (9) • 2014-081. 18 October 2013. Cape May, Cape May
Co. M. Addicks(ph). A young birder in a group being led by Richard Crossley photographed this secretive Vireo. While in the field this birder was taking photos of as many birds as he could, it wasn’t until going through all of the photos at the end of the day that Richard noticed the remarkable photo of a Bell’s Vireo taken near the
hawk watch platform. This bird escaped the eyes of a rather large group of highly capable birders on the platform that day; if not for the photos this bird may have gone unnoticed. Extralimital records of Bell’s Vireo have been increasing in the East, perhaps due to expansion, or shift, of breeding range to the north and east. Careful study and documentation of fall vireos may help in adding more records of this species to the New Jersey avifaunal list, and will also aid in scientific inquiry regarding change in distribution. Brown-headed Nuthatch Sitta pusilla (3) • 2014-036. 4 June 2013. Cape May, Cape May Co.
S. Galick*, J. Nemeth. This is only the third confirmed record of Brown-headed Nuthatch in New Jersey despite the species breeding as close as southern Delaware. Although this bird was observed briefly, it was by two experienced birders who gave an accurate description of call note and physical description of bird. This bird was observed within a short distance from where the two previous sightings of Brown-headed Nuthatch occurred in 2005 and 2010. Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe (25) • 2014-068. 9 October 2013. Tuckerton, Ocean Co.
P. Mooney(ph). An excellent photo of this Northern Wheatear helped with its acceptance by the Committee, although a description of the bird and the circumstances surrounding its discovery would have provided further support. This is the second year in a row that Northern Wheatear has been found in New Jersey, with the two individuals discovered in 2012 being the first since 2009. Black-throated Gray Warbler Setophaga nigrescens (23) • 2014-066. 27 September 2013. Glenhurst
Meadows, Somerset Co. K. Bolton (ph), A.Cunniffe.
Of the western vagrant warblers, Black-throated Gray has been the most commonly occurring species, with this bird from Somerset being the twenty-third accepted record. Most sightings of Black-throated Gray Warbler are from coastal migrant traps; however, this bird was observed and photographed at
an inland site in Somerset County. All but two of the Black-throated Gray Warbler sightings in New Jersey have occurred during fall through early winter. Le Conte's Sparrow Ammodramus leconteii (39) • 2014-074. 2 November 2013. Sandy Hook,
Monmouth Co. S. Barnes, T. Anderson(ph). • 2014-102. 26 October 2013. Wallkill NWR, Sussex
Co. Mearns Bird Club, M. Buskey(ph). This attractive skulker can be difficult to detect, and difficult to observe for long periods of time once found. Both of these birds were well photographed, although write-ups to the Committee were lacking. The Sandy Hook bird showed itself several times and allowed for excellent photographs, and was viewed by a small group of observers after initial discovery. Twelve of the thirty-six New Jersey records have come from Sandy Hook. The bird from Wallkill was also observed by a group of birders, and seen as close as ten feet away. “Gambel’s” White-crowned Sparrow Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii (Since 1996)(14) • 2014-109. 27 October 2013. Cape May, Cape May
Co. V. Elia, T. Reed*(ph), M. O’Brien(ph). • 2014-110. 29 October 2013. Sandy Hook,
Monmouth Co. T. Anderson (ph). Both records were of adult birds. The bird photographed at Cape May was eventually observed by many, whereas the bird from Sandy Hook was reported by a lone observer who provided photos and descriptions. Since 1996, fourteen records have been accepted by the Committee, although it’s possible that many New Jersey birders are unaware that the “Gambel’s” subspecies is a review species. “Oregon” Dark-eyed Junco Junco hyemalis oreganus group (since 1996)(13) • 2014-015. 28 January – 9 March 2013. Somerset,
Somerset Co. C. Blumig*(ph). • 2014-039. 12 April 2013. Morris County. L.
Baum*(ph). Through 2009 there were eleven accepted records of “Oregon” Dark-eyed Junco, so having two records in one year is unusual. Reports of “Oregon” Juncos are not uncommon, but these reports are often misidentified female Slate-colored Juncos (Hyemalis group). Photos and descriptions of both birds were
presented to the Committee. The Somerset bird was the strongest candidate of the two to belong to the oreganus group, with identification being more straightforward than the Morris County bird. The Junco from Morris County was a bit more difficult, with mention of intergrades, and from which particular subspecies it may belong, montanus or cismontanus (technically a Hyemalis), entering the discussion. After lengthy debate it was agreed that both birds were “Oregon” juncos. Western Tanager Piranga ludoviciana (44) • 2014-022. 20 – 31 March 2013. Cape May, Cape
May Co. K. Lukens*(ph), M. Crewe, B. McMahon(ph), M. Pasquarello*, m.ob.
This Western Tanager, a female, lingered for over a week and was well photographed and observed by many. Female Western Tanagers can be confused with orioles, and other normally occurring tanagers, but this bird was well documented and allowed for extended looks and photographs. Interesting is that most of the forty-four records of Western Tanager are Fall and Winter birds, with only several occurring during the Spring. Was this bird a new arrival, or a holdover from winter that escaped detection? Lazuli Bunting Passerina amoena (1) • 2014-013. 16 – 26 January 2013. Spruce Run Res.,
Hunterdon Co. R. Fergus*, F. Sencher*(ph), S. Galick(ph), L. Scacchetti(ph), A. Mart.
Lazuli Bunting at Spruce Run Reservoir, a first for New Jersey. Photo/ S. Galick
New Jersey’s first state record was an incredible find. This bird was originally found by a very experienced birder, but thought to be an indigo bunting. Described as an “alien” looking bird that didn’t quite fit for Indigo Bunting, the initial observer summoned other
birders to help find this bird in case it was something more unexpected. Finding an Indigo Bunting in January is unusual enough, one that looks odd is call for further study. Fortunately, this bird was relocated; excellent descriptions and photos from multiple observers were submitted to help support the identification. It is separated from Indigo Bunting by a bright-buffy-unstreaked breast, grayish throat, and well defined wingbars. Lazuli-Indigo Bunting hybrids are fairly common where their ranges overlap, but this bird did not show any characteristics that would suggest it was anything but a pure Lazuli Bunting. Although a first for New Jersey Lazuli Bunting does have a vagrancy pattern on the east coast, with birds appearing sporadically from Maine to Florida. Most Lazuli Buntings observed during the winter months have been at feeder stations, but the bird at Spruce Run was not associated with feeders. Painted Bunting Passerina ciris (47) • 2014-014. 9 February 2013. Manahawkin, Ocean
County. Female G. Phillips (ph). • 2014-025. 27 March – 4 April 2013. Somerset,
Somerset County. Male. K. Reid*(ph). • 2014-033. 10 May 2013. Sandy Hook, Monmouth
Co. Female. G. Eschenbach, L. Matula, S. Barnes, N. Kazanjian(ph).
• 2014-040. 12 May 2013. Vineland, Cumberland Co. Male. R. McKenzie*(ph).
• 2014-096. 23 December 2013 – 5 January 2014. Middletown, Monmouth Co. Female. C. Bromwich, T. Anderson*(ph), L. Mack(ph), J. Peterson, m.ob.
Painted Bunting continues its strong showing in New Jersey with five accepted records for 2013, mirroring the number of individuals from 2011. Over the past nine years there have been twenty-one records of Painted Bunting in New Jersey. All but one of the birds in 2013 were discovered at feeders, with the Somerset and Middletown birds remaining at the locations for more than one week. Roughly half of the Painted Bunting sightings in New Jersey have occurred during the winter, that trend continues as two of these birds were winter sightings, with the bird from Somerset likely being a wintering individual as well.
Painted Buntings are occurring with increasing frequency in New Jersey, both males and females. This young male, showing patches of blue, spent almost two weeks at a Middletown feeder. Photo/L. Mack. Brewer’s Blackbird Euphagus cyanocephalus (19) • 2014-024. 1 April 2013. Salem County. (3 birds) T.
Johnson*(ph). • 2014-111. 23 November 2013. Cape May, Cape
May Co. Female. T. Reed*. Brewer’s Blackbird has been recorded in New Jersey for three years in a row. Almost all of the accepted records of Brewer’s Blackbird have come from Salem County and Cape Island, these birds followed that tradition. The three birds in Salem County, two males and one female, were frequenting a feed pen and were well photographed. On the heels of a strong cold front, the bird from Cape May Point took flight from the dunes near the hawk watch platform and flew within 20 yards of the observer, calling frequently as it passed over. Pine Grosbeak Pinicola enucleator (Since 2006) (3) • 2014-002. 8 January 2013. Morris County. (4
birds). M. Britt*. This is the third accepted record of Pine Grosbeak since the species was added to the review list in 2006. These four birds, one male and three females, were well described by an experienced observer, including descriptions of call notes. Irruptions of Pine Grosbeak into New Jersey occur far less frequently than they once did, but the species has now been found in New Jersey for two years in a row.
NOT ACCEPTED Barnacle Goose Branta leucopsis • 2014-016. 24 February 2103. Dorbrook Park,
Monmouth Co. • 2014-091. 24 November 2013. Avalon, Cape
May Co. The Dorbrook bird was subsequently identified as a domestic goose. The report of the Avalon bird generated much discussion among the Committee. It was seen overhead with a flock of Snow Geese and initially identified as a Blue Goose. After later study of field guides, the observers concluded that it was a Barnacle Goose. A majority of the Committee were not completely convinced of the ID and voted not to accept. Anhinga Anhinga anhinga • 2014-042. 22 & 26 May 2013. Great Swamp
NWR, Morris Co. The Committee was divided on the two reports of this tricky species, but the majority felt that the descriptions were too weak to provide convincing evidence of the sighting. White-faced Ibis Plegadis chihi • 2014-049. 24 April 2013. Barnegat, Ocean Co. In another split decision, several members of the Committee were concerned that the details submitted were inadequate to confirm the report. Swainson’s Hawk Buteo swainsoni • 2014-077. 15 November 2013. Forsythe NWR,
Atlantic Co. Unfortunately, no details were provided to support the report of this bird. Purple Gallinule Porphyrio martinicus • 2014-057. 7 July 2013. Whitesbog, Ocean Co. Several members of the Committee were not convinced by the description and the report did not receive enough votes for acceptance. Pacific Golden-Plover Pluvialis fulva • 2014-067. 3 August 2013. Forsythe NWR,
Atlantic Co.
This report generated the greatest amount of discussion of any reviewed during the year. That the bird was a golden-plover in breeding plumage was not in doubt. However, the two distant and blurry photos raised doubts among the Committee members and differing opinions from outside experts as to which species was involved. Given this uncertainty, a majority of the Committee voted not to accept the sighting as Pacific Golden-Plover. Red Phalarope Phalaropus fulicarius • 2014-050. 23 February 2013. Cape May, Cape
May Co. The Committee was divided on whether or not the details submitted were sufficient to confirm the identity of this shorebird, which was seen only fleetingly and at some distance. Ross’s Gull Rhodostethia rosea • 2014-080. 17 November 2013. Manasquan Inlet,
Ocean Co. This tantalizing report of a bird seen flying off Manasquan Inlet the morning of 17 November was discussed in detail. It was observed for 4 – 5 minutes at an estimated distance of 200 – 300 yards under poor lighting conditions. Only one of two observers had a telescope. That observer is convinced of its identity as Ross’s Gull, while the other, who has previous experience with the species, is not. In view of this uncertainty, a majority of the Committee voted not to accept the report of this extremely rare species. Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea • 2014-060. 4 July 2013. Sandy Hook, Monmouth
Co. The photograph of this adult tern at Sandy Hook generated much discussion among the Committee and led to a request for opinions from outside experts. Consensus is that, although the bird in the photo resembles an Arctic Tern at first glance, details of the plumage (especially primary molt pattern) and appearance favor Common Tern. Because of this uncertainty, the Committee chose not to accept the record as Arctic Tern.
Eurasian Collared-Dove Streptopelia decaocto • 2014-038. 25 April 2013. Camden, Camden Co. A flyover bird seen under unfavorable lighting conditions was definitely not a Mourning Dove, but the details are too limited to accept for a species that is still very rare in New Jersey. Selasphorus hummingbird Selasphorus sp. • 2014-104. 26 October 2013. Del Haven, Cape
May Co. No photograph or documentation was submitted for this report. Bell’s Vireo Vireo bellii • 2014-064. 24 – 25 August 2013. Cape May, Cape
May Co. This bird was identified on the basis of its call and only briefly seen. The Committee did not believe that the description of the call was sufficient to confirm identification of this very rare species. Brown-headed Nuthatch Sitta pusilla • 2014-027. 27 April 2013. Cape May, Cape May
Co. • 2014-051. 12 May 2013. Cape May, Cape May
Co. The report from Cape May Point was of a heard-only bird, which was not deemed acceptable by the Committee because of the potential confusion with Red-breasted Nuthatch. Photos of the second bird appear to show a pale Red-breasted Nuthatch. Townsend’s Warbler Setophaga townsendi • 2014-046. 26 May 2013. Cape May, Cape May
Co. The original observer retracted the identification after experts reviewing the photo thought it to be some kind of hybrid not involving Townsend’s Warbler. Henslow’s Sparrow Ammodramus henslowii • 2014-071. 26 October 2013. Cold Brook
Preserve, Hunterdon Co. The written details of the bird by one observer appeared to be a reasonable description of Henslow’s Sparrow, but the bird was only identified the next day after consulting field guides. A photograph provided
to the Committee is that of a Savannah Sparrow. Western Tanager Piranga ludoviciana • 2014-041. 21 May 2013. Stillwater, Warren Co. • 2014-090. 2 December 2013. Howell, Ocean Co. The Stillwater sighting was a very brief (5-second) view of a possible female Western Tanager at a bird feeder. Due to the brevity of the sighting and the resulting lack of sufficient details for a species that is very rare in spring, the Committee chose not to accept the report. A photograph of the Howell bird, which was coming to a hummingbird feeder, showed it to be a young Baltimore Oriole.
