Date: 8/17/25 4:02 pm From: Erika Wilson <terika88...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Sierra Vista EOP--17 Aug 2025
Hi, birders,
This morning 6 locals and 2 birders from Nebraska walked the Sierra Vista
EOP dikes, clocking up 66 species. A shoulder week between summer and fall,
with confirmed breeding competing with new arrivals.
Two adult Pied-billed Grebes were watching over 6 stripe-headed young
gathered at the base of a cattail thicket. While nearby, in the same
impoundment, an adult Common Coot swam around its downy chick as it
explored the edge between cattails and open water. Last week there was an
early Green-winged Teal, this week there were four, showing off their
bright green speculums in rapid flight. A series of sharp contact notes
revealed a Marsh Wren, the first of the fall. And the Yellow-headed
Blackbird flock working the sludge mats swelled to at least 140 birds. A
Neotropic Cormorant dropped in, took off, circled, dropped down again--its
third visit this summer.
Lazuli Buntings and Blue Grosbeaks were everywhere. Adding spice to the mix
were several Black-headed Grosbeaks, Western Tanager, Bullock's Orioles,
and a Virginia's Warbler. This last was the 5th EOP record, and the 1st
fall record for the species.
Bird walks behind the locked gates of the Sierra Vista EOP occur every
Sunday morning. For the summer months (June-August) walks start
promptly at *6:00
a.m.* Arrive early at the EOP Bird Viewing Platform to sign in with the
guide--group size is limited to fifteen. Late arrivals will not have access
behind the locked gates. Scopes are useful. Bring a hat and water--there is
no shade nor any amenities on the walk route. There is a chem toilet in the
parking area.
The EOP is located just east (~ 3 miles) of Sierra Vista on AZ Hwy 90. Look
for the Brua Animal Care Center and the Wildlife Viewing signs on the north
side of Hwy 90. Turn left (north) and proceed to the bird viewing platform.
Note that Google Maps may direct you to the wrong entrance.
