Date: 8/31/25 4:06 pm From: Erika Wilson <terika88...> Subject: [AZNMbirds] SEAZ: Sierra Vista EOP--31 Aug 2025
Hi, birders,
Six locals set out to walk the Sierra Vista EOP dikes on an ordinary
morning which turned into an extra-ordinary morning when a Lewis's
Woodpecker flew by, a new species for the EOP Sunday bird walks. The final
tally was a gratifying 67 species, with a nice mix of waterbirds, from
ducks to rails, to shorebirds and herons.
Duck diversity is climbing, with three species of teal and N. Shoveler
joining the usual Mexican Ducks and Ruddy Ducks. Marsh birds included a new
season high of 9 Sora, several showing off in plain sight. An adult Com.
Gallinule with its bright red bill tipped with equally bright yellow, swam
across open water, while 8 Am. Coots drifted into the cattails. Shorebirds
were represented by singles of Black-necked Stilt, Spotted Sandpiper,
Lesser Yellowlegs, Least Sandpiper, and 5 Killdeer. Long-legged waders
included White-faced Ibis, Black-crowned Night-Herons, Green Herons, and
the ever present Great Blue Herons.
The highlight of the walk, however, was a flying Lewis's Woodpecker, headed
east toward the river. This dark bird's unique flight pattern--loose,
floppy wing beats like a crow, immediately identified it, and a pinkish
wine blush on the belly, seen briefly before its flight angle turned away
from us, clinched the identification. This is a first record for the
EOP. Other birds of interest were 2 MacGillivray's Warblers, a Wilson's
Warbler, and the first Vesper Sparrows of the fall.
NOTE: Walks in September begin at *7:00* a.m.
Bird walks behind the locked gates of the Sierra Vista EOP occur every
Sunday morning. For the autumn months (September-November) walks start
promptly at *7:00 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.
