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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Pacific Golden-Plover (Pluvialis fulva) (1)
- Reported Oct 21, 2025 16:15 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Old Creek--Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8875608&<ll...>,-120.8875608 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280783603 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile bird (Tom Edell, 10/20/25) was first observed on beach about 300 yards south of creek mouth being relentlessly harassed by lone Heerman's Gull - thanks to Ann Stockert for location alert earlier this afternoon. After Heerman's Gull eventually chased this bird from the beach, the plover flew to narrow strip of water in front of row of houses above sea-walls where it actively feed during our visit. This bird's crown was streaked creamy white, brown and yellow and it had a pronounced whitish supercilium that was conspicuous even at considerable distance, a well defined ear-spot, pale, unstreaked throat with dark band at top of darker brown patterned breast. The bird was paler below with light grayish-brown, blurry patterning on sides and flanks. The center of the back was mostly dark brown patterned with distinct yellow flecks while the sides of the upper back were lighter grayish-brown patterned."
Pacific Golden-Plover (Pluvialis fulva) (1)
- Reported Oct 21, 2025 07:53 by Tom Edell
- Old Creek--Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8875608&<ll...>,-120.8875608 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280671527 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile from yesterday. Denser overcast/fog today. I did not study it as well today but took time to note the partially gold colored back and yellow face, dark cap and pale supercilium. (Photos)"
Pacific Golden-Plover (Pluvialis fulva) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 20, 2025 16:28 by Lou McGonagill
- Old Creek--Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8875608&<ll...>,-120.8875608 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280709639 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvie found earlier by T Edell. Very cooperative bird with much aloha, coming within mere feet of us at times! Very glad to see it before it gets scared off by beachgoers/dogs."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 21, 2025 08:25 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280705378 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing well-documented lady warbler. Foraging in same tree with Blackburnian. Black-and-white striped back, head, wings. Double-white wingbar. Photos"
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 21, 2025 08:25 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280705378 - Media: 11 Photos
- Comments: "First park record of this species! Large warbler resembling a Townsend’s, though more golden-orange in its coloration, especially on throat. Also: a black-and-white striped back, as well as a trangular olive-brown cheek patch. The underside was white except for its yellowy breast and dark flank streaking, which was finer in streaks than a Townsy. The crown was darkish, the eyeline was black, and supercilium yellow. Double-white wingbars. Very cooperative bird that would let me get close while it foraged low in a sycamore (I think). It eventually moved higher up. Was in mixed flock with black-and-white warbler and two other warbler species. Vid: https://bsky.app/profile/nicholasbelardes.bsky.social/post/3m3qf5npwhc2r"
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Pacific Golden-Plover (Pluvialis fulva) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 20, 2025 16:28 by Reef Comer
- Old Creek--Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8875608&<ll...>,-120.8875608 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280579829 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvie found earlier by T Edell. Very cooperative bird with much aloha, coming within mere feet of us at times! Very glad to see it before it gets scared off by beachgoers/dogs."
Pacific Golden-Plover (Pluvialis fulva) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 20, 2025 15:14 by Tom Edell
- Old Creek--Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8875608&<ll...>,-120.8875608 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280566123 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "I first spotted this plover when it emerged from the grasses at the inland extent of the shallow beach lagoon. I was able to see golden color on the back and face. While waiting for it to come out into the open someone walked through the area and flushed the bird. After flying around for maybe a minute it landed in front of me at the edge of the beach lagoon where I photographed it. Along with the golden colored feathers on the back and the golden wash on the face the bird had a pale supercilium and an obvious dark ear spot. The head had a dark cap with pale streaks. The light breast and sides were was mottled with brown and the breast had a buffy band below the mottling. The primary tips were dark. Photos show four visible primary tips though they show only three extending past the longest tertial and tail. Photos also appear to show oil on the tail and on at least one primary. Could his bird be missing a tertail? Comparing this bird with my past American Plover photos show a slightly longer and perhaps stouter bill and perhaps longer legs though that is not as evident. Photo"
Clay-colored Sparrow (Spizella pallida) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 20, 2025 15:14 by Tom Edell
- Old Creek--Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8875608&<ll...>,-120.8875608 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280566123 - Comments: "This small skulky bird was first flushed from low grassy vegetation on the north side of the lagoon. It landed on the beach next to a small low plant and immediately disappeared into the plant. This was repeated around the beach from the lagoon to the northern parking lot until the bird flew inland toward the willows where I lost it. In several short views I was able to see a clear gray nape, pale supercilium, small bill, and buffy face. I left this bird to try for better photos of the Pacific Golden-Plover and after that returned to look for it. It flushed into a willow where I was able to see a pale breast with buffy upper sides and a pale belly before it dropped down into the low vegetation. White in the willow it was clearly smaller than the several House Finches behind it. Ann and I searched for the bird but did not find it. No photos were taken."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1)
- Reported Oct 19, 2025 12:11 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Arroyo Del Puerto North Of Slo San Simeon Bridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1888395&<ll...>,-121.1888395 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280429611 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird (Petra & Jack Clayton, 10/11/25) - Overall slightly grayer than nearby juvenile Black-crowned Night Heron. This bird had a large, heavy and blunt steel gray bill, prominent orange iris, gray crown, auriculars and nape and was brownish/gray on back with small triangular patterning on wing coverts and gray/dull yellowish legs."
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1)
- Reported Oct 19, 2025 08:26 by Christine Hogue
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280423214 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Bright yellow belly, large bill, deeply forked brown tail, light brown wings w short primaries, greenish back. Perched atop a dead conifer near the lake and brick firepit area. Photos."
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 16, 2025 08:17 by Lou McGonagill
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280423190 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing 1st year bird in cattail patches up creek from bridge. Called several times and thought I may have heard a second, but there were 2 BLPH’s in the area too."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 16:45 by Lou McGonagill
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280423180 - Comments: "Third times the charm (again)! Continuing HY in cherry hedge. Ridiculously shy at times, but eventually managed decent looks. Large, chunky, mostly golden-yellow warbler with pale gray bill, large black eye, greenish back, bluish-gray wings, and white undertail coverts. Occasionally giving somewhat squeaky sounding metallic call. Very unusual habitat for this species, even for a vagrant, but does have an abundant food source!"
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 16:45 by Lou McGonagill
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280423180 - Comments: "Continuing in cherry hedge. Overall greenish leiothlypis with dark eyeline, pale supercillium, greenish upperside, yellowish throat, and mostly white undertail coverts."
Black-headed Grosbeak (Pheucticus melanocephalus) (1)
- Reported Oct 19, 2025 09:00 by sue girard
- 535 cory way / yard list, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.5001819&<ll...>,-120.5001819 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280354237 - Comments: "FIRST WINTER MALE when checked against SIbley illust. Briefly moving through the open and rangy Prunus hedge looking for any remaining hanging fruits but none remain except widely scattered on the ground. Good bright indirect light 10 am, (high thin cloud cover).
Eyed the drip bath (occupied by a Mockingbird) but then flew off without using. Deeply colored head markings, rusty breast and underside, no streaking. Appeared alone mid morning.
No photo available, but 10 second pose at end of bare branchlet made for pos ID.
BHGB are normal in my yard from late July to late Sept, depending on timing of Prunus lyonnii fruit crop. Spring of '25 crop was good 5 weeks late--first crop failed, 2nd crop, lighter than normal and 4 weeks later than normal ."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Savannah Sparrow (Large-billed) (Passerculus sandwichensis rostratus/atratus) (1)
- Reported Oct 18, 2025 12:45 by Lucas Corneliussen
- Santa Maria River Estuary (SLO Co.), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6456667&<ll...>,-120.6456667 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280215608 - Comments: "Very nice. Large SAVS with heavy bill, paler overall than typical SAVS with pale streaking and very limited yellow in the lores. Photos by Lou."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 17, 2025 09:07 by Doug Drynan
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280178255 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "continuing bird previously observed in this area many times. appeared to be an immature. small yellow green warbler with short tail and distinctive light color supercillium and dark eye stripe. I only had quick views of the back, but it looked fairly greenish. when I zoomed in on my photos, I could see the pale tips on the greater coverts. Under-tail coverts were white. I could not distinguish any streaking on the sides or breast. it was eating cherries in the clump of cherry trees where the prothonotary warbler had been seen. I had no luck observing a prothonotary in this location today or yesterday."
Virginia's Warbler (Leiothlypis virginiae) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 18, 2025 12:20 by Kaaren Perry
- Morro Bay yard, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.844846&<ll...>,-120.844846 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280188402 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Small warbler, white eyeing, medium gray upper parts, yellow highlights on undertail and slight yellow blush on upper breast. Bird flew directly to the bird fountain to bathe and then spent a few minutes foraging in the bushes. This is the first I've seen at this location since Sept 23, 2021. Bird at that time was also attracted to the bath."
Palm Warbler (Setophaga palmarum) (1)
- Reported Oct 18, 2025 13:34 by Alexander Yan
- Santa Rosa Creek Trail--Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1005139&<ll...>,-121.1005139 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S280187104 - Comments: "Seen with a bunch of mostly OCWAs in the weedy area near the water treatment plant entrance, next to the piles of construction debris 35.56772° N, 121.10373° W. Brownish, dull colored warbler & bright yellow rear. Had poor looks of the face but some indications of a palm supercilious and black eyeline."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 10/18/25 9:30 pm From: Claudia Freitas via groups.io <cfreitas365...> Subject: Re: [slocobirding] Time for a bath! Morro Bay yard
You have an amazing cast of characters and I know how small your area is!
It astounds me! I have both a front and rear moving water fountain snd
seed feeder. I feel lucky to have seen over 130 species but I am still
astounded how yothers see
Claudia
On Sat, Oct 18, 2025 at 4:28 PM Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1=
<att.net...> wrote:
> Around noon time today our bird bath/fountain became a local attraction
> for a few bird species. First arrived a group of 12 Bushtits, all crowding
> and splashing together in the moving water. They were followed by a male
> Townsend's Warbler, a pair of Orange-crowns and a pair of Yellow-rumps. A
> Ruby-crowned Kinglet visited to bathe and soon joined by an Anna's
> Hummingbird. White-crowned and Golden-crowned and a Black Phoebe also
> stopped by during bath time for a drink. Indeed a busy few minutes at the
> fountain.
>
> The main attraction was a lovely little *Virginia's Warbler*, definitely
> a treat to see for this location. The last VAWA seen in our yard was
> September, 23, 2021.
>
> VIrginia's Warbler photo now uploaded to flickr:
> https://www.flickr.com/photos/kaarenp/54863837184/in/datetaken-public/ >
> Kaaren Perry
> Morro Bay
> flickr.com <http://www.flickr.com/photos/kaarenp/> > <http://www.flickr.com/photos/kaarenp/> > <http://www.flickr.com/photos/kaarenp/> >
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
Date: 10/18/25 4:28 pm From: Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1...> Subject: [slocobirding] Time for a bath! Morro Bay yard
Around noon time today our bird bath/fountain became a local attraction for a few bird species. First arrived a group of 12 Bushtits, all crowding and splashing together in the moving water. They were followed by a male Townsend's Warbler, a pair of Orange-crowns and a pair of Yellow-rumps. A Ruby-crowned Kinglet visited to bathe and soon joined by an Anna's Hummingbird. White-crowned and Golden-crowned and a Black Phoebe also stopped by during bath time for a drink. Indeed a busy few minutes at the fountain.
The main attraction was a lovely little Virginia's Warbler, definitely a treat to see for this location. The last VAWA seen in our yard was September, 23, 2021.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Marbled Murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 17, 2025 11:25 by Terri Osborn
- Hwy 1 Vista Point south of San Simeon Ck., San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1232341&<ll...>,-121.1232341 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279977541 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Reported earlier today by Tom Edell. Two Marbled Murrelets were seen floating and occasionally diving between the offshore kelp beds. They stayed close together. They were smaller than the nearby Common Murres. They had a short beak, a white face, throat and chest, a dark cap extending to eye line, a thin stripe down the nape to a dark back, a white patch on the side and a whitish belly. Tail was short and pointed up. Tom stopped by location while I was there and confirmed ID. (Poor long distance photos for identification.)"
Marbled Murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus) (3) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 17, 2025 07:46 by Tom Edell
- Hwy 1 Vista point south of San Simeon Ck, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.12334&<ll...>,-121.12334 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279964511 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "While scoping the offshore waters from a high vantage point, I found two together but after posting the birds looked back to see three together. They were swimming around the offshore kelp and did not dive while in view. I first noticed their small size compared to the Red-throated Loons and gulls I previously viewed. Overall they were small birds, dark above and white below, with very short dark bills and cocked tails that help show their white undertail coverts. Their white collars and dark crowns really stood out in the morning light. The dark crowns extended down to around the eyes and there was a thin dark line extending down the nape from the rear of the crown to the back. I could not see the white in the scapulars very well. I managed a few distant photos that I cropped to better show details."
Western Cattle-Egret (Ardea ibis) (1)
- Reported Oct 17, 2025 18:22 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Old Creek--Cayucos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8875608&<ll...>,-120.8875608 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279981557 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Small, nearly all white wader with bright yellow iris, lores, short, blunt bill and dull, yellowish legs. Observed in creek mouth lagoon illuminated by last rays of setting sun."
Cassin's Vireo (Vireo cassinii) (1)
- Reported Oct 17, 2025 08:00 by Kevin Zimmer
- KJZ yard, Garcia Rd, Atascadero, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.7064838&<ll...>,-120.7064838 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279981391 - Comments: "Seen briefly as it hopped through the spruce tree above the fountain over our pond at around 0930h. Typical thickish vireo bill and rather sluggish movements; entirely olive above, with only slightly grayer cast to crown; bold white 'spectacles', including a complete eyering (not broken at top like a Hutton's Vireo); lacked the stark contrast between dark auriculars and white throat as would be expected from the much rarer Blue-headed Vireo; two rather bold white wingbars and duller whitish edging to folded remiges; mostly pale below, with slight greenish-yellow wash to the sides. I typically see a few of these in the yard each year, more often in spring, when they are often singing, but I believe this was the first one for the yard this year."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 11:05 by Petra Clayton
- San Simeon: San Simeon Road / Arroyo del Puerto, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1890228&<ll...>,-121.1890228 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279621971 - Media: 12 Photos
- Comments: "First-ever eBird report of this species at this location.
Recent eBird reports in the general area: 9/14/2025: San Simeon Point / 9/25/2025: Little Pico Creek.
Boldly streaked black and white pattern; black upperparts with white streaks; grayish-white face; white eyering; eyeline starting behind the eye; black crown with broad white center stripe; broad white supercilium; white throat and underparts; black streaks on the flanks; black spots on the undertail; two white wingbars; sharply pointed bill.
Observed east of the Arroyo del Puerto bridge, quickly moving along bare branches at the side of the creek and later briefly seen on top of the fence on the west side of the bridge.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54858401858/in/dateposted-public/" title="Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia), San Simeon, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54858401858_afb09a113f_z.jpg" alt="Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia), San Simeon, CA" /></a>"
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Western Kingbird (Tyrannus verticalis) (1)
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 15:06 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Mitchell Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6579655&<ll...>,-120.6579655 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279686038 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Late season bird observed perched on power line before disappearing into large fig tree to feed with Cassin's Kingbirds. This bird showed a light gray head compared to dark-headed Cassin's Kingbirds on same wire and had a blurry dark eye-line, whitish throat and neck with white on throat and neck extending well past the eye, yellow higher on breast then would be expected for Cassin's Kingbird and white outer tail edging."
Cassin's Vireo (Vireo cassinii) (1)
- Reported Oct 16, 2025 08:04 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279739973 - Comments: "Large-ish vireo with bright white wingbars. Creamy underparts—didnt seem yellow enough for a more colorful blue-headed. Not great looks at spectacled head. Though its head was very contrasty, would have needed photos for any kind of furthur examination on throat/head contrast areas. Extremely skulky. Chased this bird to four diff trees! It finally flew into creek at far western end beyond park boundaries. No photo."
Cassin's Vireo (Vireo cassinii) (1)
- Reported Oct 16, 2025 08:04 by Torrey Gage-Tomlinson
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279743004 - Comments: "Large-ish vireo with bright white wingbars. Creamy underparts—didnt seem yellow enough for a more colorful blue-headed. Not great looks at spectacled head. Though its head was very contrasty, would have needed photos for any kind of furthur examination on throat/head contrast areas. Extremely skulky. Chased this bird to four diff trees! It finally flew into creek at far western end beyond park boundaries. No photo."
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 16, 2025 08:17 by Lou McGonagill
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279800689 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing 1st year bird in cattail patches up creek from bridge. Called several times and thought I may have heard a second, but there were 2 BLPH’s in the area too."
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 16, 2025 08:17 by Reef Comer
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279749277 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing 1st year bird in cattail patches up creek from bridge. Called several times and thought I may have heard a second, but there were 2 BLPH’s in the area too."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Oct 16, 2025 08:04 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279739973 - Comments: "She’s back! In most southeasternmost tree in park. Dark spotted white undertail coverts. Black and white striped head, wings and back. Double-white wingbars. White underside also had dark flank streaking. Photos."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Oct 16, 2025 08:04 by Torrey Gage-Tomlinson
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279743004 - Comments: "She’s back! In most southeasternmost tree in park. Dark spotted white undertail coverts. Black and white striped head, wings and back. Double-white wingbars. White underside also had dark flank streaking. Photos."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Oct 16, 2025 08:04 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279739973 - Comments: "Continuing. Same first-winter bird from yesterday seen in northwestern park areas (west of bridge). Very yellowy like a bright orange-crowned, but with yellow breast and throat and white undertail coverts and dark eyeline. No photo"
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Oct 16, 2025 08:04 by Torrey Gage-Tomlinson
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279743004 - Comments: "Continuing. Same first-winter bird from yesterday seen in northwestern park areas (west of bridge). Very yellowy like a bright orange-crowned, but with yellow breast and throat and white undertail coverts and dark eyeline. No photo"
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Short-billed Gull (Larus brachyrhynchus) (1)
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 12:30 by Tim Miller
- Rancho Marino Reserve (restricted access), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.0897564&<ll...>,-121.0897564 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279612079 - Comments: "Non-breeding adult that briefly flew in to the gull roost, but seen well in good light. Small gull with yellow legs and a light gray mantle. Warm brown smudging on head (not streaky at all). Tiny bill that was a bit darker towards tip, but definitely not “ringed”. White “pearls” above black on primaries. Fairly for the area, but not but not unheard of."
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 14, 2025 10:28 by Herb Elliott
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279423454 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "… very likely the same Yellow-crowned Night Heron found 12 Oct 2025 by Will Knowlton and Morgan Bing.
… large and mostly black bill, and darker in overall coloration than other Yellow-crowned Night Herons I have seen in SLO County."
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (2)
- Reported Oct 14, 2025 11:50 by Petra Clayton
- Tidelands Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8514118&<ll...>,-120.8514118 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279424403 - Media: 19 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juveniles. One individual was very active: Hunting and catching a crab on the rocks opposite the boat ramp and later moving around to the boat dock. - The second juvenile was perched on the smaller of the Monterey Cypress trees past the last boat ramp, where it stayed during our time there.
In the past month we have observed one juvenile at this location in the morning of 9/6/25 and again on 9/7/25, 9/8/25, 9/12/25 and 9/18/25. We observed three juveniles on 9/25/25 and 9/26/25. on 10/2/25 we observed two juveniles. On 10/7/25 and 10/8/25 we observed a single juvenile here. Yesterday (10/13/25) we again observed two individuals
One juvenile was first present here on 9/4/25 and could have been the same individual reported on 9/3/25 at the Morro Bay SP Marina.
Today's juveniles had a dark, stout bill with yellow feathers at the base of the lower mandible; small white triangular spots on the covert feathers; long legs,
Click on the image below for a Flickr video:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54856071811/in/dateposted-public/" title="Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) juvenile, Morro Bay, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54856071811_e917ca5379_z.jpg" alt="Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) juvenile, Morro Bay, CA" /></a>"
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 13, 2025 13:25 by Petra Clayton
- Tidelands Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8514118&<ll...>,-120.8514118 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279252193 - Media: 9 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juveniles. Two individual initially perched on two separate Monterey Cypress trees past the last boat ramp until one flew out and onto the boat ramp, where it stayed during the time we were there. The second juvenile stayed in the tree and preened.
In the past month we have observed one juvenile at this location in the morning of 9/6/25 and again on 9/7/25, 9/8/25, 9/12/25 and 9/18/25. We observed three juveniles on 9/25/25 and 9/26/25 and we observed two juveniles on 10/2/25. We also observed a single juvenile here on 10/7/25 and 10/8/25.
One juvenile was first present here on 9/4/25 and could have been the same individual reported on 9/3/25 at the Morro Bay SP Marina.
Today's juveniles had a dark, stout bill with yellow feathers at the base of the lower mandible; small white triangular spots on the covert feathers; long legs.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video, which includes a juvenile Black-crowned Night Heron for comparison:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54856209949/in/dateposted-public/" title="Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) juvenile, Morro Bay, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54856209949_3588c7ce78_z.jpg" alt="Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) juvenile, Morro Bay, CA" /></a>"
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (1)
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 09:30 by Roger Hammer
- Atascadero Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6667256&<ll...>,-120.6667256 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279607345 - Comments: "cont. bird found by Kevin yesterday. bird located by me, then Ben, in the same rush patch as Kevin reported. was relatively uncooperative. Ben has a great pish and stirred up some sparrow etc. activity among the reeds. Swamp was slightly smaller than the nearby Songs and similar to the nearby Lincoln's. Swamp had a lot of gray on face, sides of neck and nape; no distinctive or bold dark striping on breast or flanks, but buffy instead; head was rufous striped with gray stripe in the gap between; w/ white throat. rust on wings; tail was obscured by grass. I got wide open views of body and head for a few seconds before the bird dropped back down. White-crowned and Munia were also in the patch."
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (1)
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 07:58 by Ben Kolstad
- Atascadero Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6667256&<ll...>,-120.6667256 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279559585 - Comments: "Roger Hammer and I separately but at the same time saw a very good candidate for adult Swamp Sparrow in the rushes lining the little "bay" east of the dirt parking area on the east side of the lake.
The bird had a streaked back, gray "face," rufous cap with no prominent median stripe (ruling out juvenile WCSP, adult Song, and adult Lincoln's). No cream-colored submoustachial stripe (ruling out Lincoln's).
The bird was warier than the LISP and SOSP but did respond to pishing, just never in plain sight. (By contrast, I saw many Lincoln's and Song sparrows giving me very long looks after pishing.)
It might have just been wishful birding, but I'm convinced the bird is still present, even if I couldn't get a photo at all."
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 08:33 by Tom Edell
- Morro Creek mouth, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8624411&<ll...>,-120.8624411 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279583015 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "This bird was first seen in a patch of cattails just up creek of the pedestrian bridge and then move a little up creek to a smaller patch by the rectangular concrete pad. Having already seen a couple of Song Sparrows, this bird stood out because of is lightly streaked breast with a buffy wash. It had a reddish crown with a buffy central crown stripe and reddish wings. The auriculars were a warm buffy color and the dark line behind the eye flared posteriorly. The throat was pale as was the mustache and the flanks were buffy. The photos show yellow in the gape. It appeared to be a hatch year bird. Photos"
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 17:14 by Alexander Yan
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279611873 - Comments: "Continuing celebrity seen with many at the cherry trees around 35.267457,-120.661738. Bright yellow, green wings, and white underneath the tail. It’s ROTUND from all the amazing fruits the park provides!"
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 16:45 by Reef Comer
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279624176 - Comments: "Third times the charm (again)! Continuing HY in cherry hedge. Ridiculously shy at times, but eventually managed decent looks. Large, chunky, mostly golden-yellow warbler with pale gray bill, large black eye, greenish back, bluish-gray wings, and white undertail coverts. Occasionally giving somewhat squeaky sounding metallic call. Very unusual habitat for this species, even for a vagrant, but does have an abundant food source!"
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 16:20 by Richard Norton
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279614141 - Comments: "Larger warbler with bright yellow breast. White undertail coverts.
Seen, along with three other birders, in cherry trees near the park pedestrian entrance at Corrida and Sendero."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 13:06 by Norman Pillsbury
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279621683 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird (Nick Belardes 10/08/25) observed feeding in cherry tree grove here: (35°16'02.5"N 120°39'42.4"W). This robust warbler was noticeably larger than the Orange-crowned Warbler and Tennessee Warbler it was associating with almost non-stop and was bright yellow from head to nape and neck on top and from throat to breast and belly fading fading from yellow to the white vent and undertail. The bill was large and pale below, the eyes were jet black and contrasted sharply with its yellow face, the back was olive, the wings were dark gray, and the tail short and dark-tipped. The bird would disappear often for stretches lasting up to 20 minutes or more and was observed foraging in several cherry trees up to 75 feet apart."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 13:06 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279613063 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird (Nick Belardes 10/08/25) observed feeding in cherry tree grove here: (35°16'02.5"N 120°39'42.4"W). This robust warbler was noticeably larger than the Orange-crowned Warbler and Tennessee Warbler it was associating with almost non-stop and was bright yellow from head to nape and neck on top and from throat to breast and belly below fading to white on the vent and undertail. The bill was large and pale below, the eyes were jet black and contrasted sharply with its yellow face, the back was olive, the wings were dark gray, and the tail short and dark-tipped. The bird would disappear often for stretches lasting up to 20 minutes or more and was observed foraging in several cherry trees up to 75 feet apart."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 12:04 by The Spotting Twohees
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279580794 - Comments: "Warbler with all yellow head and breast. Dark eye. White undertail. Blue gray wings. No wing bars. Seen with Norm P. (Who got some photos) and Pair of Wingnuts (both :-) )"
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 08:09 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279564348 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "In the same cherry tree area just southeast of mid-park bridge. See older posts for coordinates. White undertail coverts, smokey grey wings, luminous golden plumage, more dark olive-yellow on head. Heard chipping and seen. Also, a new clue as to the bird's powers of teleportation and time travel. This bird flew south over a house into a neighborhood. I almost followed it but was immediately too lazy for that. Photos--yay!"
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 13:06 by Norman Pillsbury
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279621683 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Based on comparative photos, this is likely a continuing bird (Nick Belardes 10/07/25). This short-tailed warbler was green above with dark lores and eye-line, yellowish supercilium, yellow throat, yellow/greenish breast with faint gray streaking, faint green belly and flanks, and whitish vent and undertail."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 13:06 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279613063 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Based on comparative photos, this is likely a continuing bird (Nick Belardes 10/07/25). This short-tailed warbler was green above with dark lores and eye-line, yellowish supercilium, yellow throat, yellow/greenish breast with faint gray streaking, faint green belly and flanks, and whitish vent and undertail."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 15, 2025 08:09 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279564348 - Media: 13 Photos
- Comments: "Very tiny. Smol. Sleek. Slow. This appears to be the third different Tennessee at Meadow this fall. This one had me thinking hatch-year blue-winged because of its overall yellowy color, green back, very thick dark eyeline, and bright white undertail coverts. While the wing primaries were grey, the secondaries weren't. And the tail, though short, protruded grey (too much for a blue-winged) and didn't seem to have white edges to the retrices that a blue-winged would have. And there was no tail flicking and tail opening that I saw. Very slow foraging for a Tennessee though. Just hanging out and having a good time chowing down. Photos"
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 13, 2025 12:00 by Petra Clayton
- San Geronimo Ck--Estero Bluffs SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9338218&<ll...>,-120.9338218 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279251793 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile since 9/19/25 (Tom Edell)
Dark, stout bill with yellow feathers at the base of the lower mandible; small white triangular spots on the covert feathers; long legs."
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 14, 2025 09:48 by Kevin Zimmer
- Atascadero Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6667256&<ll...>,-120.6667256 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279419919 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Popped into view but buried in the reeds in the small cove east of the parking lot in the SE corner of the lake. White throat, rusty crown bisected by narrow gray median stripe, very gray sides of neck and nape, clay-buff sides/flanks; very rusty wings (especially the greater coverts and folded secondaries; mantle pale brown with bold black streaks. It appeared in response to ‘pishing’, as did a Lincoln’s Sparrow and a couple of Song Sparrows in the same patch of reeds. I was intent on photographing a very visible Lincoln’s Sparrow, when my attention was immediately drawn to the Swamp Sparrow by a couple of phoebe-like chip notes. Sadly, I could not find a window in the dense reeds through which to photograph the Swamp Sparrow. It sat for a couple of minutes preening, and then dropped back into the reeds, not to be seen again. All of my photos are obscured by reeds, although, in composite, most of the critical field marks can be seen."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Oct 14, 2025 09:49 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279397386 - Comments: "Continuing here: (35.2673544, -120.6616653). Briefly seen twice by Golden Gloves Banales. Another birder not on eBird mentioned seeing it this morning in same area as well. White undertail coverts and some white washed onto belly. Luminous golden otherwise except for olive-ish golden wash on cheeks/head and blue-grey wings. Short tail. Borbulous. No pics. No paparazzi please, the bird said. Kidding—looks were super brief. Booo. This is my third sighting of this bird since discovering it in a diff area of park. Wish I knew where this bird flies/teleports in from."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Oct 13, 2025 17:05 by Roger Hammer
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279375810 - Comments: "cont. bird feeding in the cherry trees against the south park border fence between the ped bridge and exercise station 11. i've seen these in MI but it was my first here. little sunball with gray wings. and after i lost it i was searching further north towards casa diablo then circled back to find Brian gazing up at the exact spot where I had the bird and where he and others have had it earlier in the day. bird has a favorite spot now. it was now too late to discern which warblers were who, but several were back in that spot. note: i don't know if these are Catalina Cherries (as called by a resident) or Broadleaf, as called by other birders. Anyway, these cherries are ripe and attracting a lot of birds."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 09:55 by Ann Stockert
- 1137 Pasadena Dr, Los Osos US-CA (35.3313,-120.8432), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.843218&<ll...>,-120.843218 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279211173 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing….female, sitting on floating planks near oyster beds. Distant photos . Also observed Jay C. in a kayak who I’m sure got amazing photos!"
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 13, 2025 11:51 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279248465 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female. Spotted this bird in oaks and bottlebrush in east park, and last saw it south of the paved path about here: 35.26751° N, 120.65964° W where it was near and then on a bird box. Lots of trunk crawling and hopping between trunks and branches. Well documented already though will post pics."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Oct 13, 2025 08:08 by Ann McDowell
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279185346 - Comments: "Continuing species. Seen in pine tree darting about upper canopy. Prior sightings have been lower down on trees. Distinctive black and white markings down head and back."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Oct 13, 2025 15:13 by Russ Namitz
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279239163 - Comments: "Continuing rarity found by Nick “Golden Glove“ Balardes. Bright golden warbler with plain face and blue wings. White belly and UTC. 1 star photo to be uploaded shortly. Foraging in ripe fruit of hollyleaf cherry tree here. (35.2673544, -120.6616653)"
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Oct 13, 2025 13:45 by The Spotting Twohees
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279227780 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing from 10-8 found by Nick Belardes. I was with Nick and he saw it foraging high in an Alder? tree just east of the cherry tree it's been feeding in. Stayed high and never came down. Seen foraging twice in different spots a few minutes apart. Warbler with yellow head and breast. White undertail. Blue/gray wings without wingbars. POOR photos. Nick may have gotten better photos."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Oct 13, 2025 11:51 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279248465 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Random luck tale: Continuing bird originally found by Golden Gloves B-man (according to Russ N. haha). I’d been birding the eastern park area just looking for whatever when I started heading back home. I was walking west on the southern paved path and soon came across B.O’K. staring forlornly into a line of cherry trees. I was like, “Yo homie, is this where the Prothonotary was last seen?” (See tennessee warbler for location). He said, “Yeah, it was last seen foraging here—it was early afternoon—so I think it will show up.” I was like, “Thought so, saw a few birders poking around down here.” He then told me he needed the Pro for a yearbird. I then heard an interesting chip which may have been our suspect, and immediately saw some warblers and finches flitting around deep in the canopy maybe twelve or so feet up. It was exactly 2 p.m.* Then the Prothonotary materialized high in one of the trees. I saw its white undertail coverts and luminous golden plumage—belly, chest and head. I also noticed its blue-grey wings. It popped out twice, enough for me to take a crappy photo of its underside and short tail—then it teleported away. Didn’t see its head for that bit of eyeline I saw when I first discovered the bird five or so days ago, which also means this time didn’t notice its olive-yellow face coloring. Very borbly plumperrific. *B. O’K the prophet said he told folks the bird would arrive at 2!"
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 10:55 by Ann Stockert
- Islay Creek Campground--Montana de Oro SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8838502&<ll...>,-120.8838502 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279186891 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Seen at campsite 1and then flew across road towards camp host site. Lime-green above, white undertail coverts, and dark line through eye. Poor photo"
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Oct 13, 2025 15:13 by Russ Namitz
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279239163 - Comments: "Yellowish-green warbler very similar to OCWA in the front half except chest was blobby streaking, not fine. White UTC were very long, accentuating the short tail. Photo. (35.2673544, -120.6616653)"
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Oct 13, 2025 11:51 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279248465 - Comments: "Continuing here: (35.2673544, -120.6616653) dark eyeline, white undertail, lime green back, crown, secondaries. Pale supercilium. Yellowy throat and chest. Short tail. Foraging near an orange-crowned warblie and in vicinity of prothonotary. No photo. Was quickly chased off by yet another warbler. Originally found my me a week or two ago."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Oct 12, 2025 11:32 by Kevin Zimmer
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279236697 - Comments: "Continuing. In the same fruiting cherry tree where the Prothonotary Warbler was feeding. Fairly bright olive-green above and pale below, washed pale yellow across chest, with white lower belly, crissum and under tail coverts; proportionately short-tailed, with longish, pointed bill; dark line through eye with narrow pale supercilium."
Virginia's Warbler (Leiothlypis virginiae) (1)
- Reported Oct 12, 2025 08:37 by Kevin Zimmer
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279233958 - Comments: "Popped up in shrubby growth just beyond the fence at the west end of the park, as part of a mob scene. Disappeared within seconds (before I could get a photo), and was not seen again, despite considerable time spent trying to relocate it. Warbler with longish tail, which it wagged up and down nervously; bold, complete white eye ring; drab overall, with olive-tinged gray upperparts (wings grayer) except for contrasting greenish-yellow rump; dingy grayish-buff below, except for splash of pale yellow restricted to the center of the chest, and brighter, more contrasting yellow crissum."
Virginia's Warbler (Leiothlypis virginiae) (1)
- Reported Oct 13, 2025 12:35 by Tom Edell
- Home, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8953657&<ll...>,-120.8953657 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279206671 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "This was probably the same individual that visited my yard on 9 Oct. I had much better looks this time and my camera was nearby. I first noticed the overall gray color and the complete white eyering. As it bathed I could see the paler underparts and a yellow patch on the center of the breast plus the bright yellow undertail coverts. One photo of it bathing shows the bright yellow uppertail coverts. There was no hint of yellow on the edges of the primaries or secondaries. Photos"
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 12, 2025 08:37 by Kevin Zimmer
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S279233958 - Media: 12 Photos
- Comments: "Orange-yellow throat, upper breast, and long, broad supercilium, framing a dark, triangular-shaped auricular patch (pointed at bottom and rear). Auricular patch bordered at rear by orange yellow connecting the supercilium to the neck sides. Conspicuous white arcs above and below the eyes. Belly and Lowe abdomen white, with scattered dusky streaks on sides/flanks. Upperparts streaked olive-gray and black, with conspicuous pale ‘braces’ framing either side of the mantle. Wings dusky with two bold white wingbars. Underside of folded tail appeared mostly white. Bill mostly dusky, but with pale base to lower mandible; tarsi and toes dark reddish-pink. Not sure if this is the same bird that I first found at this spot on Oct 3 or not. It did not strike me as being as bright orange as the Oct 3 bird."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 11, 2025 12:35 by Petra Clayton
- San Simeon: San Simeon Road / Arroyo del Puerto, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1890228&<ll...>,-121.1890228 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278780485 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Juvenile. - First-ever eBird report of this species this far north up the coast. The furthest up on the north coast was at San Geronimo Creek (most recent eBird report there 10/5/2025.)
Observed resting at the creek side east of the Arroyo del Puerto bridge.
All dark, stout bill with yellow feathers at the base of the lower mandible; small white triangular spots on the covert feathers, long legs."
Savannah Sparrow (Large-billed) (Passerculus sandwichensis rostratus/atratus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 11, 2025 12:49 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278788863 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "We found the bird foraging in Coyote Bush near bend in the boardwalk where this species has been known to occur (35°20'38.9"N 120°50'20.2"W). This bird was stocky and larger than other nearby Savannah Sparrows and was mostly brown above with brown crown, lores and eye-line, only a hint of a pale supercilium which lacked any yellow we could see and had a large, stout bill with convex culmen, brown auriculars, weak malar stripe and white moustachial stripe. This bird had a white throat and was white below with blurry brown streaking on breast, sides and flanks. Interestingly, the bird stayed in a small (maybe 1-2 ft square) area and allowed a group to approach us and also observe."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Dodo (Raphus cucullatus) (1)
- Reported Oct 10, 2025 16:08 by Noah Arthur
- Oceano County Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6255312&<ll...>,-120.6255312 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278433453 - Comments: "I’m just putting this here temporarily to trip a filter and get attention… I saw what may have been an Old World warbler this evening in the low willows by the lagoon along Guiton Trail just north of Pier Ave, by the campground. Here’s the coordinates: (35.1071319, -120.6264067). My views were bad and brief, but left me very intrigued. It was a small but not tiny passerine, patterned like a Bewick’s Wren including a similarly prominent supercilium; but shaped like a warbler, with a shorter tail and seemingly longer body than a Bewick’s. I thought the shape most resembled COYE or OCWA. I hope someone can follow up on this tomorrow! I bitterly regret not being faster with the binocs and camera."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Oct 11, 2025 09:40 by Isaiah Woodard
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278653279 - Comments: "Notably smaller than nearby DCCO. Darker lores. Gape different from DCCO, but not textbook NECO. Likely a young bird. Not the clearest ID of NECO, but corroborated by other previous observers."
Clay-colored Sparrow (Spizella pallida) (1)
- Reported Oct 10, 2025 08:23 by Jason Ransom
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278427936 - Comments: "Near where the boardwalk meets the parking area at the far end of the lot. Cricket-like chip contact calls. Plain buff belly and chest, gray sides of nape, brown ear patch with darker lining. Somewhere wide supercilium buff to cream. Malar stripe was a bit diffuse dark brown. Brown streaky cap with light center stripe."
Savannah Sparrow (Large-billed) (Passerculus sandwichensis rostratus/atratus) (1)
- Reported Oct 11, 2025 12:37 by James Hinshaw-Zingo
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278724257 - Comments: "Savannah sparrow with little to no yellow. Larger bill, plumage quite grayish. Verified by Pair of Wing-Nuts. Hiding in low parts of shrubbery in the open spot at the usual corner"
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (1)
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 12:20 by Petra Clayton
- Garden St, Los Osos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8502207&<ll...>,-120.8502207 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278086495 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Compared to a Hooded Oriole it appeared to be slightly smaller in size with a shorter tail and a shorter, less decurved bill.
It had a greenish-yellow head and underparts; a faint dark line through the eye; olive-green back and tail; brownish-gray wings with two white wingbars; fairly straight, sharply pointed bill.
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Oct 11, 2025 10:45 by Isaiah Woodard
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278706784 - Comments: "Continuing. Seen well in oak grove near where the path forks on the east side. Female; black and white streaked all over, climbing up and down branches and trunks of oak trees."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Oct 11, 2025 13:10 by Linda Terrill
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278739897 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing. First found 10/8/2025 by Nick Belardes. It was foraging in a holyleaf cherry along the park’s south side residential fence line between the pedestrian bridge and the Vita Course station 11 sign. The continuing Tennessee was with the Protho."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1)
- Reported Oct 11, 2025 13:10 by Scott Terrill
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278739896 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing. First found 10/8/2025 by Nick Belardes. It was foraging in a holyleaf cherry along the park’s south side residential fence line between the pedestrian bridge and the Vita Course station 11 sign. The continuing Tennessee was with the Protho."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Oct 11, 2025 13:10 by Linda Terrill
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278739897 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing. First found 10/8/2025 by Nick Belardes. It was foraging in a holyleaf cherry along the park’s south side residential fence line between the pedestrian bridge and the Vita Course station 11. The continuing Tennessee was with the Protho."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Oct 11, 2025 13:10 by Scott Terrill
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278739896 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing. First found 10/8/2025 by Nick Belardes. It was foraging in a holyleaf cherry along the park’s south side residential fence line between the pedestrian bridge and the Vita Course station 11. The continuing Tennessee was with the Protho."
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (1)
- Reported Oct 10, 2025 11:12 by Jason Ransom
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278426424 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Foraging with the black-throated gray, yellow-rumped, and chickadees. Only poor cell phone photos, but enough show the angular cheek patch and heavy white in coverts."
Palm Warbler (Setophaga palmarum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 10, 2025 09:55 by Petra Clayton
- Cloisters Community Park (not for beach and ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8609828&<ll...>,-120.8609828 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278407643 - Media: 13 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing non-breading adult/immature since 10/7/25 (Steve Tillmann).
Olive-brown crown and back; pale throat and breast; yellowish belly; brownish streaks on breast and on flanks; white eye arcs; dark eye line starting in front of the eyes; whitish supercilium; bright yellow undertail, tail bobbing while perched on the fence.
Observed on the fence along the paved pathway, coming from Coral Ave. It then flew to the right across the dry grass field to the back yard fences behind the residences.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54845223937/in/dateposted-public/" title="Palm Warbler (Setophaga palmarum), Morro Bay, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54845223937_d8e548f3dd_z.jpg" alt="Palm Warbler (Setophaga palmarum), Morro Bay, CA" /></a>"
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Baird's Sandpiper (Calidris bairdii) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 09:16 by Kevin Zimmer
- Morro Bay Sandspit, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8670158&<ll...>,-120.8670158 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278261746 - Comments: "Late juvenile. Larger and longer winged than nearby Least and Western sandpipers, with more horizontal posture and wingtips that extended past the tip of the tail when standing. Buffy-brown above, with distinctly scaly pattern to upperparts resulting from dark-centered feathers with sharply defined, pale-fringed edges."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 09, 2025 09:55 by Petra Clayton
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278229205 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female/hatch year bird since 9/21/25 (Steve Tillmann).
Boldly streaked black and white pattern; black upperparts with white streaks; grayish-white face; white eyering; black crown with broad white center stripe; broad white supercilium; creamy-white throat and underparts; a buff wash on the lower flanks and vent; black streaks on the flanks; black spots on the undertail; two white wingbars; sharply pointed bill.
Quickly moving nuthatch-like up and down trunks and branches, in oaks in the northeast portion of the park, searching for insects in bark crevices and from foliage.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video clip:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54844549384/in/dateposted-public/" title="Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia), San Luis Obispo, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54844549384_760be272ca_z.jpg" alt="Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia), San Luis Obispo, CA" /></a>"
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 09, 2025 09:55 by Petra Clayton
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278229205 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing since 10/8/2025 (Nick Belardes), which was the "first-ever" eBird report of that species at this eBird hospot.
Bright yellow head, breast, and flanks; white vent and undertail covert; relatively short tail; yellow-green back; grayish wings; no wingbars; pointed bill with brownish upper mandible and pinkish lower mandible; dark eye; indistinct eyering. --- In oaks in northeast side of the paved loop of the park, shortly after south and east paths separate, coming from the Woodbridge St entrance."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 09, 2025 09:55 by Petra Clayton
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278229205 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing individual since 10/8/25 (Nick Belardes)
Olive back and head; dark line through the eye, front to back; pale supercilium; yellow throat and breast; pale belly; white undertail coverts; short tail; pointed bill. - Observed in a sycamore on the southeast end of the park."
Palm Warbler (Western) (Setophaga palmarum palmarum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 09, 2025 08:38 by Kevin Zimmer
- Cloisters Community Park (not for beach and ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8609828&<ll...>,-120.8609828 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278267577 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird first found by Steve T on 10/7. Seen along fence line near the triangle trail intersection in the northern part of the park, where it foraged mostly on the ground, while pumping its tail up and down. Dull plumaged warbler, with narrow, pointed black bill and black tarsi and toes; brown upper parts faintly streaked dusky on back, and darker on crown; dirty buff below, with contrastingly paler throat, framed by narrow dusky whisker streaks; long and conspicuous creamy buff supercilium; wings with two faint beige wingbars; vent conspicuously yellow mustard color; rump duller greenish-yellow. Photos to follow."
Palm Warbler (Western) (Setophaga palmarum palmarum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 09, 2025 08:15 by Reef Comer
- Cloisters Community Park (not for beach and ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8609828&<ll...>,-120.8609828 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278257972 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing drab tail bobber! Seemed to have a nectar craving, as it flew to and foraged in a bottlebrush-like tree, a post-flowering agave, and a NZ flax on Coral Ave."
***********
You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Earlier the same afternoon that the vireo appeared I also photographed a
Northern Waterthrush at my water feature
(https://ebird.org/checklist/S277877147). Yesterday afternoon, a Virginia's
Warbler made a brief visit to the water feature. All three birds showed up
between 4:30-5:15 PM.
My yard is small and there is a tall Monterey cypress in one neighbor's year
and a tall hedge in another neighbor's yard. I have a suet feeder and a
syrup feeder in my yard along with a water feature. Not the most attractive
yard for birds, but it helps to be right on the coast in fall and have a
running water feature.
Earlier the same afternoon that the vireo appeared I also photographed a
Northern Waterthrush at my water feature
(https://ebird.org/checklist/S277877147). Yesterday afternoon, a Virginia's
Warbler made a brief visit to the water feature. All three birds showed up
between 4:30-5:15 PM.
My yard is small and there is a tall Monterey cypress in one neighbor's year
and a tall hedge in another neighbor's yard. I have a suet feeder and a
syrup feeder in my yard along with a water feature. Not the most attractive
yard for birds, but it helps to be right on the coast in fall and have a
running water feature.
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 14:02 by David Keeling
- Morro Bay Estuary (use more specific location(s) when possible), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8501072&<ll...>,-120.8501072 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278178749 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing brown bird in bay with thin white wing bar sometimes visible, and whitish around the eye and unique bill. 4 images attached."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 09:50 by Jay Carroll
- Morro Bay Estuary (use more specific location(s) when possible), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8501072&<ll...>,-120.8501072 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278050076 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female perched on a small floating plank at the eastern oyster farm operation; mostly brown duck with gently sloping forehead and dark bill; the breast had a mottled appearance and there were lighter areas on the face and around the eyes; compared to mid-August when the bird was in heavy molt and flight feather shafts were quite evident, it now appeared to be in much better condition."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 08:25 by Maggie Smith
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278076489 - Comments: "Distant bird on a floating piece of wood. We found it after receiving an alert that it was seen on a wood float from Pasadena Ave. From out distance it just looked like a dark duck with a sloping forehead/bill. Shorter than adjacent Double-crested cormorant though body size may have been comparable."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 08:25 by Tom Edell
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278063823 - Comments: "Distant bird on a floating piece of wood. We found it after receiving an alert that it was seen on a wood float from Pasadena Ave. From out distance it just looked like a dark duck with a sloping forehead/bill. Shorter than adjacent Double-crested cormorant though body size may have been comparable."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 14:00 by Terri Osborn
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278085796 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing female King Eider seen swimming around the oyster farm in Morro Bay. Brown duck-like body and head with forehead sloping down to a dark bill. Poor long distance photo."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 11:32 by Petra Clayton
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278083929 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Most likely the female-like plumaged bird first reported on 8/17/2025 (Brian O'Kelly & Alexander Yan).
Overall brown, about the size of a Mallard. Very noticeable was a white stripe on the side. The bill-shape was unlike a Mallard's in that it seemed shorter and the forehead was sloping down to the bill in a more straight line.
Preening while perched on the floating dock by the oyster farm with Double-crested Cormorants and a Western Gull. Viewed at a distance from the empty lot on Pasadena Drive.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54842340391/in/dateposted-public/" title="King Eider (Somateria spectabilis), Morro Bay, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54842340391_947274c4ea_z.jpg" alt="King Eider (Somateria spectabilis), Morro Bay, CA" /></a>"
Common Nighthawk (Chordeiles minor) (1)
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 18:52 by Gregory Smith
- Freeman Lane, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8183392&<ll...>,-120.8183392 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278079626 - Comments: "Second time I have had this species while taking a spa. Last time it was quite dark, this time at 6:40 this evening. Heard the bird give its “peent” call and looked up to see it just before it disappeared behind a tree. Then it gave a second “peent” call. Not much of a view, but definitely a nighthawk with white bars out towards the bend in the wind. Would beat its wings and got one view of a short glide with the wings held over its head."
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 08:25 by Tom Edell
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278063823 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Juvenile on Dock 7. Darker gray/brown than juvenile Black-crowned with small markings on the wings. Mostly dark bill with a pale area at the base of the lower mandible. (photos)"
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 08:25 by Maggie Smith
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278076489 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Juvenile on Dock 7. Darker gray/brown than juvenile Black-crowned with small markings on the wings. Mostly dark bill with a pale area at the base of the lower mandible. (photos)"
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 09:20 by Petra Clayton
- Tidelands Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8514118&<ll...>,-120.8514118 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278083828 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile. One individual perched on the Monterey Cypress past the last boat ramp, just like yesterday (10/7/25)
Also, just like yesterday, another single juvenile Yellow-crowned Night Heron was present today on the last boat dock at the Morro Bay State Park Marina .
In the past month we have observed one juvenile at this location in the morning of 9/6/25 and again on 9/7/25, 9/8/25, 9/12/25 and 9/18/25. We observed three juveniles on 9/25/25 and 9/26/25 and we observed two juveniles on 10/2/25.
One juvenile was first present here on 9/4/25 and could have been the same individual reported on 9/3/25 at the Morro Bay SP Marina.
Today's juvenile had a dark, stout bill with yellow feathers at the base of the lower mandible; small white triangular spots on the covert feathers.
Swamp Sparrow (Melospiza georgiana) (1)
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 15:25 by Mackinley Mariott
- West Hazard Canyon--Montana de Oro SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8812916&<ll...>,-120.8812916 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278062224 - Comments: "Found around (35.2885608, -120.8814884), Hopping around inside some brush, across from cattails on one of the hiking trails to the beach, it moved quickly so I could not get a photo, sides and wings were noticeably red-brown and the lines on the chest were blurry"
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 10:55 by Barbara Webster
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278078075 - Comments: "Largish bright yellow warbler foraging on oak tree close to bottlebrush. Yellow on head and breast. Large bill. Grayish- blue wings. White undertail coverts. First found by Nick in bottlebrush. I saw it later in the oak with several other birders."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 10:00 by Isaiah Woodard
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278053235 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Seen with several other birders. First spotted by Nick. All yellow head and breast. Foraging in oaks near cluster of bottlebrush trees. Photo below."
Prothonotary Warbler (Protonotaria citrea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 09:39 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278062951 - Media: 11 Photos
- Comments: "Hatch-year/female. As much as I willed this bird to be a blue-winged warbler after my first sighting in a bottlebrush tree (see coordinates under tennessee warbler), partly because this wasn’t a swampy habitat and seemed more likely a blue-winged stopover, when the bird was spotted again by another birder, it was concluded this bird wasn’t small or sleek enough to be a blue-winged, and was just a big ‘ol plump prothonotary. When I first saw the bird, I did note its plumpness and overall borbliness—very ‘roun—as some friends might say. I also noticed the bright yellow of the bird, a luminescence of plumage that is more golden than the yellowest of yellow warblers. Still, in the shadows of bottlebrush, I was confused and thought it not quite radiant enough for a prothonotary—that is until my second sighting—which still took some convincing via examination and discussion. I did note its white undertail coverts and short tail on my first sighting, and also that it had a faint eyeline and that its wings were blue-grey. Its upper mandible, I saw on my second sighting, was dark, while the lower was pink. The face had olive tones, as did its back. Oh and the white of its undertail coverts washed onto its belly. First record for Meadow Park. Photos."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 17:23 by Matt Brady
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278078610 - Comments: "Apparently a continuing bird. Typical fall TEWA: bright lime green above, more yellow below, short tail with white under tail coverts, yellow supercilium, thin, sharp bill. Photos."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 10:00 by Isaiah Woodard
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278053235 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Seen on two instances on the east side of the park, once with several other birders. Pale yellow-green breast, pale belly, green above. Dark line through the eye."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 09:39 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278062951 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing. Appeared to be the same individual as yesterday, but on opp end of park. This was east of the mid-park bridge high in a bottlebrush tree approximately here: 35.26776° N, 120.66036° W . The bird had a prominent eyeline and pale supercilium, had white undertail coverts and belly. Its throat was yellow and its crown, nape, back and parts of its wings and upper tail were cast in lime tones. The primaries were grey and the retrices also had grey tones. I might have one poor photo."
Palm Warbler (Setophaga palmarum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 10:10 by Petra Clayton
- Cloisters Community Park (not for beach and ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8609828&<ll...>,-120.8609828 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278075845 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing non-breading adult/immature since 10/7/25 (Steve Tillmann).
Olive-brown crown and back; pale throat and breast; yellowish belly; brownish streaks on breast and on flanks; white eye arcs; dark eye line starting in front of the eyes; whitish supercilium; bright yellow undertail.
Observed in the dry grass field behind the memorial bench (Heidi Baird) and the free book library. It first foraged close to the fence and hopped on the fence there before flying across the paved trail, briefly sitting on that fence and then flying into the willows by the lake."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 08:58 by Tom Edell
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277877346 - Comments: "Brian O. spotted a distant dark colored duck on oyster floats across the bay that looked like a good candidate. From the boardwalk, It looked like an all dark duck with a forehead that sloped down to the tip of the bill. We drove to Pasadena Ave to confirm the species. See https://ebird.org/checklist/S277877276 for more details and photos."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 08:45 by Kaaren Perry
- Pasadena Drive, Los Osos, Ca, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8426839&<ll...>,-120.8426839 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278028277 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Dark brown duck seen roosting on offshore oyster raft. This species had been previously reported and considering the rarity is probably the same individual. It moved off and on the raft, eventually swimming out into the bay. A single white wing bar, white wing linings, rounded head with all dark sloped bill were observed. Distant photos suitable only for species seasonal status purposes."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 15:40 by Isaiah Woodard
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277894432 - Comments: "Continuing. Good looks, exceedingly poor photos. Large all brown duck with low profile and long, sloping head. Spending time on the oyster beds on the left side, beyond the exposed sandbar."
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 11:05 by Carol Comeau
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277884389 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing. Seen by multiple observers. Swimming off the buoys visible from the vacant lot off Pasadena that is just north of the official Pasadena Park Bench hotspot. Same bird that was noted starting August 17, 2025 by multiple observers. 2nd county record. Viewed with scope. Lousy photo!"
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 10:53 by Tom Edell
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277877276 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "While scoping birds from the boardwalk, Brian spotted a duck across the bay he thought was a candidate for the missing King Eider present this past August. Though distant I agreed and a group of us drove over to Pasadena Ave for closer looks. The bird was still resting on oyster company floats when we arrived, but swam off around the floats, and perched back on them a few times while we watched. With binoculars and under an overcast sky, it looked like a brown duck with a sloping forehead. With scoped we were able to see the bird better, but it was still too distance to see fine details. It appeared to be brown overall and perhaps a bit light on the head and breast. Aside from the sloping forehead that ended in an apparent dark bill, the most noticeable feature was a pale spot over the eye and a pale line curving back from the eye and down onto the side of the neck. When it raised up in the water I could see that at least the breast looked mottled. In some views, it appeared to have a single white wingbar. This bird looks to have replaced its primaries and retricies, which were just shafts in August, and I suspect it has been somewhere on the estuary while molting. Photos"
Rufous Hummingbird (Selasphorus rufus) (1)
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 11:49 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277901805 - Comments: "Late migrant hatch-year male. I was in the understory of the oak grove between the north and south paved paths in the eastern area of the park when I spotted an orange hummingbird hovering in the canopy. It was above and to the front of me. It landed twice and I still couldn’t manage a pic. It had an orange back, cheeks, crown, nape, and front—and white chest. Its throat was partially white and had several dark messy gorget patches. No picorama."
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1)
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 12:24 by Andrew Fleming
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278037671 - Comments: "Juvenile. Standing on the boat docks closest to the trailhead. Lankier neck and thicker bill than black crowned. Could be one of the same juveniles seen previously around Morro bay."
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1)
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 10:25 by Petra Clayton
- Morro Bay SP--Marina/Boardwalk Trail, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8418006&<ll...>,-120.8418006 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277930212 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "One juvenile, most likely one of the up to three juveniles reported in Morro Bay during the last five weeks: The first one on 9/3/25 at the Morro Bay SP Marina by the Bayside Café.
Then all of our observations were at Tidelands Park, where we observed one on 9/4/25 and two on 9/6/25, 9/7/25, 9/8/25, 9/12/25 and 9/18/25. We observed three juveniles at Tidelands Park on 9/25/25 and 9/26/25 and again two on 10/2/25 and one there today (10/7/25) at 10:00 a.m.
Today's juvenile at the Morro Bay SP Marina had a dark, stout bill with yellow feathers at the base of the lower mandible; small white triangular spots on the covert feathers.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video, showing the juvenile with a crab:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54840309066/in/dateposted-public/" title="Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) juvenile, Morro Bay, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54840309066_69511b8cca_z.jpg" alt="Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) juvenile, Morro Bay, CA" /></a>"
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1)
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 10:00 by Petra Clayton
- Tidelands Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8514118&<ll...>,-120.8514118 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277907390 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile. Today just one. It was perched on the Monterey Cypress past the last boat ramp.
However, another a single juvenile Yellow-crowned Night Heron was present today at the Morro Bay State Park Marina at 11:07 a.m.
In the past month we have observed one juvenile at this location in the morning of 9/6/25 and again on 9/7/25, 9/8/25, 9/12/25 and 9/18/25. We observed three juveniles on 9/25/25 and 9/26/25 and we observed two juveniles on 10/2/25.
One juvenile was first present here on 9/4/25 and could have been the same individual reported on 9/3/25 at the Morro Bay SP Marina.
Today's juvenile had a dark, stout bill with yellow feathers at the base of the lower mandible; small white triangular spots on the covert feathers.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video, which includes regurgitation of a pellet:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54840170551/in/dateposted-public/" title="Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) juvenile, Morro Bay, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54840170551_a2b196cae3_z.jpg" alt="Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) juvenile, Morro Bay, CA" /></a>
**Birds of the World**
Bolus of indigestible material such as crab shells and beetle elytra ejected as pellets, approximately 2.5-5 cm in length; may be found in large numbers around favorite sunning and roosting areas. Young drop pellets over side of nest and will regurgitate undigested food or pellets when approached by humans. Adults also eject pellets when disturbed."
Bell's Vireo (Eastern) (Vireo bellii bellii/medius) (1)
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 17:08 by Tom Edell
- Home, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8953657&<ll...>,-120.8953657 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277903859 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "This bird was first seen moving in a wax myrtle. It dropped down to the backyard water feature but did not bathe or drink before flying back into the myrtle. I was initially confused by the yellow flanks and undertail and otherwise white underparts. Once I got a good look at the thick vireo type bill and pale spectacles I knew it was a vireo but not the more expected Warbling Vireo. The green back yellow sides, pale wingbars (photos show a much more prominent lower wingbar than upper), and gray head best fit Eastern Bell's Vireo. Camera settings were set for this morning's overcast conditions and washed out some of the yellow color on the bird's plumage."
Clay-colored Sparrow (Spizella pallida) (1)
- Reported Oct 06, 2025 12:08 by Petra Clayton
- Hi Mountain Road, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.4102386&<ll...>,-120.4102386 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277728339 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Brown finely streaked crown with pale median stripe; broad pale supercilium and lores; complete eye-ring; flared eye-line starting behind the eye; small pink bill; pale malar stripe bordered by thin dark stripes; pale underparts; partial gray collar; dark streaks on brown nape and upper back; two white wingbars; notched tail; pink legs and feet.
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 11:49 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277901805 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female seen in both ends of park. Enough time passed that I assume the same bird, that I first saw west of the mid-park bridge, had flown to the oak grove between the two paths near where the paths converge. The bird eagerly foraged on trunks and limbs, occasionally teleporting to other branches, and also letting out soft high-pitched chip calls now and then. Photos."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 11:49 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277901805 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "This is a different tennessee warbler than the specimen I discovered a week or so ago. Overall, more yellowy-geen in parts than the first, and much more white beneath. The dark eyeline was more pronounced, as was its pale supercilium. The back was lime green, as was its crown, nape, shoulders, secondaries and rump. The primaries were grey but pale-edged. This bird was also smaller than the first and had an extremely short tail with partially lime retrices, and white undertail coverts. The throat was more yellowy as was the patch nearly surrounding its auriculars towards the nape. Spotted in multiple trees west of mid-park bridge. Pics"
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Oct 08, 2025 10:32 by Jamie Woolf
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S278033383 - Comments: "Seen twice on the peninsula. Green back, white eye ring, two distinct wing bars, and very faint chestnut color on side. Associated loosely with a few yellow-rumpled warblers."
Blackpoll Warbler (Setophaga striata) (1)
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 11:49 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277901805 - Media: 11 Photos
- Comments: "Hatch-year homie. I’m assuming this is a different migrant than the one another birder found a few weeks ago? But maybe not? This bird landed at the base of a tree, which surprised the heck out of me. Then it darted into the canopy, but rather low amid branches and leaves where it foraged—possibky for insects. It was rather cooperative while I snapped pics, hanging out low amid thick green leaves, which made the bird appear greener than it was. I noticed right away when it was on the ground that it had a striped back—dark lines on olive coloring—a yellow throat and chest, and white undertail coverts. I also noted brown stripey smudges on its flanks and chest, pale-edged dark wings, double-white wingbars, and a short tail. Also notable was a dark eyeline and broken yellow-to-white eyering. I forgot to look at the color of its legs and feet, though in photos they appear yellow. Pics"
Palm Warbler (Setophaga palmarum) (1)
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 17:44 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Cloisters Community Park (not for beach and ocean), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8609828&<ll...>,-120.8609828 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277916765 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Observed foraging in tall grass next to fence along paved trail near triangle trail intersection in NW corner of park near free book library and bench. Nonbreeding adult/immature bird was mostly gray/brown above with brownish cap, creamy pale supercilium, dark lores and eye-line, cream white eye-arcs, thin, faint gray nape, light brown malar stripe, cream colored throat, buffy yellow breast and belly with blurry light brown streaking on breast, sides and flanks and bright yellow undertail coverts."
Palm Warbler (Setophaga palmarum) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 13:14 by Tom Edell
- Home, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8953657&<ll...>,-120.8953657 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277877147 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "This bird was seen in the vegetation around a water feature before it landed in the open on the ground. It pumped its tail a couple of times after landing. It was brown above, pale below except for the yellow undertail coverts with streaks on sides and had a pale supercilium, dark line through eye, and a thin, dark bill. It was loosely associating with a small flock of Yellow-rumped Warblers. Photo"
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
King Eider (Somateria spectabilis) (1)
- Reported Oct 07, 2025 10:55 by The Spotting Twohees
- Pasadena Park Beach, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8440733&<ll...>,-120.8440733 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277857916 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Duck first spotted from the boardwalk on the oyster bed buoys. A group of us moved over to Pasedena Dr for a better look. The duck was off the buoys and feeding. Diving duck with bill sloping down from forehead. White on face that wraps down behing eye to neck. Wing feathers seem to be grown in, no longer white shafts."
Lesser Nighthawk (Chordeiles acutipennis) (1)
- Reported Oct 06, 2025 17:05 by Norman Pillsbury
- The Lakes--Private Property, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.67129&<ll...>,-120.67129 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277751882 - Comments: "About 6:40 pm on 10/6/25 a Lesser Nighthawk flew through our backyard, dipping and twisting, with quick turns. It was about 15 ft above the ground and had to fly up to glide over the rooftop. No audio was heard. Best view was the bottom side which was buffy to medium brown from neck to tail, and along the strong bars on its long narrow and sharply pointed wings up to the prominent wing bars near the top. Beyond the wing bars it was black (tips). It came out of the riverbed and was headed in the general direction of the two lakes in our development."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 06, 2025 08:11 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277701666 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female rarity. Well documented. Photos. She was in her usual east park area oaks crawling on trunks and limbs and flitting from tree to tree."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1)
- Reported Oct 06, 2025 11:14 by Ann Stockert
- Arroyo Grande Creek--Fair Oaks Ave Bridge, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.5872571&<ll...>,-120.5872571 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277687038 - Comments: "*Expected. Presumably continuing bird. Massive bill, dull olive overall, green upper and paler lower eye arcs, strongly streaked undertail coverts, sharp metallic call, etc. Continues to evade pics unfortunately"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1)
- Reported Oct 06, 2025 10:02 by Ann Stockert
- Mentone Basin Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6132531&<ll...>,-120.6132531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277681871 - Comments: "*Expected, though past peak now. Large dull olive OCWA with large spiky bill, breast streaking, strongly streaked undertail coverts, greener upper and paler lower eye arcs, husky metallic chip, etc. Tried but not able to get pics."
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (1)
- Reported Oct 06, 2025 12:55 by Pam Cahn
- Santa Rosa Creek Trail--Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1005139&<ll...>,-121.1005139 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277733895 - Comments: "Bright yellow throat and breast, white belly and undertail, two white wing bars, pale stripes down back. Blurry streaking on sides. Head differed from Townsend’s with thinner eyeline, yellow supercillium and green-gray cap. Same location as reported yesterday, about 100 yards from trailhead gate. No chance for phonescoping - constant motion foraging. Photos by Pair of Wingnuts yesterday -https://ebird.org/checklist/S277560578 - matched what we saw!"
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (1)
- Reported Oct 06, 2025 12:55 by Barbara Webster
- Santa Rosa Creek Trail--Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1005139&<ll...>,-121.1005139 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277733897 - Comments: "Bright yellow throat and breast, white belly and undertail, two white wing bars, pale stripes down back. Blurry streaking on sides. Head differed from Townsend’s with thinner eyeline, yellow supercillium and green-gray cap. Same location as reported yesterday, about 100 yards from trailhead gate. No chance for phonescoping - constant motion foraging. Photos by Pair of Wingnuts yesterday -https://ebird.org/checklist/S277560578 - matched what we saw!"
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 05, 2025 09:52 by Bob McCay
- Whale Rock Reservoir, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8708239&<ll...>,-120.8708239 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277492002 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Small duck, black back, white beneath. Black head with large white patch on the back of it. Head appeared to be tucked back. Distance was too far for for a decent photo but I’ve uploaded what I have. Scope view was better. Found on the Cottontail Creek arm between the upper turnout and the rocky outcrops on the other side of the lake."
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 02, 2025 12:50 by Petra Clayton
- Tidelands Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8514118&<ll...>,-120.8514118 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276928310 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing two juveniles, both on shore, one right by the public boat ramp, the other a bit east of the boat ramp.
Presumably the ones we observed at this location in the morning of 9/6/25 and again on 9/7/25, 9/8/25, 9/12/25 and 9/18/25. Three were observed on 9/25/25 and 9/26/25.
One juvenile was first present here on 9/4/25 and could have been the same individual reported on 9/3/25 at the Morro Bay SP Marina.
Both have a dark, stout bill with yellow feathers at the base of the lower mandible; small white triangular spots on the covert feathers.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video, showing one of them eating a crab:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54835668693/in/dateposted-public/" title="Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) juvenile, Morro Bay, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54835668693_4c995734ba_z.jpg" alt="Yellow-crowned Night-Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) juvenile, Morro Bay, CA" /></a>"
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1)
- Reported Oct 05, 2025 08:18 by Ann McDowell
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277533007 - Comments: "Recurring species. Regularly occurring in this spot. Has bright yellow breast all the way up to the white neck band. Contrasts with Cassin’s Kingbird nearby that had grey neck and upper breast, with more washed out yellow belly."
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1)
- Reported Oct 04, 2025 08:10 by Robert Dahmen
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277481056 - Comments: "Kingbird with proportional large bill and yellow covering belly to collarbone area. Non vocal. Fly catching off cypress on south end of peninsula over lake. Bad photos available."
Swainson's Thrush (Olive-backed) (Catharus ustulatus [swainsoni Group]) (1)
- Reported Oct 02, 2025 07:00 by Kevin Zimmer
- KJZ yard, Garcia Rd, Atascadero, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.7064838&<ll...>,-120.7064838 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276929968 - Media: 13 Photos
- Comments: "This individual, which visited the fountain of our pond to bathe and drink in the late afternoon, was definitely NOT of the expected breeding/migrant russet-backed, nominate subspecies. It was uniformly 'cold' olive-brown above, and much more boldly, and extensively dark-spotted across the chest than any nominate birds. I waited to post this while seeking outside opinion as to whether the ID of this bird could be further narrowed among the Olive-backed group to either ssp incanus (which breeds in interior Alaska), or the more widespread, eastern ssp swainsoni. Consensus seems to be that field separation of subspecies within the Olive-backed group is tenuous, but that ssp incanus tends to show a slightly rustier tail, which this bird definitely showed in some light. Accordingly, I am labeling this bird as a Swainson's Thrush (Olive-backed), Catharus ustulatus [swainsoni Group], tentatively but not positively assignable to ssp incanus. We've had these Olive-backed Swainson's Thrushes show up in our yard in fall on a couple of other occasions in recent years. I have to wonder how regular these are as fall migrants/vagrants to our area. Given their skulking nature, they could be easily overlooked among the expected nominate birds. Photos to follow."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 10:45 by Terri Osborn
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277586636 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird found by Jacqueline Knowlton on 10/2/2025. Seen, briefly, along the border of the lawn and the willows just west of the pedestrian bridge over the creek. The Bobolink had brown streaking on the back and wings, brown streaking on the crown with a thin yellow midline, yellow supercilium and face with a dark eye line behind the eye, pinkish conical bill with a dark tip, creamy yellow chin, chest and belly with fine dark streaking on the sides and light gray legs. It was seen by many other birders."
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (1)
- Reported Oct 02, 2025 11:30 by Petra Clayton
- Garden St, Los Osos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8502207&<ll...>,-120.8502207 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276925885 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing since 9/29/25 (Jim Royer).
Preening on a wire above private residence with feeders.
Appeared smaller, more dainty than a Hooded Oriole; yellow underparts; short tail; white wingbars; short, pointy bill, less decurved than that of the Hooded Oriole; no vocalization."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 04, 2025 08:50 by Doug Drynan
- Meadow Park, San Luis Obispo US-CA 35.26783, -120.66265, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.66265&<ll...>,-120.66265 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277519945 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "distinctive looking black and white warbler forging on the trunk of an alder tree like a nut hatch. assume it's one of the continuing birds that have regularly been seen here since September. pics."
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 05, 2025 10:00 by Doug Drynan
- Pecho Road Willows, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.85271&<ll...>,-120.85271 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277526457 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "got brief views of a small warbler in a mixed species flock. appears to be an immature male. Bright orange-yellow throat and upper breast, white belly and undertail coverts. grayish head (that also took on a greenish hue in certain light) and back. Two short white wing bars. Short tail. small bi-colored bill with lower mandible being yellow. White eye arcs above and below eye. I couldn't find another Ebird post of the species at this hotspot this fall. But I remember Reef reporting a HY male he observed here September 25. so I assume this may be the same bird?"
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 05, 2025 14:45 by Terri Osborn
- Santa Rosa Creek Trail--Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1005139&<ll...>,-121.1005139 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277564052 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Seen in the canopy of a tall tree at the start of the trail at the west entrance. It was very active and busy flitting along the branches but staying hidden in the foliage for the most part. The warbler had a dark gray back and crown, dark gray wings with white double wing bars, dark triangular shaped cheek patch, yellow supercilium, chin and chest, white belly with small dark streaks on the flanks, and white undertail coverts outlined in black along the outer edge of the tail. I did manage a few poor photos for ID. Thanks to the Pair of Wing-Nuts who found the Blackburnian Warbler earlier today."
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (1)
- Reported Oct 05, 2025 12:12 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Santa Rosa Creek Trail--Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1005139&<ll...>,-121.1005139 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277560578 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Female/immature bird observed loosely associating with a small mixed flock of chickadees and bushtits while foraging in oak canopy about 100 yards east of pipe-gate near west entrance. This bird appeared olive green on the crown with a bright yellow supercilium, yellow lower eye-arcs, dark lores and eye-line, gray auriculars and nape, bright yellow throat and upper breast and was white from belly to undertail with blurry black streaks extending from breast to flanks. The back was grayish black with faint pale braces and two pair of bright, white wing-bars delineated by a dark panel. The center tail rectrices were dark and the outer rectrices were white."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 10/5/25 4:31 pm From: Mitch Siemens via groups.io <msiemens805...> Subject: [slocobirding] Oceano Lagoon TENNESSEE WARBLER
I had good looks today at about 11:00 of a Tennessee warbler on the peninsula. It was in a small mixed flock including at least two orange crowned warblers and a few yellow-rumped warblers.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
California Condor (Gymnogyps californianus) (1)
- Reported Oct 04, 2025 11:17 by Holly Middlekauff
- 10612–11502 Santa Rosa Creek Rd, Templeton US-CA 35.54601, -120.86987, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.86987&<ll...>,-120.86987 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277300378 - Comments: "Soaring over Santa Rosa Creek road, heading north or north east. I had an excellent look - I could not see tags. Looked like a mature adult. Terrible pics from iPhone as it left the scene."
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 04, 2025 11:32 by Barbara Webster
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277304592 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Large flycatcher with yellow belly up to white throat, greenish back and gray head, with dark mask and noticeably heavy, large bill. Plain brown wings and long, brown notched tail. Bill distinctly heavier than nearby Cassin’s Kingbird for good contrast."
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 04, 2025 11:32 by Pam Cahn
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277304591 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Large flycatcher with yellow belly up to white throat, greenish back and gray head, with dark mask and noticeably heavy, large bill. Plain brown wings and long, brown notched tail. Bill distinctly heavier than nearby Cassin’s Kingbird for good contrast."
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1)
- Reported Oct 04, 2025 08:10 by Billy Fletcher
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277292625 - Comments: "Kingbird with proportional large bill and yellow covering belly to collarbone area. Non vocal. Fly catching off cypress on south end of peninsula over lake. Bad photos available."
Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum) (1)
- Reported Oct 04, 2025 11:04 by Scott Inman
- Harmony Headlands State Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.0018122&<ll...>,-121.0018122 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277268246 - Comments: "Originally picked up by Merlin ID. Short, stocky sparrow with nice white eye ring. Large grey bill. Flat top head with light central stripe. Short tail. In coyote brush along HH trail."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 14:30 by Kaaren Perry
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277237186 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Appeared to be about the size of a Red-winged Blackbird it walked the grassy area at the east end of the park near the picnic area, sometimes poking in the grass and other times stopping and standing erect. Female type plumage. The crown was marked with a dark stripe , buffy face and post ocular stripe, bill conical shape and pinkish coloration. The upper parts were brown with strong streaking. Primaries were dark with pale tips, pointed tail feathers. Underparts were a buffy yellow with some subtle streaking on the sides of breast and belly. Some grayish blush on upper breast was observed but could be attributed to distance of observation and poor lighting. Legs appeared pale. Only highly Zoomed photos possible."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1)
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 09:48 by Herb Elliott
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277075970 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "… sparrow-like bird, yellowish-buff overall, pinkish conical like bill, brown stripes on the crown and streaked dark brown on the back and flanks. Found yesterday, 02 Oct 25 by found by Jackie Knowlton."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 09:38 by Doug Drynan
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277173720 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "continuing bird first observed by Jackie Knowleton. when I arrived at the park, there were already several birders observing it at the edge of the western willow strip and the mowed grass near the dog park. The bird was not shy and was actively forging in the grass. fairly large with a distinctive yellowish buff tone that was pretty striking when the sun hit it. buffy median stripe on the top of the head with dark borders each side. distinctive dark post ocular line. Black streaking on sides and along the flanks. back buffy olive streaked with black. Pale bill. photos."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 08:50 by Petra Clayton
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277052544 - Media: 18 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female/immature since 10/2/2025 ( Jackie Knowlton)
Sparrow-like, but a bit lager; yellow-buff face, chin, breast and belly; dark brown crown with broad yellow-buff median stripe; pale lores; dark brown line, starting thin behind the eye and getting wider towards the back of the head; faint dark streaks on the lower flanks and rump; back and wings mottled brown; two broad yellow-buff stripes on the back ("braces"); two pale wingbars; rose-colored bill; mauve-colored legs.
Actively foraging along the entire length of the lawn area between the dog park and the riparian area along Alva Paul Creek, occasionally disappearing into the tall grassy border.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video, showing the Bobolink catching and eating a worm and insects:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54831978852/in/dateposted-public/" title="Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus), Morro Bay, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54831978852_16b7ed9609_z.jpg" alt="Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus), Morro Bay, CA" /></a>
For a longer version of the foraging behavior click on the image below for a YouTube video:
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/T7qPFgNo1o0?si=kD_4unMr1iA3VHML" frameborder="0"></iframe>"
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 08:34 by Kevin Zimmer
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277277584 - Media: 19 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing individual first reported yesterday afternoon by Jaqueline Knowlton, but then missed by multiple searchers later yesterday. Details and photos to follow. Very fresh, ochre-buff plumage, boldly streaked blackish-brown on back (with conspicuous black-outlined, buff 'braces' on either side of the mantle); boldly striped crown, with buff coronal stripe framed by broad, blackish lateral crown stripes; golden-tawny nape; fine dark streaking the length of the sides; buffy lores, whitish eyering and thin blackish-brown postocular streak; thick, rather conical, dark pinkish bill; large feet; and characteristic pointed rectrices. Walked on lawn, feeding on grass seeds. Quite confiding, and seemingly not bothered by the presence of multiple gawking birders. This was SLO County bird #415 for me!"
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (1)
- Reported Oct 04, 2025 09:21 by Barbara Webster
- Garden St, Los Osos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8502207&<ll...>,-120.8502207 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277299327 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Sharp pointed oriole bill. Yellow underside. Distinct white wing bars. A bit larger than House Finches it was perched next to. Feeding on the Bottlebrush. Unable to get photo of wings."
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (1)
- Reported Oct 04, 2025 09:21 by Pam Cahn
- Garden St, Los Osos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8502207&<ll...>,-120.8502207 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277299328 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Sharp pointed oriole bill. Yellow underside. Distinct white wing bars. A bit larger than House Finches it was perched next to. Feeding on the Bottlebrush. Unable to get photo of wings."
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 08:34 by Kevin Zimmer
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277277584 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Not previously reported from this spot this fall. Details and very poor photos to follow. This warbler remained high in the interior of the willows and other tall trees along the riparian corridor, making it extremely difficult to photograph and to point out to other observers present. Dark-backed, with conspicuous whitish 'braces' on either side of the mantle; orange on median forecrown, supercilium, throat & upper breast (brightest) and neck sides (latter wrapping around a triangular blackish auricular patch that was pointed at the bottom and rear), fading to orange-yellow at the sides of the chest and on the lower breast, which blended to white on the belly, flanks and crissum; fairly bold black streaking on the sides of the chest, becoming fainter and dusky gray lower down the sides; broad white wingbars on folded wings; outer rectrices (as viewed from below on the folded tail) mostly white, tipped black. I initially thought this bird to be either a bright adult female or bright HY male, but in looking at my poor photos, the bird looks brighter than I perceived it in the field, and could be an adult male. Age & sex uncertain."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 04, 2025 07:42 by Carol Comeau
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277240280 - Comments: "Pointed out by other birders. Thank you! Greenish head and back. White eyeing. Two white wing bars. Whitish underbody. A tiny amount of chestnut color on flanks."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Oct 04, 2025 07:38 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277319538 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Likely a continuing bird based on comparative photos - very active warbler observed opposite dog park quickly foraging from willows to sycamores to the ground and back was lime green on crown and back in low light (but appeared burnt yellow in bright sun) with faint black rump streaking, two cream yellow/green wing-bars, gray face and auriculars, complete eye-ring and nearly all white below except for chestnut smudge on sides/flanks and black tail edges and tips."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 08:50 by Petra Clayton
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277052544 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing presumably hatch-year male since 9/23/2025 (Reef Comer).
Lime-green crown and back; gray face; white eye ring; pale underparts; chestnut color on the flanks."
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Date: 10/4/25 8:29 am From: susang302 via groups.io <susang302...> Subject: [slocobirding] Swainson's Thrush as YB
Two Swainson's Thrush have arrived for winter. Feeding in and under the fruiting Catalina Cherry hedgerow and bathing several times daily at the ground drip. Most active when Robins are feeding during Golden hours.
If anyone would like seedling Prunus lyonii, I have hundreds coming up. Scrub Jays are good propagators. The amount of birdlife they attract is astounding--over a long period of two to three months, late summer to deep fall. Evergreen, upright, shrubby, multi-trunked, to 35', can be lightly pruned for fullness. Very drought hardy but will take regular irrigation.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
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Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1)
- Reported Oct 02, 2025 09:40 by marlin harms
- San Geronimo Ck--Estero Bluffs SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9338218&<ll...>,-120.9338218 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277014152 - Comments: "We saw the previously noted juvenile perched in a large willow directly above the creek and just below the windmill. It was partly hidden by leaves when we first saw it from a distance and as we approached closer we noted how unpatterned and gray-brown the back was. With a closer, side view we did see the pale-fringed wing coverts, orange eye and thicker, blackish bill. It remained perched for most of 10 minutes as we approached and watched it, while a few Black-crowned Night-herons flew both into and out of other parts of the same tree."
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1)
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 09:28 by Andrew Fleming
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277058301 - Comments: "Perched on a tree the end of the peninsula. First seen from here (35.1075905, -120.6261260) and later from across the lagoon here (35.1072940, -120.6264871) with the Zacharys. Heard it’s trilling call once. Lighter grey head, yellow green chest extending to white throat patch. Greenish back. Thick bill."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 14:49 by Mike Bush
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277089275 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Rarity. Found yesterday, 2Oct, by Jackie Knowlton.
Overall yellow is in appearance with brown back and stripes along the side of the belly. Rufous crown and brown stripe behind the eye. Pinkish comical bill.
Seen in open lawn west of picnic benches. I had waited for it to appear for 90 minutes with no luck earlier in the late morning - afternoon."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 14:40 by Pam Cahn
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277090807 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Seen with several other birders. Large, sparrow-sized. Striped crown. Yellow cast on throat and breast. Clear breast. Bold stripes on back. Feeding in short grass."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 14:40 by Barbara Webster
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277090806 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Seen with several other birders. Large sparrow-sized. Striped crown. Yellow cast on throat and breast. Clear breast. Bold stripes on back. Feeding in short grass."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 14:21 by Tom Edell
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277091200 - Media: 1 Video, 3 Photos
- Comments: "This bird was foraging on the lawn near the concrete picnic tables that are just west of the bathroom. I was foraging on the lawn when I arrived and continued to do so while I was there except for one brief more into the riparian habitat along Alva Paul Creek. The was a somewhat small bird about the size of a House Finch or Brown-headed Cowbird (neither present) and it foraging on the lawn like a pipit as it constantly walked and occasionally chased after an insect. It stood out because of its yellowish color and strongly patterned crown with thick brown outer stripes and a thinner yellow central crown stripe. the face was yellow with pale whitish lores and a then dark line that flared behind the eye. The bill looked reddish in the field. It was a fairly bright yellow below (hatch year?) with diffused dark streaks on the flanks and the back was streaked with brown and yellow, the broad yellow streaks forming two braces. The brown greater coverts were edged with pale yellow but the flight feathers were paler, whitish edged. The tail feathers were brown and edged with pale yellow. Photo and video."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 13:45 by John Luther
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277106381 - Comments: "Continuing from October 2
and this morning. Many
excellent photos by others
and video by Tom Edell. First seen on grass near dog park
and then walked and ran on
grass pursing insects and
ended up near picnic tables."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 13:12 by Norman Pillsbury
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277117684 - Media: 10 Photos
- Comments: "Found by Jackie Knowlton on Oct 2, 2025. Continuing. Found near picnic tables in grass eating non stop. Oblivious to birders nearby. It approached within 20 feet of me hopping and making quick movements to flush insects. Photos."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 13:05 by Jay Carroll
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277080319 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "This female-type Bobolink was found here the previous afternoon by Jackie Knowlton, and subsequently seen by many observers; it was observed foraging in mown grass adjacent to a willow riparian habitat in the park; photos."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1)
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 09:58 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277062643 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird (Jackie Knowlton - 10/02/25) was observed foraging in grass edge along willow grove opposite the dog park. Stocky and striking yellow and brown, this bird was much larger than sparrows in the area and was heavily streaked with dark brown on back with two yellow back "braces," brown-streaked crown and nape, yellow supercilium, cream yellow eye ring bisected at rear by brown eye-line, reddish/pink beak with dark tip and showed a bright yellow wash from face and throat below to undertail with indistinct dark streaking on sides and flanks."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 09:55 by marlin harms
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277071182 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Eventually the Bobolink was seen foraging near the edge of mown grass adjacent to taller grass. After less than 2 minutes it disappeared back into the tall grass. Highly cropped photos."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 09:28 by The Spotting Twohees
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277031237 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird found 10/2 by Jacqueline Knowlton. Large sparrow size bird. Pink bill. Very yellow buff breast. Two thick dark stripes on head. Yellowish supercilium. Dark eyeline behind the eyes. White lores."
Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 09:07 by Eric Wier
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277078511 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing presumed female/non-breeding male found by Jaqueline Knowlton on September 2nd. Yellowish and dark medium sized passerine with pink, sharply pointed bill; bold, dark head stripes; thin, dark line extending back from eye; boldly patterned back and wings; fine broken streaks on breast, flanks and feathered part of upper legs. Bird was observed foraging about fifteen minutes foraging on mowed grass, mostly at edge of mowed and one foot high not mowed grass."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 14:40 by Barbara Webster
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277090806 - Comments: "Continuing bird seen with several other birders. Bright green back. Clear white underside. Two bold wing bars. Distinct eye ring. When it came lower, we could see hint of chestnut on its side."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 14:40 by Pam Cahn
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277090807 - Comments: "Continuing bird seen with several other birders. Bright green back. Clear white underside. Two bold wing bars. Distinct eye ring. When it came lower, we could see hint of chestnut on its side."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 14:21 by Tom Edell
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277091200 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird showing a small amount of faint chestnut color on the flanks. Other will pale below, gray face with a white eyering, a lime-green back and crown, and two wingbars of which the upper was tinged with yellow. A photyo of the undertail shows it was white with dark corners.Photo"
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Oct 03, 2025 09:07 by Eric Wier
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S277078511 - Comments: "First reported by Reef Comer on September 23rd. Warbler actively foraging in willow trees with whitish underparts and face, white eye ring, yellow crown, greenish-yellow back, pale yellow wing bars on dark wings, and dark upper tail surface. Seen at footbridge."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2025 13:37 by Lisa Gattuso
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276179569 - Comments: "Same bird photographed by Petra Clayton on 10/1. We saw this bird actively foraging in the Willows across from the dog park on 9/28, but were unable to identify with a photograph due to flitty nature of bird and dark and gloomy inner willow location. Reticent to post at the time, as we had no photo. So, thank you, Petra!!
We noted:
warbler with greenish crown and upper back, prominent white eye-ring on pale face, 2 bright yellow wing-bars, pale buff underneath. in same tree area as 3 Townsend Warblers"
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2025 13:37 by Jan Bugge
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276194245 - Comments: "Same bird photographed by Petra Clayton on 10/1. We saw this bird actively foraging in the Willows across from the dog park on 9/28, but were unable to identify with a photograph due to flitty nature of bird and dark and gloomy inner willow location. Reticent to post at the time, as we had no photo. So, thank you, Petra!!
We noted:
warbler with greenish crown and upper back, prominent white eye-ring on pale face, 2 bright yellow wing-bars, pale buff underneath. in same tree area as 3 Townsend Warblers"
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 10/3/25 5:19 pm From: susang302 via groups.io <susang302...> Subject: [slocobirding] Fem/1ymM fa American Redstart -Nipomo
Tuesday About 1 pm, sun shining, a bright black and yellow-tailed form buzzed me near my front door, dashing in & then out of my shaded porch. First thought was Western swallowtail? No-- black too bold. but it disappeared into the Catalina Cherry (Prunus) hedge.
One hour later, a small warbler sized bird appeared alone at the grd drip saucer to bathe, later preening in the open branches of the Prunus hedge.
Markings: grayish head,chest and throat without flecks, bright yellow at shoulders, whitish undersides, olive-gray back, and dark tail except for bright yellow at the base of primaries which showed both from above and in-flight. Black eyes. White eye ring and a hint of white @supraloral. Not traveling with the regular group of smalls that makes the rounds 2-3x daily. Assuming feeding on Prunus fruit skins & insects.
Since Tues. have seen it everyday in the Prunus and/or the grd drip bath. Moves very fast, often cocking and fanning that bright yellow & black tail.
F Summer Tanager continues feeding on Prunus fruit skins. Barn Owl appeared at 6 am in the nest box this morning for 1st time in 10 yrs.
Located 1 mi west of 101 near Pomeroy & Sandydale, end of Cory Way west side.
Date: 10/3/25 4:59 pm From: Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1...> Subject: [slocobirding] Bobolink continues at Del Mar Park
The Bobolink discovered by Jackie Knowlton yesterday at Del Mar Park continued today. It was reported in the morning at the west end, moving along the grasses near the dog park. Around 2:00 it was again reported, now having moved to the east and was moving in the grasses near the stone picnic tables just off the paved trail from the parking area. I watched from the benches as it walked nearby in the mowed grasses. It seemed focused on the possibility of feeding and notf lushed by a few nearby birders. From my vantage point the time of day did not allow for good photos since I was facing into the sun.
A Chestnut-sided Warbler was spotted also, moving in the willows along the creek near the bridge.
A new county bird added to my list was a real treat! Thanks to those present for their assistance. 😊
Date: 10/3/25 10:37 am From: Claudia Freitas via groups.io <cfreitas365...> Subject: [slocobirding] FOS Golden-crowned sparrow
Looked out the window this morning and there is one Golden-crowned sparrow out among the juncos and finches. First for my season. Expecting the White-crowns any day now.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1)
- Reported Oct 02, 2025 18:41 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Tidelands Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8514118&<ll...>,-120.8514118 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276929074 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Juvenile bird perched in cypress tree south of public docks - Short white streaks on head with orange iris, heavy, blunt gray bill, cream/brown breast streaking, brown on back with white feather edging and small, triangular terminal spots on secondary and primary coverts."
Tropical Kingbird (Tyrannus melancholicus) (1)
- Reported Oct 02, 2025 09:17 by Jake Hager
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276900056 - Comments: "Seen briefly perched at southeast end of the lagoon near Pier ave. Gave a trilly call distinct from Cassin’s. Bright yellow underside, greenish back, thick bill. Seen by Jim and Brian as well."
Dark-eyed Junco (Slate-colored) (Junco hyemalis hyemalis/carolinensis) (1)
- Reported Oct 02, 2025 16:50 by Alexander Yan
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276914691 - Comments: "Last seen around 35.39814° N, 120.85818° W, mixed with other juncos and the group all flew into trees for the night. Female/Immature type, dirty grey head mixed with brown, white underneath with brown sides."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) (1)
- Reported Oct 01, 2025 09:37 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276719742 - Comments: "Fem/imm. I’d been talking to a birder who said he’d heard one. We then discussed the call sounds compared to Anna’s. So I was on the lookout and listening. A while later, a fem/immature hummingbird landed in an oak, providing an unobstructed profile view. The bird was sleek and small-headed with a long downcurved bill, though what stuck me was its clean greyish underside and no green on its flanks The underside also contrasted strongly with its dark wings and green back. The chin was also clean and pale grey. I forgot to note length of wings (See black-and-white warbler for general area)."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Oct 01, 2025 09:45 by Petra Clayton
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276740623 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female/hatch year bird since 9/21/25 (Steve Tillmann).
Boldly streaked black and white pattern; black upperparts with white streaks; grayish-white face; white eyering; black crown with broad white center stripe; broad white supercilium; creamy-white throat and underparts; a buff wash on the lower flanks and vent; black streaks on the flanks; black spots on the undertail; two white wingbars; sharply pointed bill; black legs with yellow toes.
Quickly moving nuthatch-like up and down trunks and branches, in oaks in the southeast portion of the park.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video, showing the warbler searching for insects in bark crevices and from foliage:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54826879250/in/dateposted-public/" title="Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia), San Luis Obispo, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54826879250_bb1b88fdee_z.jpg" alt="Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia), San Luis Obispo, CA" /></a>"
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 08:15 by Kevin Zimmer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276714349 - Media: 9 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing HY male. Yellow-orange throat, breast, superciliary, and neck side, the latter wrapping around and framing a dusky, triangular-shaped auricular patch that was pointed at the rear and the bottom; dark lores and eyeline, interrupted by pale arcs above and below the eye; bill largely pinkish at base, dusky at tip; lower abdomen and crissum white, with some dusky streaking on sides of chest and flanks; dusky wings with two broad, bold white wingbars; mantle dark with prominent whitish 'braces' on either side. Photos to follow."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 16:52 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276642685 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Bird observed briefly in fading light high in willow canopy just west of creek bridge showed greenish head and back, two whitish wing-bars, white eye-ring and was all white below except for black edging on sides and tips of undertail. No chestnut marks were observed in the field, but image #1 may show slight chestnut coloration on visible side but it is difficult to be sure."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 08:15 by Kevin Zimmer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276714349 - Comments: "Continuing; possibly two individuals: the first, seen with Ann Stockert, Roger Hammer, KH and Reef Comer along the maintenance road, appeared to have faint chestnut wash on the sides; whereas my other sighting was on the northeast corner of the lagoon, some 30 minutes later, and I could not detect any chestnut on the flanks of that bird. Both sightings were of warblers with fairly bright, pale green upper parts, pale grayish-white underparts, with bold white eyerings, two pale yellowish wing bars, and with longish tails held partly cocked (above the horizontal), and with wings held partly drooped."
Blackpoll Warbler (Setophaga striata) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 08:15 by Kevin Zimmer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276714349 - Comments: "Presumed continuing individual in with mixed-species flock on the trail along the east side of the lagoon. Typical fall plumaged bird, with olive-green back (streaked dusky), crown and nape; pale yellowish cheeks (lacking dark patch of Townsend's), thin dark eyeline bordered above by narrow yellow superciliary; throat and upper breast washed pale yellow, contrasting with mostly white lower abdomen; flanks with blurry, dusky streaks; white tail spots; two narrow white wingbars on dusky wings."
Prairie Warbler (Setophaga discolor) (1)
- Reported Oct 01, 2025 09:45 by Petra Clayton
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276740623 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing since 9/29/25 (Nick Belardes).
Greenish-gray crown, nape and back; yellow throat, breast and belly; black streaks on flanks; weak wingbars; white eye arcs; small pointed bill.
In bottle brush in the southeast portion of the park."
Prairie Warbler (Setophaga discolor) (1)
- Reported Oct 01, 2025 09:37 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276719742 - Comments: "Continuing male originally found by me. Another birder refound in bottlebrush tree. When I saw it, the bird was in an adjacent bottlebrush tree approximately here: 35.26754° N, 120.65992° W This bird is now well documented. Photos"
Prairie Warbler (Setophaga discolor) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 15:37 by Kevin Zimmer
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276720571 - Comments: "Continuing individual, first found by Nick Belardes at this spot yesterday morning. Seen briefly, high in bottlebrush and beneath the canopy of an adjacent oak. Warbler with bright yellow underparts (fading on vent) boldly streaked with black on the sides of the upper chest, and less distinctly with dusky lower on sides/flanks' wings with indistinct yellow wingbars; head with yellow superciliary and prominent arcs above and below the eye, dusky eyeline, and distinctive blackish 'bridle' forming a lower border to the cheek; bill appeared somewhat pale (pinkish-orange) at least basally, from below; bobbed tail continuously while in view, and gave a couple of dry chip notes. I did not manage any photos."
Townsend's x Hermit Warbler (hybrid) (Setophaga townsendi x occidentalis) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 13:17 by Kevin Zimmer
- Meadow Creek/Monarch Butterfly Preserve, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6328654&<ll...>,-120.6328654 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276712286 - Media: 14 Photos
- Comments: "Male bird that looked identical to one that I found and photographed in the exact same spot nearly a year ago. Photos to follow."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Philadelphia Vireo (Vireo philadelphicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 17:30 by Reef Comer
- San Simeon SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1235286&<ll...>,-121.1235286 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276592954 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing from earlier this morning. Found in mixed flock between campsites 65 and 66. Stout vireo with obvious white supercillium, dark eyeline, bright lemon yellow throat and breast, and greenish back. Despite bad lighting, Lou was able to get some pics. Only my second sighting ever of this species!"
Philadelphia Vireo (Vireo philadelphicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 09:55 by Kevin Zimmer
- San Simeon SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1235286&<ll...>,-121.1235286 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276593666 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Details and poor photos to follow. I found this bird shortly after arriving at the park, as I was en route to looking for the Vermilion Flycatcher that had been present through late yesterday afternoon. I walked the boardwalk trail from the Washburn Day Use area to the road on the back side of the campground, crossing the bridge in the process. I first found the vireo Just north of the bridge, and on the west side of the road. It was in dense willows and briefly popped into view at eye-level, but only for a couple of seconds. Just long enough for me to positively ID it, noting that it was a smallish, compact vireo, that lacked obvious wingbars; had an olive back and wings with a slightly contrasting grayer crown; extensively yellow-washed underparts that were brightest and most saturated on the throat and upper breast, and which faded towards the middle of the abdomen; a distinct, whitish superciliary that arched somewhat over the eye, and which was set off below by dark lores and a dark eyeline. Suggestive of a very bright Warbling Vireo, but with more contrasting gray crown versus greener back; much more extensively yellow below, with the brightest yellow on the throat and breast instead of the flanks; and with a different facial pattern due to the dark lores and line through the eye. Larger and differently shaped bill than a Tennessee Warbler, and with yellow washed crissum. Almost immediately, the vireo disappeared from view, lost in a flurry of Bushtits, Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Townsend's and Orange-crowned warblers. I spent 30-45 minutes trying to relocate it, without luck, and then posted my find to the WhatsApp rare bird alert. Shortly thereafter, I ran into Jack and Petra Clayton and Dave Lawrence over on Van Gordon Creek Road, looking for the Vermilion Flycatcher, and told them about the vireo. Jack and Petra followed me back to the boardwalk and the spot where I had seen the vireo, and together, we searched for the bird without luck. On my way out the boardwalk, I had a glimpse of a vireo that I feel certain was the Philly, at the first wideout spot on the boardwalk as you enter the tall willows from the Washburn Day Use parking lot. I then hiked out to check the creek mouth/lagoon and the beach, and as I was returning to my car, I ran into Jack and Petra again, and they told me that KH had just relocated the vireo, at the same spot along the boardwalk where I had last glimpsed it. KH showed me his photos, which definitely served to document the record. All of us returned to the spot of my original sighting, and then fanned out from there. I relocated the bird in the main campground loop at ca. 1345h, and managed a few barely identifiable photos in which one inconvenient leaf manages to obscure much of the bird's face. This was only my 2nd or 3rd record of this species for the county."
Philadelphia Vireo (Vireo philadelphicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 08:28 by Nick & Jane
- San Simeon SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1235286&<ll...>,-121.1235286 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276548368 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Small compact vireo about the size of an orange-crowned warbler hopping amid upper canopy, right over my head, which was only 8-11 feet up. This was on the wooden boardwalk just before it meets Washburn Campground Road. Here: 35.59463° N, 121.12231° W. I was confused because I thought I was seeing a too-colorful tiny red-eyed. It wasn’t until I got home when I could examine photos and flip open my bird guide and get a solid ID. I did note that this vireo was compact, short-tailed, green above, yellow below, and had a yellow throat. It had a more contrasting face pattern than warbling vireo and broader dark lores. Shorter bill than red-eyed. Found at around 9:45 a.m. (I thought it had been later but checked the checklist time and estimated). First record of this species at this hotspot."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 11:35 by Luke Jensen
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276589458 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "First seen in live oak strip where the Virginia's warbler was seen on several accasions. Was high up in canopy coming down to mid branches as well. Distinct black and white streaking on wings and back. It made a loud chip call then flew to Casa Diablo spot were it came into great view 10 feet from my camera. pics!"
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 07:32 by Barbara Webster
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276547543 - Comments: "Continuing bird. Seen with other birders while in the oaks just west of path intersection. Working over the trunks nuthatch-like. Black and white striped head, wings and back. Pale below."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 07:32 by Pam Cahn
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276547546 - Comments: "Continuing bird. Seen with other birders while in the oaks just west of path intersection. Working over the trunks nuthatch-like. Black and white striped head, wings and back. Pale below."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 10:51 by Nick & Jane
- Santa Rosa Creek-below Windsor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1064448&<ll...>,-121.1064448 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276541467 - Comments: "Continuing (assuming). Didn’t get a look at its throat. Overall behavior was to climb on tree trunk, but mostly hid from view. Did see its overall black-and-white pattern—striped head, back, wings, white wingbars, dark spotted white undertail. No pic. I tried."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 09:21 by Jake Hager
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276541924 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Discovered by Nick yesterday—first noticed unstreaked, lighter underparts compared to an orange-crowned; distinct pale eyebrow contrasting w dark line thru eye on closer inspection."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 07:32 by Barbara Webster
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276547543 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Viewed with several other birders. Actively foraging in Bottlebrush immediately to west of oak grove. Dark eyeline, greenish above, yellow tinged below with whitish undertail."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 07:32 by Pam Cahn
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276547546 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Viewed with several other birders. Actively foraging in Bottlebrush immediately to west of oak grove. Dark eyeline, greenish above, yellow tinged below with whitish undertail."
Virginia's Warbler (Leiothlypis virginiae) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 10:51 by Nick & Jane
- Santa Rosa Creek-below Windsor, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1064448&<ll...>,-121.1064448 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276541467 - Comments: "Only brief looks, but full profile. Overall grey. Large bold eyering. Yellow undertail. Can’t recall how much yellow, if any, on chest, or throat details. Quickly lost the bird even though I had been close to it. Lame. No photo"
Palm Warbler (Western) (Setophaga palmarum palmarum) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 14:33 by Tom Edell
- San Simeon SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1235286&<ll...>,-121.1235286 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276396239 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "one in the brush on the north side of San Simeon Creek Road. Brownish warbler with a dark bill pale supercilium over a dark eyeline, diffuse streaking on the underparts and yellow undertail coverts that my photos showed wrapped up onto the upper tail coverts. There were two faint wingbars on the brown wings. Photos"
Prairie Warbler (Setophaga discolor) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 11:35 by Luke Jensen
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276589458 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Found on the grass near small desiduos trees flying up a bit to quick for the shot of it being on the ground. Then I came out into view in small random mostly bare tree and got great pictures. It stayed their for a 8 minuites but sadly Barry came to late for great pics. 2 minuites after they got their, the bird flew into neighborhood. The tree was about 30 feet away from bridge. a surprise to see it on the ground especially in such a random tree!! Green on back of head with black streaking on flanks and bright yellow overall body. Pics!!"
Prairie Warbler (Setophaga discolor) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 09:21 by Jake Hager
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276541924 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Found by Nick yesterday—Quickly moving among bottlebrush trees near the middle of the park. Bright yellow with black streaks on sides; streaking less bold than the head of a Townsend’s by comparison. Seen well with Ann, Brian, Diana, Eric et al. Could only manage a lousy pic."
Prairie Warbler (Setophaga discolor) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 07:32 by Pam Cahn
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276547546 - Comments: "Viewed with several other birders. Ann Stockert got a nice photo. It was actively foraging high in the Bottlebrush. Bright yellow throat and underside. Dark spots below neck and bold streaks on its sides."
Prairie Warbler (Setophaga discolor) (1)
- Reported Sep 30, 2025 07:32 by Barbara Webster
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276547543 - Comments: "Viewed with several other birders. Ann Stockert got a nice photo. It was actively foraging high in the Bottlebrush. Bright yellow throat and underside. Dark spots below neck and bold streaks on its sides."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/30/25 2:46 pm From: Jim Royer via groups.io <jrmotmot...> Subject: [slocobirding] 2025 Elfin Forest Big Sit Event - October 12
Sorry for the late notice. I'm looking for birders to help out with this year's big sit. The annual Elfin Forest Big Sit will take place on Sunday October 12 this year. This is the 27th year for the annual local Big Sit from the Elfin Forest (last year's local count did not occur). It is part of a nationwide (some foreign countries also) count started by the New Haven Bird Club in Connecticut. All participating counts take place on the same weekend. For those who have not participated, we will bird in shifts and keep a list of all the birds we see and hear in one day from one spot - the overlook of Morro Bay known as "Bush Lupine Point". From this vantage point we will be able to see the coastal scrub of the Elfin Forest, the Morro Bay Estuary, the nearby hills and the edge of residential Los Osos. We have tallied as many as 122 species in one day from this one spot! Many years we spot 100 or more species. It"s a beautiful location with an incredible view. The birding changes as the tide goes in and out and the day warms up. (The long term prediction is for clear skies and highs in the low to mid 70's). It is an opportunity to meet many of the local birders and to share food and drink as the day progresses. We will also compete against other big sits across the country and in foreign countries, who will count on the same weekend. See https://www.thebigsit.org for more info on the Big Sit. Prior unusual birds recorded at the Elfin Forest Big Sit include Snow Goose, Eurasian Wigeon, Black Rail, Pacific Golden Plover, Pectoral Sandpiper, Parasitic Jaeger, Sabine's Gull, Black Skimmer, Reddish Egret, Short-eared Owl, Burrowing Owl, Red-throated Pipit, Clay-colored Sparrow, Palm Warbler, and Blackpoll Warbler.
Before the count, I need to know who is willing to help so that I can make sure we have coverage from early morning till sunset. The count needs birders who feel comfortable identifying all the usual local birds. Please let me know if you can help spot birds on this Big Sit and when you are able to help. I will try to assign one or two hour shifts for spotters at a time when they are available so that at least two birders are present for the whole day. Birders who are unable to commit to a time can come at any time. Anyone who wants to come out and see how things are going is welcome after 9 am. Any and all snacks are welcome for the counters and others present. Please let me know when you can count by Saturday, October 4, so I can make a schedule for the count. Thanks to all who are able to help. It is a good time and place for some relaxing birding from a scenic location. I will give directions to the count site before the count.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 09:55 by Petra Clayton
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276404729 - Media: 11 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile at this eBird hotspot since 8/31/25 (Sam Larkin).
Most likely the same individual that had been observed at Morro Creek Mouth from 8/30/25 to 8/31/25. (Last eBird report at Morro Creek mouth: 8/31/25 at 4:35 p.m.)
Viewed from the Prefumo Creek mouth. - First observed at a distance across the lake. It then flew closer to the viewpoint before flying off again, but returned to the area at the creek mouth.
Overall white with faint gray wingtips; greenish-yellow legs and feet and a bill that was light at the base and dark on the distal half.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54821998975/in/dateposted-public/" title="Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea), juvenile, San Luis Obispo, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54821998975_3969135e41_z.jpg" alt="Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea), juvenile, San Luis Obispo, CA" /></a>"
Vermilion Flycatcher (Pyrocephalus rubinus) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 15:00 by Terri Osborn
- San Simeon Creek Road, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.0775634&<ll...>,-121.0775634 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276411423 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Small plump bird, gray above and vermilion below, vermilion cap and forehead, gray patch through the eye and wrapping around the nape and small pointed bill. Seen foraging along Van Gordon Cr. Rd. on the fence along the edge of the campground behind Campsite #21 and east of the restroom building in the middle of the campground loop. (35.59909° N,121.12196°W) First report of this species at this hotspot."
Northern Rough-winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx serripennis) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:38 by Reef Comer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276382928 - Comments: "*Late. One seen distantly but well flying around the county park from the campground. Medium-sized swallow with entirely warm brown upperparts and head and throat, entirely pale below without any breast band as in BANS. Also warmer brown and less contrasty overall than that species. No pics."
Northern Rough-winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx serripennis) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:38 by Ann Stockert
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276369261 - Comments: "*Late. One seen distantly but well flying around the county park from the campground. Medium-sized swallow with entirely warm brown upperparts and head and throat, entirely pale below without any breast band as in BANS. Also warmer brown and less contrasty overall than that species. No pics."
Northern Rough-winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx serripennis) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:38 by Roger Hammer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276391783 - Comments: "*Late. One seen distantly but well flying around the county park from the campground. Medium-sized swallow with entirely warm brown upperparts and head and throat, entirely pale below without any breast band as in BANS. Also warmer brown and less contrasty overall than that species. No pics."
Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2025 07:00 by Kevin Zimmer
- KJZ yard, Garcia Rd, Atascadero, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.7064838&<ll...>,-120.7064838 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276216690 - Comments: "FOS. Typical Catharus thrush, with brown upper parts contrasting with bright rufous tail; grayish flanks; spotted breast. Came in to the fountain of our pond to bathe late in the afternoon."
Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:38 by Ann Stockert
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276369261 - Comments: "*Seems more or less on time? Had one on opposite side of campground yesterday also. One h/o giving distinctive “ree!” calls a few times at beginning of Norswing trail closest to Pier Ave. Call similar to SPTO but higher pitched and less grumbly, etc."
Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:38 by Roger Hammer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276391783 - Comments: "*Seems more or less on time? Had one on opposite side of campground yesterday also. One h/o giving distinctive “ree!” calls a few times at beginning of Norswing trail closest to Pier Ave. Call similar to SPTO but higher pitched and less grumbly, etc."
Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:38 by Reef Comer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276382928 - Comments: "*Seems more or less on time? Had one on opposite side of campground yesterday also. One h/o giving distinctive “ree!” calls a few times at beginning of Norswing trail closest to Pier Ave. Call similar to SPTO but higher pitched and less grumbly, etc."
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 10:30 by The Spotting Twohees
- Garden St, Los Osos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8502207&<ll...>,-120.8502207 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276342814 - Media: 9 Photos
- Comments: "Found by Jim Royer this am. This bird was foraging in a small bottle brush tree. It would work it's way to the outside of the bush and gave us good looks. Overall size was smaller than a Hooded Oriole. The bill was also smaller. Yellow head, breast and belly. Dark wings with two wing bars."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:55 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276339757 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female. Seen a few times in various locations in eastern park areas. Last seen in oaks between both paths, about twenty yards west of where paths converge. Black-and-white striped head, back, and wings. White double wingbars. Pale throat. Black streaks on flanks, black spots on undertail coverts, otherwise white underside. Called its soft chip a few times. Photos."
Tennessee Warbler (Leiothlypis peregrina) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:55 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276339757 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Spotted this bird(s) in a few areas. Guessing only one bird and that the light made both sightings seem a little different. I'll describe the second sighting, which was more in the open, and on a bottlebrush tree, where it was pecking away at red flowers either for bugs or nectar. I was able to see its dark eyeline, white undertail coverts, and lime coloration. Soon, it was chased away by a prairie warbler, which flew in out of nowhere and body slammed the Tennessee out of the way for hogging the flower. The first sighting was near Casa Diablo. Its chip was sharp, high, "stik." Photos"
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:38 by Ann Stockert
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276369261 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "*Expected in small numbers. Dull OCWA with massive spike of a bill, streaked undertail covs, and greener upper and paler lower eye arcs. Silent. Here: (35.108587, -120.627837). Pics."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:38 by Reef Comer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276382928 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "*Expected in small numbers. Dull OCWA with massive spike of a bill, streaked undertail covs, and greener upper and paler lower eye arcs. Silent. Here: (35.108587, -120.627837). Pics."
Orange-crowned Warbler (sordida) (Leiothlypis celata sordida) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:38 by Roger Hammer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276391783 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "*Expected in small numbers. Dull OCWA with massive spike of a bill, streaked undertail covs, and greener upper and paler lower eye arcs. Silent. Here: (35.108587, -120.627837). Pics."
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (1)
- Reported Sep 28, 2025 09:40 by Petra Clayton
- Islay Creek Campground--Montana de Oro SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8838502&<ll...>,-120.8838502 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276191361 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Yellow breast; white belly and undertail coverts; dark wings; dark corners on the underside of the tail; some streaking on the flanks; dark line through the eye."
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2025 07:47 by The Spotting Twohees
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276218324 - Comments: "Continuing probable HY male with well defined double white wing-bars, buffy orange breast and face and forehead patch with darker cheek patch. Back with double pale mantle lines. Observed with a large, mixed flock along the maintenance road on lagoon side of road at appx. ( 35°06'41.1"N 120°37'36.2"W). This bird was very active high in the canopy and difficult to pin down before it moved to the center of the grove and could not be refound. The same flock also included a Chestnut-sided Warbler."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:38 by Roger Hammer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276391783 - Comments: "*Rare but regular. Continuing HY m (?) in large flock along the maintenance rd. Possibly saw a/the 2nd individual later on Norswing side but views were too brief. Pale gray warbler with greenish cap and upperparts, white eyering, double wingbars, slightly cocked tail. No pics."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:38 by Ann Stockert
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276369261 - Comments: "*Rare but regular. Continuing HY m (?) in large flock along the maintenance rd. Possibly saw a/the 2nd individual later on Norswing side but views were too brief. Pale gray warbler with greenish cap and upperparts, white eyering, double wingbars, slightly cocked tail. No pics."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:38 by Reef Comer
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276382928 - Comments: "*Rare but regular. Continuing HY m (?) in large flock along the maintenance rd. Possibly saw a/the 2nd individual later on Norswing side but views were too brief. Pale gray warbler with greenish cap and upperparts, white eyering, double wingbars, slightly cocked tail. No pics."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2025 07:47 by The Spotting Twohees
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276218324 - Media: 5 Photos
- Comments: "Bird #1 - Female/immature (= image #1) was light green on head, slightly darker green on back with two bold, greenish/white wing-bars, dark primaries, was entirely white below except for dark outer tail edges and did not show any chestnut on sides or flanks that we could see. Bird #1 was was initially observed on east lagoon trail which was flooded to depths greater than 14 inches (scientifically estimated the hard way by height of author's boots which were only 12 inches tall). Bird #1 was observed at appx: (35°06'33.5"N 120°37'32.6"W) and later suspected to be part of the Blackburnian Warbler flock.
Bird #2 - Likely young male (= images 2 & 3) was similar to Bird #1, but appeared grayer on head with darker back and was also mostly white below with the exception of dark outer tail edges and faint chestnut smudges on sides. Bird #2 observed at appx: (35°06'39.4"N 120°37'35.1"W)."
Blackpoll Warbler (Setophaga striata) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 28, 2025 07:47 by The Spotting Twohees
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276218324 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Likely continuing-breeding female/immature was olive above with yellow eye-arcs bisected by black eye-line, with back streaking, two white wing-bars separated by dark panel and was yellowish on brown-streaked throat and breast, white from belly to undertail with yellow feet and legs."
Prairie Warbler (Setophaga discolor) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:55 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276339757 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "Possible first-year male, as its plumage appeared in between immature and adult. This bird's strikingly bright golden tones and small size got my attention when I was observing a large mixed flock of warblers, vireos, juncos, bushtits, and more.
I then noted thick black streaking on its yellow flanks and knew this was gonna be a cool warbler. The bird was a quick forager, near impossible to photograph as it hopped from branch to branch. So I spent some time noting fieldmarks--it had a broken black collar (not really a collar though the angle of thick black shoulder lines make it look that way from a side view). It had a dark, partially black semicircle forming under the eyes that joined with greyish cheeks, as well as had a thick dark eyeline that bisected thick yellow above and below. The back was green, no hint of rufous that I could note. The wings were olive at the shoulder, and black with pale edges on the primaries and secondaries, which includes yellowy-green wingbars. The crown and nape were also olive green, while the throat was as bright golden as the underside. The undertail coverts were white, as were the outer tail feather edges and undertail. Its bill was pink, and the base connected to a thin band of blackish plumage above, and whitish plumage below, as well as a kind of light-colored plumage directly above the upper mandible.
It vocalized a few times, a thick husky chip for such a tiny dude.
Seen a few times, loosely associating with a Tennessee warbler, which it body-slammed out of the way in a bottlebrush tree while I was taking pics of the Tennessee (this was welcome since my previous pics of the prairie were garbage but ID worthy). Often it was foraging a bit solo. Seen in both deciduous and bottlebrush generally here: 35.26777° N, 120.66020° W
Last seen flying into a deciduous tree full of yummy berries next to a corner house on the northeast portion of park. First record of this species at this hotspot."
Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 29, 2025 07:55 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276339757 - Media: 1 Audio
- Comments: "Immature. Heard its high-pitched squeak--somewhat higher than that of a black-headed. Only briefly saw the bird and can't really offer up many details other than it was an immature grosbeak with coarse streaking across breast, a prominent supercilium and thick pink bill. Its call however gave it away as it was a squeaky gym floor rasp. Even crappy merlin agreed with me. I did some playback to entice the bird. It called back a few times then flew east through the park--couldn't re-find. First record of this species at this hotspot. Recording."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/29/25 5:55 pm From: Kaaren Perry via groups.io <surfbird1...> Subject: [slocobirding] A few sparrows arrivals in Morro Bay
A few of the expected wintering crowned sparrows (Zonotrichia is a genus) have been returning to our yard with the first Golden-crowned arriving yesterday morning, Sept 28. This is the same FOS arrival date, Sept 28 as last year, 2024. How do they do that?? 🤔
A nice surprise today was the arrival of a Clay-colored Sparrow. The last one seen in our yard was in November, 2022. Time to check out all those little brown birds!
Date: 9/29/25 5:41 pm From: susang302 via groups.io <susang302...> Subject: [slocobirding] warbler with gold crown?
Migrants are coming through and winter residents arriving.
This past week I had brief but fairly complete look at a new visitor, just outside my office window at a ground drip.
Overall yellowish body, greyish back and wings, with two white wing bars, and a faded mask across the eyes. As it turned around in the bath, a bright gold crown with no black markings present. checking my guides, no such species. Could it be a Lawrence's (cross)?
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Tufted Puffin (Fratercula cirrhata) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Alexander Yan
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275926025 - Comments: "All black alcid with a massive bill flying by the bow when the rest of the crowd were more concentrated on the sides with tube noses. Had no white underbelly as in horned."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Kevin Zimmer
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275927186 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Petra Clayton
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275927092 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by James Stepkowski
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276153719 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Lori Renee
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276123830 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Yamina Pressler
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276047116 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Kathryn Marshall
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276073478 - Media: 8 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Manx Shearwater (Puffinus puffinus) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 07:40 by Kevin Zimmer
- Boat Trip-Morro Bay to Point Buchon, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9133957&<ll...>,-120.9133957 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275927194 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Small, blackish-and-white shearwater with entirely white vent; white of flanks riding up over the sides of the rump, forming white 'saddlebags' as on a Violet-green Swallow; white of throat and neck side curling up behind the ear-coverts; sharp division between black and white on the face; blacker (less brownish) upperparts than on Black-vented Shearwater; and whiter wing linings than is typical for Black-vented Shearwater. 2 photos."
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (1)
- Reported Sep 28, 2025 09:40 by Luke Jensen
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276183857 - Comments: "Seen on maintenance road near entrance refound by Killian. Hard to see because it loved to be in high backs of willows obscured from most people, no one got a picture. Heard off and on as we spent 2 hours their but we could never get any more looks. Seen around 11:00"
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Sep 28, 2025 08:30 by Nick & Jane
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276117992 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing immature plumaged bird that has been seen for what—almost a week now? First spotted in a pine, then in internal willows ten yards west of bridge, then spotted it working backyard fenceline canopy near parking lot, but maybe twenty yards in (there’s a little path along the fence). Notable fieldmarks: pale grey underside with some chestnut dabs on flanks. Lime-green crown and nape. Lime green back with some dark streaking. Also, some lime wash on vents. Otherwise, pale grey underside, undertail coverts and cheeks. Bold white eyering. Double-white wingbars on pale-edged dark wings. Tail was similar to its pale-edged dark wings. Photos. Seen by multiple birders this morn."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (2)
- Reported Sep 28, 2025 09:40 by Luke Jensen
- Pismo SB--Oceano Campground, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6265268&<ll...>,-120.6265268 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S276183857 - Comments: "Seen in major flock at entrance to maintanace road. hatch year male and hatch year female. Saw and heard at same time in different locations, male being closer to ground and female high up in Eucs calling loud and rabidly. Mostly obscured but steve did get a picture of hatch year male in willows. I think I might have a picture but terrible lighting took it's Tool. Seen around 11:00 AM"
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Black-chinned Hummingbird (Archilochus alexandri) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 12:55 by Leisyka Parrott
- MU Ranch, Carrizo Plain NM--no internal access, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-119.4817506&<ll...>,-119.4817506 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275678067 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Immature type based on brownish edging to mantle & head feathers. Head slightly browner than back with light dingy brownish sides. Tail also seemed to have reduced amount of white compared to adult female. Lacked Rufous of RUHU/ALHU and did not have greenish sides of ANHU. Did not seem white enough below for COHU. Tail tip extended just beyond primaries on perched bird."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Ann Stockert
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275926609 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Alexander Yan
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275926025 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Ben Kolstad
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275922005 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by The Spotting Twohees
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275922113 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Leisyka Parrott
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275922719 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Long-eared Owl
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275924612 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Morro Coast Audubon
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275918287 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Russ Namitz
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275910500 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Marcella Munson
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275922699 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Rick Grijalva
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275921348 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Wilson's Storm-Petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:58 by Nick & Jane
- North Pacific Ocean US (35.2023,-121.1367), San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.136656&<ll...>,-121.136656 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275924623 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Small dark white-rumped storm-petrel with short squarish (not forked) tail. White on rumped wrapped around to undertail coverts and feet extended past tail in flight. Lacked forked tail of Leach’s SP. Photos by some."
Neotropic Cormorant (Nannopterum brasilianum) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 11:55 by Tom Edell
- San Geronimo Ck--Estero Bluffs SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9338218&<ll...>,-120.9338218 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275675232 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "White sitting in my car I spotted a rather slim and long tailed cormorant fly into the eucalyptus tree closest to the creek mouth. I set up my scope and confirmed my initial impression that the bird was a Neotropic Cormorant. Curtis and I walked out to the bluff and then beach for better looks and photos. The relatively small pointed gular patch and lack of yellow in the lores along with the slim build and long tail all pointed to Neotropic Cormorant. Before we left the parking area a Double-crested Cormorant perched in the same tree and was noticeable bigger and shorter tails. (Photos)"
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (2)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 15:45 by Leisyka Parrott
- Tidelands Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8514118&<ll...>,-120.8514118 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275895116 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juveniles. White-edged greater wing coverts, small white, spotting, to wing panel and all dark pill. (35.3576598, -120.8506021). Near the boat Kai Honi II"
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (2)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 15:45 by Russ Namitz
- Tidelands Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8514118&<ll...>,-120.8514118 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275895115 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juveniles. White-edged greater wing coverts, small white spotting to wing panel and all dark bill. (35.3576598, -120.8506021). Near the boat Kai Honi II"
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (3)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 09:25 by Petra Clayton
- Tidelands Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8514118&<ll...>,-120.8514118 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275675056 - Media: 12 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing three juveniles, just as yesterday (9/25/25). Today one was on the on-shore rocks (photos #1 - #4) across from the boat ramp and the two others were perched on different vessels: "Janice R" (photos #5 - #7) and "CF 8668 TA" (photos #8 - #12).
Presumably two of them are the ones we observed at this location in the morning of 9/6/25 and again on 9/7/25, 9/8/25, 9/12/25 and 9/25/25. One juvenile was first present here on 9/4/25 and could have been the same individual reported on 9/3/25 at the Morro Bay SP Marina.
All three have a dark, stout bill with varying amounts of yellow feathers at the base of the lower mandible; small white triangular spots on the covert feathers."
Clay-colored Sparrow (Spizella pallida) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 09:38 by Petra Clayton
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275923069 - Media: 7 Photos
- Comments: "First-ever eBird report of this species at this eBird hotspot.
Foraging on the ground across from the first picnic table before the bridge, coming from the Island Street park entrance.
Brown finely streaked crown; prominent gray nape; broad cream-colored supercilium and lores; complete eye-ring not bisected by an eye-line; small pink bill with a dark tip; cream-colored malar stripe bordered by a thin dark stripe; light gray underparts; brown streaks on upper back; pink legs and feet.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video clip:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54816530336/in/dateposted-public/" title="Clay-colored Sparrow (Spizella pallida), Morro Bay, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54816530336_a9d5741f03_z.jpg" alt="Clay-colored Sparrow (Spizella pallida), Morro Bay, CA" /></a>"
Orchard Oriole (Icterus spurius) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 08:23 by Doug Drynan
- Islay Creek Campground--Montana de Oro SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8838502&<ll...>,-120.8838502 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275907883 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "High up in a pine tree in the first campground loop. small female type oriole. Not much larger than the purple finches it was next to. short pale bill with a slight downward curve. The yellow was quite bright below even in the overcast light. I mostly saw the underside, but had brief views of the back that looked more olive green, and I saw faint wing bars. there appeared to be a slightly dark line through the eye. silent."
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (2)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 10:21 by The Spotting Twohees
- Islay Creek Campground--Montana de Oro SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8838502&<ll...>,-120.8838502 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275814594 - Media: 11 Photos
- Comments: "Foy for me. Appeared to be multiples. Both were seen foraging high in pines around campsites 16-17. Once the sun popped out around noon I returned to this area hoping warblers would be more active, which they were. Took quite a while to ID these birds. Most notable were the triangular grey-brown cheek patches and black-and-grey striped backs. Also, white undertails, yellowy throats and chests, dark streaks on flanks, double-white wingbars, and a black outer-tail swoosh that distinguishes this species when observing from below. Two other birders helped in observations. Photos"
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 16:25 by Russ Namitz
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275905563 - Comments: "Continuing rarity. Downstream of bridge about 30-40 yards. Lime green back and white eyering. Bird was extremely backlit and we did not see the chestnut sides of present."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 16:25 by Leisyka Parrott
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275905564 - Comments: "Continuing rarity. Downstream of bridge about 30-40 yards. Lime green back and white eyering. Bird was extremely backlit and we did not see the chestnut sides of present."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Sep 27, 2025 15:35 by Alexander Yan
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275904732 - Comments: "Continuing in the willows around 35.39916° N, 120.85891° W. Seen with Russ et al. Vocalized briefly near the bridge, then near the dog park area, then resighted around 4:45 inside the willows."
Palm Warbler (Setophaga palmarum) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 10:21 by The Spotting Twohees
- Islay Creek Campground--Montana de Oro SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8838502&<ll...>,-120.8838502 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275814594 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Possibly continuing from yesterday evening when one was found at the creek mouth. In pines at campsites 16 and 17. I first heard this bird chipping, so came to the area and saw a small drab warbler with yellow undertail coverts bobbing its tail. The bird was sometimes flying out of a pine to shrubs, but preferred to forage up in pine. I waved a birder over pointed out the bird. I didnt recognize the birder. I later brought two other birders to the area to observe the warbler. The bird was very brown-streaky on its chest, had a red-brown crown and dark eyeline. Photos"
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
---------------------------------------------
Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Least Bittern (Botaurus exilis) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 15:45 by Pam Cahn
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275666756 - Media: 1 Audio
- Comments: "The bird was heard and recorded. It was also seen briefly. Pam heard it while standing close to the road. We then walked around a bend to get a look into the reeds, using the scope. A small, skulking, bittern type bird appeared close to the water’s edge very briefly and the yellow eye was visible. The yellow brownish wash on the back/side was visible as it disappeared back into the reeds. Recording has screech series call starting 48 seconds in, which matches the sound and spectrogram for LEBI on Peterson Field Guide to Bird Sounds online. Apologies for inability to edit audio prior to LEBI. Located at 35°15'51.5"N 120°41'09.0"W. Unable to relocate it or hear it again."
Least Bittern (Botaurus exilis) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 15:45 by Barbara Webster
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275666755 - Media: 1 Audio
- Comments: "The bird was heard and recorded. It was also seen briefly. Pam heard it while standing close to the road. We then walked around a bend to get a look into the reeds, using the scope. A small, skulking, bittern type bird appeared close to the water’s edge briefly and the yellow eye was visible. The yellow brownish wash on the back/side was visible as it disappeared back into the reeds. Pam will be adding the recording. Here are the coordinates for where the bird was. 35°15'51.5"N 120°41'09.0"W Unable to relocate it or hear it again."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2025 17:55 by logan kahle
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275488803 - Comments: "Continuing rarity. On far (west) shore of lake then flew to roost site around 6:50 on w shore willows. I could see blue bill w black tip, greenish lores, dingy legs w no contrasting yellow feet. Dont know of a way to see this bird close"
Black Vulture (Coragyps atratus) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 10:40 by Reef Comer
- San Simeon SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1235286&<ll...>,-121.1235286 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275661573 - Comments: "Seen circling at a considerable height and distance towards the E end of park, but eventually came a bit closer. Short, broad, pale tipped wings (above and below), as well as very short, square tail and wings held flat unmistakable. Dark gray head apparent even from a distance. Good chance this is the same bird from August, but can’t say for sure. Got distracted by the broad-wing’s and couldn’t refind."
Broad-winged Hawk (Buteo platypterus) (2)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 10:40 by Reef Comer
- San Simeon SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.1235286&<ll...>,-121.1235286 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275661573 - Comments: "Never would have seen these birds if we hadn’t been looking at the vulture, as they were both very high up and drifting steadily south. Small, fairly compact buteos with short tail, straight leading edge on wing, more rounded secondaries, dark-tipped primaries, mostly white underside, and some dark streaking around neck and on breast. Tails on both weakly banded, so likely juvenile birds. Big numbers going through the Bay Area right now, so keep an eye up!"
Bank Swallow (Riparia riparia) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2025 17:55 by logan kahle
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275488803 - Comments: "Rare locally and late. Picked up northbound at around 6:20 over the south end of the lake. Immediately apparent was the brown back and small size relative to adjacent imm tree swallow. It have relatively narrow short wings just reaching tailtip, and very distibctive underpart pattern: bright white underparts and throat punctuated by bold complete thick brown breastband with spur that extended in the middle down the body a little ways. The breastband contrasted sharply with the white throat and the white throat wrapped around the auriculars. I was not able to make out different shades of back color due to lighting. Silent"
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 17:35 by Leisyka Parrott
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275668987 - Comments: "Continuing rarity. Black and white warbler working down the trunk like a nuthatch in the medium-sized bottlebrush trees. (35.2676621, -120.6595423). Disappeared quickly and not refound."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 17:35 by Russ Namitz
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275668986 - Comments: "Continuing rarity. Black and white warbler working down the trunk like a nuthatch in the medium-sized bottlebrush trees. (35.2676621, -120.6595423). Disappeared quickly and not refound."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 25, 2025 13:46 by Barbara Webster
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275481104 - Media: 4 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing. Black and white striped head, streaked back, pale throat, some black spots under tail, working over tree trunks like a nuthatch."
Northern Parula (Setophaga americana) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2025 12:48 by Reef Comer
- Pecho Road Willows, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.85271&<ll...>,-120.85271 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275493743 - Comments: "HY bird briefly seen in large mixed flock in second small clearing. Only viewed from below, but combination of small size, compact body, sharp, bicolored bill, white eye arcs, yellow throat and breast strongly contrasting with white belly and undertail coverts, all distinctive. Tried to refind, but no luck."
Blackburnian Warbler (Setophaga fusca) (2)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 10:21 by Nick & Jane
- Islay Creek Campground--Montana de Oro SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8838502&<ll...>,-120.8838502 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275653430 - Comments: "Foy for me. Appeared to be multiples. Both were seen foraging high in pines around campsites 16-17. Once the sun popped out around noon I returned to this area hoping warblers would be more active, which they were. Took quite a while to ID these birds. Most notable were the triangular grey-brown cheek patches and black-and-grey striped backs. Also, white undertails, yellowy throats and chests, dark streaks on flanks, double-white wingbars, and a black outer-tail swoosh that distinguishes this species when observing from below. Two other birders helped in observations. Photos"
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 09:45 by Petra Clayton
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275635825 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing presumably hatch-year male since 9/23/2025 (Reef Comer).
Lime-green crown and back; gray face; white eye ring; two yellow wing bars; pale underparts; couldn't quite make out any chestnut color on the flanks. - Actively foraging in willows near the bridge."
Palm Warbler (Setophaga palmarum) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 10:21 by Nick & Jane
- Islay Creek Campground--Montana de Oro SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8838502&<ll...>,-120.8838502 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275653430 - Comments: "Possibly continuing from yesterday evening when one was found at the creek mouth. In pines at campsites 16 and 17. I first heard this bird chipping, so came to the area and saw a small drab warbler with yellow undertail coverts bobbing its tail. The bird was sometimes flying out of a pine to shrubs, but preferred to forage up in pine. I waved a birder over pointed out the bird. I didnt recognize the birder. I later brought two other birders to the area to observe the warbler. The bird was very brown-streaky on its chest, had a red-brown crown and dark eyeline. Photos"
Prairie Warbler (Setophaga discolor) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2025 07:46 by logan kahle
- Arroyo del Osos, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-121.290039&<ll...>,-121.290039 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275487865 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "!!! Sick!! Initially got my attention naked eye as a warbler flashing white in the tail and actively tail-pumping. When i liften my bins i was thrilled to see it wasa prairie warbler! It had an ashy gray hood, bold white eye arcs, white wingbars, greenish back, yellow from throat to entacs, blackish streaks on flanks. Photod. Popped up after about 5 minutes then took 15 minutes before i could get photos (would keep popping up for 5 seconds or so then vanishing)"
Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2025 14:54 by logan kahle
- Lila Keiser Park/Morro Creek, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.856743&<ll...>,-120.856743 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275491511 - Comments: "Calling high “eek” notably higher than bhgr. Grosbeak w bold broad streaks across breast and pink bill. Got some dark photos that hopefully can be lightened up to show some of these features"
Rose-breasted Grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus) (1)
- Reported Sep 26, 2025 12:30 by Fritzi Cole
- Los Osos Backyard, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8561584&<ll...>,-120.8561584 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275668741 - Comments: "Eating at bird feeder among white-crowned sparrows and house finches. Initially spent seconds at feeder then stayed longer and appeared more frequently. Returned in evening after initially being at feeder around noon."
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You received this message because you are subscribed to eBird's San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Solitary Sandpiper (Tringa solitaria) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 24, 2025 18:11 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Atascadero Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6667256&<ll...>,-120.6667256 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275330636 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Medium-sized sandpiper brown on breast, head and back with white flecking on back, white rows of spotting on tertials. round head with straight, dark bill about the same length as head (front to nape), bold white eye-ring around dark eye and with white throat, belly and undertail and long, olive-green legs. Observed foraging on mud-flats SW end of lake."
Please note, that three juvenile Yellow-crowned Night Herons were present this morning at 9:00 a.m. at Tidelands Park in Morro Bay.
<a href="https://ebird.org/checklist/S275460180">ebird.org/checklist/S275460180</a> That would make four juvenile Yellow-crowned Night Herons currently in the county."
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (3)
- Reported Sep 25, 2025 09:00 by Petra Clayton
- Tidelands Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8514118&<ll...>,-120.8514118 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275460180 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing two juveniles, plus a third juvenile today, all perched on vessel "CF 2078 KC," two on crab pots on the back of the boat and one standing on the boat rail.
Presumably two of them are the ones we observed at this location in the morning of 9/6/25 and again on 9/7/25, 9/8/25 and 9/12/25. One juvenile was first present here on 9/4/25 and could have been the same individual reported on 9/3/25 at the Morro Bay SP Marina.
All three have a dark, stout bill with yellow feathers at the base of the lower mandible; small white triangular spots on the covert feathers.
Please note, that another juvenile was still present this morning at 10:20 a.m. at San Geronimo Creek.
<a href="https://ebird.org/checklist/S275455920">ebird.org/checklist/S275455920</a> That would make four juvenile Yellow-crowned Night Herons currently in the county."
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (2) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 19, 2025 16:50 by marlin harms
- Tidelands Park, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8514118&<ll...>,-120.8514118 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S274343735 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "When I first arrived I saw 2 Yellow-crowned Night-heron juveniles perched on the fishing boat Rose Lynn, which was docked near the large parking lot. As I started to walk, one of them, then the other flew down from the boat to dock, then across the small amount of water to the rocky shore of boulders just down from the parking lot and below the sidewalk where I was. As I concentrated on one, I lost track of the other. The one I watched did some patient standing, then some side-to-side swaying of head, neck and sometimes body as it seemed to home in on its prey. I tried to get some video (links below) and witnessed the night-heron gradually stretch its neck forward and dart its bill at prey at the edges of these large rocks several times. It caught something quite small that I could not identify; missed on another attempt; caught, but then immediately lost a crab with large pinchers; then finally was successful at catching another crab. The heron briefly tried to orient the crab such that it could get it down its bill without removing any appendages and, while still holding the crab in its bill, flew to the nearest part of the dock where it continued trying to align the crab in its bill. After most of a minute it successfully swallowed the crab. Videos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/marlinharms/54811476588/ https://www.flickr.com/photos/marlinharms/54810327476/"
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2025 08:09 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275442606 - Comments: "Continuing female. She was in three-four different trees in the northeast area of park crawing on tree limbs 35.26811° N, 120.65976° W. Dark spots on white undertail, pale throat and underside. Black streaks on flanks. Double-white wingbars. Black-and-white stripes on head, back and wings. Photo."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Sep 25, 2025 10:52 by Peter Robertshaw
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275441175 - Comments: "Vivid darkish green upperparts, white eye ring, light gray underparts, two prominent white wing bars tinged with yellow. I will add a couple of photos next week. Seen in the dense woodland at the NW corner of the park."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Yellow-crowned Night Heron (Nyctanassa violacea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 23, 2025 17:13 by Tom Edell
- San Geronimo Ck--Estero Bluffs SP, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.9338218&<ll...>,-120.9338218 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275160799 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "juvenile perched in brush on the southeast side of the creek. It showed more small white tips on flight feathers than seen on 19 Sep juvenile. (photos)"
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 23, 2025 10:14 by Kevin Zimmer
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275181118 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing, we’ll documented juvenile, with strikingly pale, whitis irides; uniformly yellow-olive tarsi and toes; bicolored bill, with blackish distal portion and paler, blue-gray to slightly pinkish gray base."
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 21, 2025 12:25 by Petra Clayton
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S274812134 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile at this eBird hotspot since 8/31/25 (Sam Larkin).
Most likely the same individual that had been observed at Morro Creek Mouth from 8/30/25 to 8/31/25. (Last eBird report at Morro Creek mouth: 8/31/25 at 4:35 p.m.)
Viewed from the Prefumo Creek mouth.
Overall white; greenish-yellow legs and feet and a bill that was light at the base and dark on the distal half."
Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 23, 2025 08:36 by Kevin Zimmer
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275179516 - Media: 6 Photos
- Comments: "Early. Distinctive woodpecker with entirely red head, nape, throat and upper breast, except for whitish moustachial stripe, blackish lores, and indistinct black-and-white patch on rear portion of ear coverts. Large white patch in mostly black wings; underparts mostly pale yellowish, but with vague, grayish barring on flanks."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 23, 2025 09:45 by Petra Clayton
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275153195 - Media: 14 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing female/hatch year bird since 9/21/25 (Steve Tillmann). (Most recent prior eBird report of this species at this eBird hotspot: 2/18/2023)
Today first spotted by Jake Hager and then again by Andrew Fleming, as it was quickly moving nuthatch-like up and down trunks and branches, first of the bottle brush, then of the oak on the southeast portion of the park near Casa Diablo, where the paved path crosses the drainage ditch.
Boldly streaked black and white pattern; black upperparts with white streaks; grayish-white face; white eyering; black crown with broad white center stripe; broad white supercilium; creamy-white throat and underparts; a buff wash on the lower flanks and vent; black streaks on the flanks; black spots on the undertail; two white wingbars; sharply pointed bill; black legs with yellow toes.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video, showing the warbler searching for insects in bark crevices and from foliage:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54808838965/in/dateposted-public/" title="Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia), San Luis Obispo, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54808838965_e9f836d1f9_z.jpg" alt="Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia), San Luis Obispo, CA" /></a>"
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 23, 2025 08:36 by Kevin Zimmer
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275179516 - Media: 3 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing HY female, with white throat, mostly whitish face, pale buff flanks diffident streaked with gray. Upper parts streaked black-and-white; wings black with two bold white wingbars and white-edged tertials; crown with white median stripe, black lateral crown stripes, white eyebrows and narrow black line through the eye. Distinctive nuthatch-like creeping behavior. I managed a few poor, record shots, to be uploaded shortly."
Chestnut-sided Warbler (Setophaga pensylvanica) (1)
- Reported Sep 23, 2025 17:30 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Del Mar Park--Morro Bay, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.8586752&<ll...>,-120.8586752 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275166630 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing bird reported minutes earlier by Reef Comer - Stocky-shaped warbler foraging non-stop was light green on back with dark primaries, pair of creamy-greenish/white wing-bars on each wing and black spotting on rump, lime green on upper head with complete white eye-ring, pale bill and gray face and was nearly all white below except for faint chestnut on sides and black outside edging to underside of tail. Possible second bird without discernible chestnut on sides was observed in the same flock foraging in the Eucs on east of park along the pasture fence line."
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eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/23/25 3:16 pm From: eBird alert via groups.io <alert.ebird...> Subject: [slocobirding] [eBird Alert] San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert
*** Species Summary:
- Costa's Hummingbird (1 report)
- Yellow-crowned Night Heron (1 report)
- Little Blue Heron (1 report)
- Ash-throated Flycatcher (1 report)
- Black-and-white Warbler (2 reports)
- American Redstart (4 reports)
- Bay-breasted Warbler (1 report)
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Costa's Hummingbird (Calypte costae) (2)
- Reported Sep 17, 2025 08:35 by Petra Clayton
- O'Donovan Road, Creston, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.5075918&<ll...>,-120.5075918 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S273978977 - Media: 9 Photos
- Comments: "Smaller than nearby Anna's Hummingbirds; white throat with the start of the purple gorget; white postocular stripe.
Upon further study of the images:
1. The reflected gorget color is a bright magenta interspersed slightly with other bright colors, as opposed to the deep almost blueish-purple color of a male Black-chinned.
2. Some of the freshly molted gorget feathers on the upper throat are very bright and do not contrast with molted gorget feathers on the lower throat. In a male Black-chinned some of these molted upper throat feathers would be contrastingly dark.
3. Photo #1 shows some bright magenta feathers molting in on the crown, which is not expected in a Black-chinned.
Click on the image below for a Flickr video, which includes Anna's Hummingbirds:
<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jack-petra-clayton/54795083144/in/dateposted-public/" title="Costa's Hummingbird (Calypte costae), Creston, CA"><img src="https://live.staticflickr.com/31337/54795083144_abe367eb14_z.jpg" alt="Costa's Hummingbird (Calypte costae), Creston, CA" /></a>
Photos #6 - #9: Female:
Small size; green back; white throat and underparts; wingtips extending to the tip of the tail, making the tail appear short; gray cheek patch; white postocular stripe; slightly decurved bill."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Sep 23, 2025 11:02 by Andrew Fleming
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S275119813 - Comments: "Seen with the Claytons and Jason in the trees around where the path crosses the drainage ditch (35.2674354, -120.6598438). Sleek warbler with black and white stripes all over head and back. Mostly white throat and belly. Creeping up and down tree limbs like a nuthatch."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/22/25 6:20 pm From: Kevin Zimmer via groups.io <kjzimmerphd...> Subject: [slocobirding] FOS Golden-crowned Sparrow in Atascadero
I’ve seen several folks commenting on their FOS White-crowned Sparrows in recent days, and, indeed, we had our FOS gambelii White-crowned Sparrow in our yard in Atascadero yesterday (although, we had been out of town for the 4 days prior to yesterday, so it may have arrived earlier). That bird was present throughout the day today. Just minutes ago, I looked out in the backyard, and along with that lone White-crowned Sparrow, was an adult Golden-crowned Sparrow, also our first of the season.
Date: 9/22/25 2:09 pm From: Russell Namitz via groups.io <namitzr...> Subject: Re: [slocobirding] FOS white-crowned sparrow
My first White-crowned Sparrow of the fall season also showed up today at my feeders on the Carrizo Plain NM.
Cheers,
Russ Namitz
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From: <slocobirding...> <slocobirding...> on behalf of Thomas Slater via groups.io <tomslaterphotography...>
Sent: Monday, September 22, 2025 6:49 AM
To: Birding SLOCo <slocobirding...>
Subject: [slocobirding] FOS white-crowned sparrow
Nipomo Mesa 9-22 same day every year for over 8 years. Crazy. Feels like fall.
Finally the house finches will have some competition at my feeders.
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Thank you for subscribing to the <daily> San Luis Obispo County Rare Bird Alert. The report below shows observations of rare birds in San Luis Obispo County. View or unsubscribe to this alert at https://ebird.org/alert/summary?sid=SN36231 NOTE: all sightings are UNCONFIRMED unless indicated.
eBird encourages safe, responsible birding. Some reports may be from private property. Respect access restrictions and follow the rules wherever you bird. For more information, visit the eBird and Merlin Community Guidelines: https://ebird.org/community-guidelines. Stay connected to the global birding community with eBird Updates: https://mailchi.mp/cornell/ebird-updates-sign-up-page.
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 21, 2025 10:40 by Van Pierszalowski
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S274832559 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "Continuing mostly fresh (non-HY) juvenile by Perfumo Creek inlet. First saw it perched in trees on the opposite shore, but quickly flew over and put on quite a show at short distance. Overall, similar to Snowy Egret but with thicker bicolored bill, dull yellow-ish legs"
Little Blue Heron (Egretta caerulea) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 21, 2025 08:05 by Nick & Jane
- Laguna Lake, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6903817&<ll...>,-120.6903817 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S274791864 - Media: 2 Photos
- Comments: "Continuing juvenile. Yellow-green legs, feet and lores. Pale eyes. Dark-tipped bill. Seen from both sides of lake. Often flying to middle of lake to forage for a snack. Photo"
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1)
- Reported Sep 22, 2025 07:50 by Nick & Jane
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S274932989 - Comments: "Continuing immature/female type. Black-and-white stripes on back, wings, head. Streaks on white flanks. Dark spots on white undertail. Double-white wingbars. Some buffy on pale throat. Stumbled onto this bird while gazing at warbler flocks. First spotted in southeast corner of park crawling on limbs, then saw on the north side of park crawling in a tree, then in a bottlebrush tree back on the southside of park near all the bird boxes at Casa Diablo: (35.2674639, -120.6596882). Photos."
Black-and-white Warbler (Mniotilta varia) (1) CONFIRMED
- Reported Sep 21, 2025 16:31 by Pair of Wing-Nuts
- Meadow Park--San Luis Obispo, San Luis Obispo, California
- Map: http://maps.google.com/?ie=UTF8&t=p&z=13&<q...>,-120.6606531&<ll...>,-120.6606531 - Checklist: https://ebird.org/checklist/S274815444 - Media: 1 Photo
- Comments: "All black and white warbler with black and white striped back, black lateral crown stripes, white median crown stripe, bold white supcerilium, white lower eye-arcs, mostly white underneath from throat to lower belly with black streaking on sides and flanks and black spotting on undertail. Observed bark-gleaning high in oak canopy next to bottlebrush canopy at: (35°16'03.7"N 120°39'36.2"W)."
eBird Alerts provide recent reports of regionally or seasonally rare species (Rarities Alerts) or species you have not yet observed (Needs Alerts) in your region of interest; both Accepted and Unreviewed observations are included. Some reports may be from private property or inaccessible to the general public. It is the responsibility of every eBirder to be aware of and respectful of access restrictions. For more information, see our Terms of Use: https://www.birds.cornell.edu/home/terms-of-use/
Date: 9/22/25 6:50 am From: Thomas Slater via groups.io <tomslaterphotography...> Subject: [slocobirding] FOS white-crowned sparrow
Nipomo Mesa 9-22 same day every year for over 8 years. Crazy. Feels like fall.
Finally the house finches will have some competition at my feeders.
Bird on,Tom Slater
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