Just back from two weeks in Texas, heard a scolding RED-EYED VIREO at our
place in n. Lake Stevens Sunday morning, first of the season and a bit ahead
of last year's first arrival at Rockport May 20.

I spent two weeks in Texas April 28-May 12, on business in Houston but had
the May 5-6 weekend and Saturday May 12, and did a whirlwind tour of the
south. I did not have time to do justice to Santa Ana, Bentsen and Falcon
Dam especially, which reulted in lost of misses; on the other hand, the trip
total was 211 species, with many, many highlights--great warbler passage at
Sabal Palm, stunning shorebird numbers and 18 species at the 281 ponds south
of McAllen, several rarities such as Eur. Collared Dove near Corpus Christi
and Clay-colored Robin at Santa Ana....And then of course the joy of finding
many of the advertised local specialties, concluding with great looks at
Black-capped Vireo at the Shin Oak Observation Overlook northwest of Austin.

Beyond 28 "lifers" I also had a possible Tropical Parula and Blue Bunting,
both slightly north of known ranges. I got good looks at neither but heard
vocalizations, including songs, really well. Does any one out there have
any advice on who to e-mail or tweeters-type chat line to tap into for
expert local opinions? I have no previous experience with either species
and need to confer with someone who does. Any info would be appreciated.

Scott Atkinson
Lake Stevens
email: scottratkinson at hotmail.com


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