Desert follow-up

I can add a bit to Nancy Christensen’s report from the Anza-Borrego desert area.  Friday evening and Sat. morning I worked the area surrounding the ABDSP Visitors Center, and recorded 4 sparrow species other than the ubiquitous White-crowned:  Brewer’s (about 6), Lincoln (3), Black-throated (a few), and Chipping (2). Also 5 species of warblers:  Wilson’s (1), Nashville (1), Orange-crowned (many), Black-thtroated gray (many), plus a few remaining Yellow-rumps.  At least 6 Ash-throated Flycatchers were observed, and one Western Kingbird.  In addition, most of the other expected desert residents were present:  Verdin, Black-tailed Gnatcatcher, Costa’s hummer, Cactus Wren, etc. 

Most spectacular, though, was the Painted Lady migration – in the Visitors Center gardens this morning there were easily a hundred within any 50-foot radius circle around you, often 6-8 on just one small flowering plant.  All headed west.  The photographers were having a field day.   

Phil Pryde