This is probably commonsense advice for seasoned birders, but it’s good to keep an eye on rare bird alerts (RBA) from neighboring states, both if you’re looking for a weekend trip and to know what might show up in your state. There are several forums, such as social media groups, e-mail lists or websites. On social media, search groups for “RBA” and you might find one for your state of interest. Otherwise, some states have separate e-mail lists for the RBA, or subject lines that indicate a rarity (e.g. “ALERT”). Every state seems to have a different M.O., so eventually you’re likely to find which service gets you the best and fastest information.
As mentioned in last month’s post, some bird feeders have won the “rarity lottery” this year. What will be the next feeder bird to show up? Maybe tomorrow’s snowstorm will bring some birders a little luck. Feeder birds that have been spotted this month in Wisconsin’s history:
- black-throated sparrow
- Scott’s oriole