# IMAGE_INDEX

COMMENT:
Adult white and adult blue phase Snow Geese.


COPYRIGHT:
James E. Kuhn, Sunscape Publications, El Centro, CA


COMMENT:
Adult in breeding plumage, at nest, with eggs.


COMMENT:
Cryptic coloration example: do you see all 3 owls?


COMMENT:
Snow Geese, both color phases, in flight.


# SONG_INDEX

COPYRIGHT:
Borror Laboratory of Bioacoustics, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, all rights reserved.


COPYRIGHT:
Robert Taylor, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada


# SPECIES

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Fresh-water ponds, lakes, and marshes, with emergent vegetation and little to no current (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A local resident in southern Texas and southern Baja California southward through Mexico and into South America to central Argentina; casual north of this range into southeast California, southern Arizona, and central or eastern Texas.

Field Marks: Short neck, small size, golden eyes, dark gray face and foreneck.

Nest Habits: Nests over shallow water, on floating platform of vegetation.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 4-6; 34 mm.; bluish-white or pale green, later stained buffy-brown during incubation.

Incubation: Approximately 21 days, by both sexes; young, which can swim soon after hatching, are carried on the parents' back for several days.


SECRETS:
This grebe's presence in a densely vegetated wetland during the breeding season is often revealed by it's loud, boisterous, cuckoo-like song.  Usually escapes danger by diving and swimming away rather than flying.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Encountered on almost any size body of water (i.e., lakes, ponds, streams, or marshes) and also in a variety of habitats ranging from dense emergent vegetation to open water.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central and northeastern British Columbia and south-central Mackenzie east across northern Manitoba and central Ontario to southern Quebec, Maine, and Nova Scotia; and southward into Middle and South America.  Winter distribution in North America occurs throughout most of its breeding range, southward from southern British Columbia, the central United States, Lakes Erie and Ontario, and New York (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A brownish grebe.  In breeding season, has black ring around pale, chicken-like bill; and a black chin and throat.  Ring around bill absent in winter.

Nest Habits: Nests over water on floating platform of vegetation, which is usually attached to reeds or other emergent vegetation.

Eggs: 3-10, usually 5-7; 43 mm.; bluish- or greenish-white in color, later stained with brown during incubation.

Incubation: Approximately 23 days, mostly by female; young are carried on the parents' back.


SECRETS:
In many states, this species is an uncommon or rare migrant; look for it at this time on medium-sized or large lakes, where it should be compared with Western Grebe (which is larger) and Black-necked Grebe (which is smaller).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on lakes, ponds, rivers, and marshes during the breeding season and in migration; and along seacoasts, bays, and estuaries (and occasionally inland lakes) during the winter.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from western and central Alaska and central Yukon east across northwestern and southern MacKenzie, northwestern Saskatchewan, and central Manitoba to western and central Ontario; and south to the northern U.S. (from central Washington and southwestern Oregon east to the Great Lakes region); considered to be a rare breeder in the northeastern U.S., and in southern Ontario and southern Quebec.  Wintering range primarily limited to both coasts (from Alaska south to California, and from Newfoundland south to South Carolina); casual inland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: reddish neck, large white cheek patch, and dark cap are diagnostic in the breeding season.  In winter, note size (larger than Black-necked Grebe, smaller than Western Grebe) and crescent-shaped white patch on side of face.

Nest Habits: Nests over shallow water, on floating platform of vegetation.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 4-5; 54 mm.; bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Approximately 22-23 days, by both sexes; young are able to fly after about 70 days.


SECRETS:
Horned Grebes are most likely to be confused with Black-necked Grebes in the winter (note the gray neck and cheek of the Black-necked Grebe).  In the spring, when birds are molting, identification may be more difficult.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on lakes, ponds, and marshes during the breeding season or in migration; and along seacoasts, bays, and estuaries (also uncommon on inland freshwater lakes) during the winter.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central Alaska and northern Yukon east across northwestern and southern Mackenzie and southern Keewatin to northern Manitoba; and south to eastern Washington, south-central Oregon, northeastern Idaho, northern Montana, northwestern Wyoming, northern South Dakota, the Great Lakes region, northwestern Ontario, and southeastern Quebec.  Wintering range primarily limited to both coasts (from Alaska south to northern Baja California, and from Nova Scotia through Florida and west to Texas) (A.O.U. 1998); also uncommonly on inland lakes and rivers, where sizable concentrations may occasionally be found.

Field Marks: Diagnostic marks during the breeding season include the golden ear tufts and reddish neck; in winter, note the white cheek patch (compare with Black-necked Grebe).

Nest Habits: Nests over shallow water, on floating platform of vegetation.

Eggs: 3-7; usually 4-7; 44 mm; bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Approximately 22-25 days, by both sexes; young are able to fly after about 45-60 days.


SECRETS:
Black-necked Grebes are most likely to be confused with Horned Grebes in the winter (note the white neck and cheek of the Horned Grebe).  In the spring, when birds are molting, identification may be more difficult.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along lakes, ponds, rivers, and marshes; in winter also along seacoasts, bays, and estuaries.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central interior and northeastern British Columbia and southern Yukon east across northwestern and central Alberta and southern Manitoba to western Minnesota; and south to northern Baja California, central and southeastern Arizona (and south into Mexico), and south-central Texas.  Generally winters from Mexico and Central America north to southern British Columbia, northern Nevada, northern Utah, Montana, and Kansas; more uncommon or rare in the eastern U.S. (i.e., from Kansas east to Maryland, and south to the Gulf coast) during the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Diagnostic marks during the breeding season include the golden ear tufts and black neck; in winter, note the gray neck and gray cheek bordered by white auricular patch and white throat (compare with Horned Grebe).

Nest Habits: Nests over shallow water, on floating platform of vegetation.

Eggs: 1-6, usually 3-5; 43 mm.; bluish- or greenish-white in color.

Incubation: Approximately 20-22 days, by both sexes; young are able to fly after about 21 days.


SECRETS:
Distinguish this species from Clark's Grebe by the black crown which extends down on side of face to encompass the red eye and the greenish-yellow bill.  This and the Clark's Grebe were formerly considered color morphs of a single species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on lakes, marshes, and bays, and also along seacoasts in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from extreme southern British Columbia and central Alberta east to southern Manitoba; and south to southern California, Arizona (it is also a resident breeder in parts of Mexico), Colorado, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.  Winters along the Pacific coast (southeastern Alaska south to southern Baja California and Mexico), and inland to southern Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, and western Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large grebe, with long, swan-like neck, and contrasting black and white colors.

Nest Habits: Nests over shallow water, on floating platform of vegetation.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 3-4; 58 mm.; bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Approximately 23 days, by both sexes; young are able to fly after about 63-77 days.


SECRETS:
Told from Western Grebe by white cheek extending above red eye & the orange-yellow bill (combination of black feathers & orange bill color suggestive of Clark's chocolate bar wrapper). Formerly considered a color morph of Western Grebe.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on lakes, marshes, and bays, and also along seacoasts in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-central British Columbia east to southwestern Manitoba, extending southward to California, Arizona, New Mexico (it is also a resident breeder in parts of Mexico) and Colorado.  Winter range extends from California to Colorado, south to southern Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large grebe, with long, swan-like neck, and contrasting black and white colors.

Nest Habits: Nests over shallow water, on floating platform of vegetation.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 3-4; 58 mm.; bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Approximately 23 days, by both sexes; young are able to fly after about 63-77 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Circumpolar breeding range includes islands in the South Atlantic and South Pacific Oceans; accidental in California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Royal Albatross, which lacks pronounced brown or black colorations in the crown, breast, back, or tail.

Nest Habits: Nest consists of a mound of dirt or mud which is lined with feathers or grass.

Eggs: 1, white in color.

Incubation: Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 11 months.  Both adults incubate the egg and feed the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Occurs in the North Pacific Ocean where active breeding is now primarily limited to the Japanese island of Torishima.  Also occurs during the breeding season in the northwestern Hawaiian Islands.  Ranges at sea to the western coast of North America, from Alaska to Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adult plumage is mostly white, with a pink bill, pink legs, and yellowish cast on crown, nape, and neck.

Nest Habits: Nest consists of a hollow scrape in the ground.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 8 or more months.  Both adults incubate the egg and feed the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes sites in the northwestern Hawaiian Islands.  Ranges at sea to the western coast of North America, from Alaska to Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark coloration over most of body, with white around base of bill.

Nest Habits: Nest consists of a hollow scrape in the ground.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 8 or more months.  Both adults incubate the egg and feed the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Ranges throughout the north Pacific Ocean; breeds on the northwestern Hawaiian Islands.  In North America, may be encountered from the Gulf of Alaska south to Baja California and the Gulf of California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: dark back and upper wing surface (except for white streaks in primary feathers); under side of wing is white with black margins.

Nest Habits: Nest consists of a hollow scrape in the ground.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 7 months.  Both adults incubate the egg and feed the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Circumpolar in Southern Oceans; sight reports in North America exist for the Atlantic coast.  Breeds on islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Pale, yellowish bill and broad, dark leading edge to the underside of the wing.

Nest Habits: Nest consists of a mound of dirt or mud which is lined with feathers or grass.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: Both adults incubate the egg and feed the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds on islands near Australia and New Zealand and ranges at sea in the Southern Oceans; in North America, accidental off the coast of Washington (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Underwing mostly white with narrow, black border.  Black indentation also present at the base of the leading edge of the wing.

Nest Habits: Nest consists of a mound of dirt or mud which is lined with feathers or grass.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: Both adults incubate the egg and feed the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds on islands and ranges at sea in the South Atlantic and southern Indian Oceans.  Considered to be casual or accidental in a variety of locations in eastern North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Underwing mostly white with narrow, black border.  Dark bill (yellow ridge on top of bill visible only at close range).

Nest Habits: Nest consists of a mound of dirt or mud which is lined with feathers or grass.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 7 or 8 months.  Both adults incubate the egg and feed the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Circumpolar in Southern Oceans; accidental in North America off the California coast (A.O.U. 1998).  Breeds on islands.

Field Marks: Light gray back contrasts with dark brown head and wings.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 7 or 8 months.  Both adults incubate the egg and feed the young.


SECRETS:
There are two color phases (light and dark), with some birds showing intermediate color patterns.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on sea cliffs or rocky islands; found in pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Ranges at sea in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.  Breeds in the Aleutians, the Gulf of Alaska, islands in the Canadian Arctic, on Labrador, and in Newfoundland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Thick neck, yellow bill with tubular nostrils.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, usually located on cliffs.  

Eggs: 1; 74 mm; dull white, occasionally stained with red spots.

Incubation: Approximately 50-60 days, by both sexes; young are able to fly after about 50 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests in burrows or rock crevices on small islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeding range primarily includes the New Zealand region; ranges at sea in waters between South America and New Zealand, north to the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note color contrast between gray belly and white throat and breast; also the black zig-zag bar on the leading edge of the underside of the wing.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1; white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 4 or 5 months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests in burrows on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeding range primarily limited to islands off the coast of New Zealand; ranges at sea in waters between South America and New Zealand, north to the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Underside of wings almost entirely white; similar to Stejneger's Petrel but lacks that species' black crown.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 5 months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeding range primarily limited to islands off the coast of Chile; ranges at sea into Northern Pacific Ocean waters, extending almost to Japan.  Accidental in California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Underside of wings almost entirely white; note dark crown (compare with Cook's Petrel).

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 5 months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Ranges at sea in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans; breeds on islands in these waters.  Considered casual or accidental on the east coast of North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Three color morphs; in all phases, note white flash on underside of wing at base of primary feathers which extends across the secondaries as well.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Eggs are laid sometime between January and March (Harrison 1985).


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeds in the south-central Pacific Ocean; ranges at sea to the northern Pacific Ocean, including locations off the coast of California and Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note entirely dark underwings.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: As in other members of this family, both parents likely incubate the egg and care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeds on Hispaniola in the West Indies; ranges at sea in the western Atlantic Ocean from northeastern Brazil to North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, and Maine.  Considered accidental elsewhere along the east coast (A.O.U. 1998; Harrison 1985).

Field Marks: Note contrast of dark cap and white forehead, rump patch, and neck collar.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: As in other members of this family, both parents likely incubate the egg and care for the young.  Breeding biology little known (Harrison 1985).


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Found in the North and South Atlantic Ocean; breeds on islands in the eastern North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.

Field Marks: Bill is yellow.  Compare with Great Shearwater: in Cory's, note the lack of a distinct white rump patch; Cory's also has a gray cap which provides less contrast with the white throat.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 4 months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Western Pacific Ocean, extending south to New Guinea and Australia.  Considered to be a casual visitor to California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note pronounced whitish coloration on the forehead, lores, and crown.  Dark streaks on nape of neck.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 5 or more months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeds in the tropics, on islands in the Pacific and Indian Oceans.  Ranges at sea in the Pacific and Indian Oceans, including locations off the coast of southern Baja California south to central America; considered to be a casual visitor to California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Two distinct color morphs.  Dark morph is largely blackish brown all over; in pale morph, note the mostly white coloration on the belly, breast, and underwing.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeds on islands near New Zealand; ranges at sea across the Pacific Ocean to areas off the coast of North and South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note the frost-gray coloration of upper back, and how it contrasts with whitish secondaries and outer greater coverts; inner greater coverts consists of a dark bar that extends to the wrist in the wing.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 5 or more months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeds on islands near Australia and New Zealand, and in the Indian Ocean.  Ranges at sea in the North Pacific Ocean to areas off the coast of Japan and the Aleutian Islands; sometimes further south to California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Entire head and body are dark brownish-black in color, except for underside of primaries, which are slightly paler.  Note diagnostic pale color to base of bill.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 5 or more months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Found primarily over the continental shelf, from southern Alaska south to South America; breeds on islands near Chile (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Gray-brown above, white on belly and breast; mottled underwings.  Also note pinkish bill with a dark tip.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 4 months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeds on islands in the South Atlantic Ocean; ranges at sea throughout both the North and South Atlantic Ocean.  Considered to be accidental in California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark crown contrasts with whitish nape and white throat; white rump patch.  Compare with Cory's Shearwater.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 55 days; young are able to fly after about 84 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeds on islands off of Australia, New Zealand, and South America; ranges widely at sea in both the northern and southern regions of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Field Marks: Dark above; underneath, note the silver-white coverts at the base of the primary and secondary feathers.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 56 days; young are able to fly after about 100 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeds on islands off the coast of Australia.  Ranges at sea in the central and northern Pacific Ocean; along the west coast of North America, may be encountered as far north as the Bering and Chukchi Seas, and south to Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Sooty Shearwater, from which it differs by having a slightly shorter bill and grayer underwings.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 5 months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; occasionally in inland mountainous areas.  Found in pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in the North Atlantic Ocean, on islands off of Newfoundland, Iceland, Massachusetts, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and France.  Ranges at sea throughout much of the North Atlantic Ocean (including areas off the east coast of North America, from Newfoundland south to Florida), and along the east coast of South America, south to Argentina.  Considered to be casual or accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A distinctly black-and-white shearwater; note lack of white rump patch on dark upperparts and the extensively white underwing coverts; undertail coverts also mostly white.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 51 days; young are able to fly after about 70-75 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeds on islands near Baja California; ranges at sea along the Pacific Coast, from Mexico to California, and occasionally north to British Columbia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark above.  Underwing color is off-white, bordered with dark gray; note also the dark axillaries.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 4 months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Widespread, discontinuous range in tropical waters.  Ranges at sea in waters of the Western Atlantic Ocean, the West Indies, the Gulf of Mexico, the Indian Ocean, the eastern Pacific Ocean (along the coast of Mexico and northern South America), and in New Guinea and northern Australia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Little Shearwater.  Note this species' dark undertail coverts, and greater amount of brown on head.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 51 days; young are able to fly after about 72 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeding range includes islands in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, the southern Indian Ocean, and near Australia and New Zealand; ranges at sea throughout much of the southern oceans (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Audubon's Shearwater.  Note this species' lesser amount of brown on head and usually white undertail coverts.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 52-58 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands and along coastal areas; found in pelagic waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds on islands and coastal areas off southern South America, the Antarctic Peninsula, and some subantarctic islands (A.O.U. 1998).  Ranges widely at sea throughout the middle Pacific Ocean, to Australia and New Zealand, the North Atlantic Ocean, and the Indian Ocean.

Field Marks: Small size, white rump patch, unnotched tail.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 4 months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeds on islands in the South Atlantic Ocean and on islands off the coasts of Australia, New Zealand, and Africa.  Ranges at sea in nearby waters, extending to the tropical Pacific Ocean and into the Indian Ocean.  Considered to be a casual visitor to the east coast of North America, from Massachusetts south to North Carolina (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Back and upper wings brownish-gray, white underparts, white face with black mask through eye.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white, with circle of dark dots around the larger end.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 55 days; young are able to fly after about 52-67 days.


SECRETS:
This is the smallest of the Atlantic storm-petrels.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeds on islands in the eastern North Atlantic Ocean and in the Mediterranean Sea.  Ranges at sea in nearby waters; also in the Black Sea and the Indian Ocean.  Considered to be accidental in Nova Scotia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark overall, with white rump patch and distinctive white underwing stripe; upper surface of wing has a less obvious white diagonal bar.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 3 months.


SECRETS:
This is the smallest of the Pacific Ocean storm-petrels.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on small islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeds on small islands near Baja California; ranges at sea in nearby coastal waters, ranging from California to northern South America.

Field Marks: Small size, dark underwing coverts; wedge-shaped tail.  Compare with Ashy Storm-Petrel.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.


SECRETS:
This species has the largest white rump patch of any of the storm-petrels.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeds in the Pacific Ocean on the Galapagos Islands and on islands off the coast of Peru; ranges at sea in coastal waters north to southern Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large, triangular, white rump patch is diagnostic.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Widely distributed in the tropical regions of the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, breeding on the Galapagos Islands and islands in the Atlantic Ocean and off the coast of Japan; ranges at sea in nearby waters. It is an uncommon visitor to the Atlantic coast, from Massachusetts south to Florida; considered to be casual or accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Wilson's Storm-Petrel, which has more extensive white on undertail coverts and a squarish or slightly rounded tail.  The Band-rumped Storm-Petrel's tail may sometimes appear slightly forked.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 4 months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Breeds on islands in the North Atlantic (including islands from southern Labrador south to Massachusetts) and North Pacific (including islands from the Aleutians south to Baja California) Oceans; ranges throughout both oceans south to tropical waters and southern Africa (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note the forked tail and, at close range, gray line down the center of the white rump; compare with Wilson's Storm-Petrel.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 41-42 days; young are able to fly after about 63-70 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Tropical coastal waters of the Pacific Ocean, from California south to northern South America; breeds on islands off southern California and Baja California.

Field Marks: All dark in color with noticeable pale wing bar on upper wing; note large size and long, forked tail.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 4 months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Coastal waters of the Pacific Ocean, ranging from California south to Baja California; breeding sites include the Farallon Islands and some of the Channel Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Black Storm-Petrel; note the smaller size, proportionately shorter wings, and paler underwing coverts.  

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Coastal waters of the northern Pacific Ocean, ranging from Japan north to the Aleutian Islands and the Bering Sea, and south to California.

Field Marks: Primarily pale gray in color, with dark wing linings; note also dark eye mask which extends to ear coverts.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1, white with dark spots on large end.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Primarily found in tropical waters where it breeds in the eastern Pacific Ocean, the Caribbean region, in the eastern Atlantic Ocean, and in the northern Indian Ocean.

Field Marks: Long tail, bright red bill, black primaries, and black-and-white barring on back and wings; in immature plumages, note the black collar and the dark tip to the tail.

Nest Habits: Nests in cliff-side holes or cavities.

Eggs: 1, off-white or reddish-brown in color; with spots.

Incubation: Incubation, by both sexes, lasts about 45 days; young leave the nest after 3-4 months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Primarily found in tropical waters, where it breeds on islands in the Australian region east to the Hawaiian Islands; and on islands in the Indian Ocean.  Ranges at sea from Japan east to the California coast and south to the coast of Chile (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Mostly white in color, but note the red tail streamers in adult.  Wings white with black streaks in primaries.  Compare immature with immature Red-billed Tropicbird.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, usually on the ledge of a cliff.

Eggs: 1, yellowish or reddish in color.

Incubation: Incubation lasts about 45 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Primarily found in tropical waters, where it breeds on islands in the middle and western Pacific Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, and the Indian Ocean.  Birds range further at sea to locations such as: the eastern coast of North America, Japan, New Zealand, and South Africa in the Indian Ocean (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Long white tail with black streak; yellow or orange bill; white wings with black primaries and large, diagonal black bar across tertials and secondary coverts of upperwing.  Compare immature with immature Red-billed Tropicbird.

Nest Habits: Nests on bare rock or soil; usually on cliffs, occasionally in trees (A.O.U. 1998).

Eggs: 1, pink.

Incubation: Incubation lasts up to about 41 days; young are capable of flight about 62 days after hatching.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in coastal tropical waters.

Distribution: Coastal tropical waters of North and South America and western Africa.  Ranges inland, usually after severe storms.

Field Marks: Long, deeply forked tail, dark coloration (white belly in female), and reddish-orange inflatable throat pouch of male are distinctive traits of this species.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies; nest consists of a shallow collection of woody twigs or grasses that are placed in a tree, shrub, or on the ground.

Eggs: 1, although in rare instances 2 may be laid; 68 mm; white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation lasts about 50 days, and young are able to fly about 150-200 days later.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Primarily found in tropical waters, where it breeds on the Hawaiian Islands, on islands off Costa Rica, and on islands in the South China Sea to northeastern Australia (Pacific Ocean); also breeds in the Atlantic Ocean off Brazil and in the Indian Ocean (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In adult male, reddish brown legs and noticeable whitish-brown bar across wing coverts may distinguish this species from Magnificent Frigatebird, but in many cases adult males of both species may be impossible in the field (Harrison 1985).  Adult females have white or gray chin and throat and axillaries are completely dark.  Beware the many plumage variations, depending on the age and sex of the individual.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: Both sexes care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Primarily found in tropical waters, where it breeds on islands in the middle and western Pacific Ocean, on islands off the coast of Brazil in the Atlantic Ocean, and in the western Indian Ocean.  Considered to be accidental in Maine (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adult male all black except for white flank patch and white stripe on axillaries.  White on axillaries also present in adult female, which also has a black chin and throat (separates it from Great Frigatebird).  Beware the many plumage variations, depending on the age and sex of the individual.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.

Eggs: 1.

Incubation: Both sexes care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters, usually over continental shelf (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from eastern North America (e.g., islands in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, off Quebec, and in Labrador and Newfoundland) to Europe (e.g., islands around Iceland, the British Isles, northern France, and Norway.  Ranges at sea to nearby areas in the northern Atlantic Ocean, extending south to Florida and west (along the Gulf coast) to Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adult plumage is all white with golden cast to head and nape and black wing tips.  Immature plumage varies over a four-year period; compare especially with the smaller Brown Booby.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies; nests on the ground; nest consists of a stack of seaweed and grass.

Eggs: 1; 78 mm.; light bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts 42-44 days and young fledge when they are about 84-97 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in coastal waters.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from the eastern Pacific coastal waters of the Gulf of California south to Northern South America near Peru.  Some individuals may casually range as far north along the Pacific coast as San Francisco; considered to be accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Bright blue feet and white patch on lower nape/upper back are distinctive field marks.  Head is pale brown in color, with white streaks.  Compare immature plumages with immature Brown and Masked Boobies.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, in loose colonies.

Eggs: 2-3; pale blue-green in color.

Incubation: Incubation, by both sexes, usually lasts about 41 days; young are capable of flight when about 102 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Primarily found in tropical waters of the Pacific, Indian, and western Atlantic Oceans.

Field Marks: Note all white head and black on tail and secondary feathers (compare with Northern Gannet).  Compare immature plumages with immature Brown and Blue-footed Boobies.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground (sometimes in trees), in loose colonies.

Eggs: 1, sometimes 2; white.

Incubation: Incubation, by both sexes, usually lasts about 43 days; young are capable of flight when about 115 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Primarily found in tropical waters of the Pacific, Indian, and western Atlantic Oceans.

Field Marks: Two color phases: the dark phase is all brown with a white tail, while the light phase is white with black primary and secondary feathers (compare with Northern Gannet).  Both color phases have bright red feet.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests in trees, where it builds a loose platform of sticks to serve as a nest.

Eggs: 1; light blue-green in color with a chalky coating.

Incubation: Incubation lasts about 42-46 days; young first fly when they are about 91-112 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on islands; found in pelagic waters.

Distribution: Primarily found in the tropical waters of the middle and western Pacific Ocean, along the eastern Pacific coast from the Gulf of California south to northern South America, the Caribbean Sea, and the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. 

Field Marks: Yellowish feet; dark brown body color with white belly, flanks, and wing linings; but note the brewsteri subspecies in the eastern Pacific, which has a pale-gray-whitish head color.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies; nests on the ground.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; pale blue or green in color with a chalky coating.

Incubation: Incubation, by both sexes, usually lasts about 40-43 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 105 days old.


SECRETS:
Compare with Pelagic Cormorant, which is smaller and more slender than the Brandt's Cormorant.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Coastal waters.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeast Alaska to the Gulf of California.  Ranges at sea to nearby coastal waters.

Field Marks: Large size, overall dark coloration; note brown-buffy feathers at base of throat pouch.  In breeding plumage, thin white plumes appear on head and neck and throat pouch becomes blue.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies; nests on the ground, usually in rocky areas.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4; 62 mm.; pale blue or white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.


SECRETS:
Formerly known as Olivaceous Cormorant.  Note the smaller size, more slim-bodied appearance, smaller throat pouch, and longer tail when compared with the Double-crested Cormorant.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in freshwater rivers, lakes, and ponds; also along coastal waters.

Distribution: A resident of South and Central America; range extends through Mexico into the United States where it can be found in southwestern New Mexico, Texas, and southwestern Louisiana (A.O.U. 1998); vagrants have been found in several of the other lower 48 states.

Field Marks: Small size; brown or dull yellow throat pouch is bordered by a pale white mask that becomes pure white in the breeding season.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, where it builds its nest of sticks and grasses in trees, shrubs, or on the ground.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 4; 54 mm.; bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Incubation period not known; both sexes care for the young.


SECRETS:
The only North American cormorant to be expected at inland locations.  In breeding plumage, tufts on side of head appear just behind eye.  In flight, kink in neck separates it from Brandt's Cormorant.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Freshwater lakes, rivers, and swamps; also along seacoasts.

Distribution: Breeding range includes the Bering Sea, the Aleutian Islands, and southern Alaska; it also extends from southern British Columbia and northern Alberta east across northwestern and central Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, southern James Bay, and the north shore of the Gulf of St. Lawrence to Newfoundland; and south (often in isolated colonies) to Baja California, south-central Arizona (and south into Mexico), southern New Mexico, west-central and southern Texas, the Gulf coast, and Florida.  Generally winters from Mexico, Baja California, Texas, the Gulf states, and Florida north, along the Pacific coast, to east-central Washington; further east, winter range extends north to Oklahoma, the southern Great Lakes region, Lake Ontario, and New England (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large, orange throat pouch is diagnostic.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, where it builds its nest of twigs and grasses or weeds on a rocky surface or in a tree.

Eggs: 2-9, usually 3-4; 61 mm.; pale blue or bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 25-29 days; young fledge when they are about 35-42 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Coastal waters; in the Old World, also on inland rivers and lakes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Discontinuous breeding distribution extends from northwest Europe through Asia and Africa to Australia and New Zealand.  In North America, it is found from the Gulf of St. Lawrence in Quebec and southwestern Newfoundland south to Nova Scotia and Maine; in the winter, may occur as far south as South Carolina, occasionally further (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large size; small, yellow throat pouch is bordered at base by broad strip of white feathers.  In breeding plumage, a white flank patch also appears.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, where it builds its nest of sticks and grasses on the ground.

Eggs: 1-6, usually 4-5; 65 mm.; blue-green in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 29-31 days; young are capable of flight when 50 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Coastal waters.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from islands off Japan north to the Aleutian Islands and the southern Bering Sea eastward to southeast Alaska.

Field Marks: Body plumage mostly black with a purplish or greenish gloss; in breeding plumage, white plumes appear on side of neck and a white flank patch also appears.  Compare with Pelagic Cormorant: note the Red-faced's larger head, brighter red facial skin (which extends across the forehead), and bluish base to the bill (visible only at close range).

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, where it builds its nest of grasses and seaweeds on ledges of steep cliffs.

Eggs: 3-4; 60 mm.; bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Incubation and fledging periods are not verified, but are thought to last about 21 and 60 days, respectively.


SECRETS:
Compare with Brandt's Cormorant, which is larger and not as slender as the Pelagic Cormorant.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Coastal waters.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from islands off Japan north to the Aleutian Islands and the Bering Sea; and from there southeastward along the west coast of North America to Baja California.

Field Marks: Body plumage mostly black with a greenish gloss.  In breeding plumage, white plumes appear on side of neck and a white flank patch also appears.  Compare with Red-faced Cormorant: note the Pelagic's smaller head size, less extensive red facial skin, and lack of bluish base to the bill.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, where it builds its nest of sticks, seaweeds, and grasses on rocky cliffs.

Eggs: 3-5, occasionally as many as 7; 60 mm.; bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs; incubation lasts approximately 22-31 days.  Young fledge about three months after hatching.


SECRETS:
Bill is pointed, not hooked as in cormorants.  In flight, when soaring, the Anhinga resembles a giant cross.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Lakes, slow-moving streams, and swamps; in fresh water.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from South America, Central America, Mexico, central and eastern Texas, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida north to southeastern Oklahoma, southern and eastern Arkansas, western Tennessee, north-central Mississippi, southern Alabama, southern Georgia, and coastal North Carolina.  During the winter, Anhingas are found from central South Carolina, southern Georgia, Florida, and the Gulf coast south throughout the remainder of the breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall dark body plumage with greenish gloss and white spots or streaks on the wings and upper back.

Nest Habits: Breeds in small groups, usually in association with other herons and egrets.  Nest of sticks or dead leaves is typically placed in a small tree.

Eggs: 1-5, usually 4; 53 mm.; pale blue-green or blue-white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young; incubation lasts approximately 26-29 days.


SECRETS:
Conspicuous plate visible on upper ridge of bill is only present in the breeding season. In flight, pelicans in a flock play 'follow the leader': when the lead bird flaps, the others flap; when the lead bird glides, the others glide.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Primarily found in shallow lakes, rivers, or marshes, usually in freshwater habitats; winter habitat includes brackish marshes and estuaries or bays.

Distribution: Breeds locally in the western United States and western Canada, from British Columbia east to west-central Ontario south to California, Nevada, Colorado, Texas, and Minnesota.  Winters in Florida, along the Gulf Coast, into Mexico and Central America, and along the Pacific Coast from California south to Baja California and Arizona (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large, long orange bill with pouch is diagnostic.  In flight, note black primaries and outer secondaries (compare with Snow Goose and Whooping Crane).  Immatures told by grayish-colored head and neck.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, where its nest (a simple scrape or depression in the ground) is placed on islands in freshwater lakes or occasionally in brackish waters.

Eggs: 1-6, usually 2; 90 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young; incubation lasts approximately 29-36 days and young are capable of flight when they are about 60 days old.


SECRETS:
Unlike the American White Pelican, which feeds on the surface of shallow lakes, the Brown Pelican dives (from the air) after its prey; fish are captured in its pouch at the time of the dive.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Coastal waters.

Distribution: Coastal resident in the east from Maryland south to Florida and the Gulf Coast; and in the west from the Gulf of California north to Central California.  Also breeds in coastal waters of the Bahamas, Central America, and South America.  May be found north of this range to British Columbia in the west and New York or the New England states in the east (A.O.U. 1998).  Vagrants have appeared at inland locations.

Field Marks: Large, long bill with pouch is characteristic of pelicans.  Overall, Brown Pelicans are dark gray in color, with a black belly.  The head and neck are white (usually tinged with yellow).  In breeding plumage, the rear of the neck becomes a dark chestnut color and a yellow patch appears at the base of the foreneck.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, where its simple nest of grasses or sticks is placed in trees; also may nest on the ground, in which case the nest is a simple scrape lined with feathers.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 76 mm.; white.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young; incubation lasts approximately 28-30 days and young are capable of flight when they are about 71-88 days old.


SECRETS:
In flight, the feet of whistling-ducks extend beyond the tail.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Shallow marshes, lagoons, or flooded fields, in both freshwater and brackish habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from South America, Central America, and Mexico north to southeastern California, central and eastern Texas, southwestern Louisiana, and more locally in central and southern Florida.  Northernmost individuals withdraw to the Gulf coast and Florida locales during the winter (A.O.U. 1998).  Vagrants have appeared at many locations further north.

Field Marks: Long neck.  Orange-brown body color; back is darker with orange-brown feather edges.  Note the white rump (compare with Black-bellied Whistling-Duck).

Nest Habits: Nest, of grasses and/or sedges, is usually placed in dense thicket of vegetation (e.g., cattails) at the edge of a marsh or pond.

Eggs: 6-16, usually 12-13, sometimes more; 53 mm.; buff-white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young; incubation lasts approximately 24-26 days and young are capable of flight when they are about 55-63 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Marshes and shallow lakes, in freshwater habitats.

Distribution: Resident in Mexico, Central America, and South America; breeding range extends north to south-central Arizona and the southern tip of Texas; also resident in southwestern Louisiana; some withdrawal of birds in Arizona and Louisiana occurs during the winter (A.O.U. 1998).  Vagrants have appeared in many locations north of this range.

Field Marks: Long neck; red bill; orange-brown breast contrasts sharply with black belly and black wings with white wing stripe; side of face is gray.

Nest Habits: Nests in cavities or on the ground among weeds or grasses near water's edge.

Eggs: 9-18, usually 12-14; 52 mm.; white or creamy white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young; incubation lasts approximately 25-30 days and young are capable of flight when they are about 53-63 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes that have dense emergent vegetation, in freshwater habitats.

Distribution: Formerly resident along the Gulf Coast of Texas; resident along both slopes of Middle America south into South America.  Vagrants have wandered north to such locations as central Texas, Louisiana, and Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White wing patches.  In breeding plumage, black on crown and side of face easily separates this species from the male Ruddy Duck.  Female (and winter-plumaged male) has two dark stripes on side of face, whereas the female Ruddy Duck only has one (winter-plumaged Ruddy Duck has none).

Nest Habits: Nest is an intricate, cup-like structure built of grasses which is placed on the ground in dense cover.

Eggs: 3-10; 63 mm.; buffy white in color.

Incubation: Females incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 28 days.


SECRETS:
In winter, Ruddy Ducks may sometimes be confused with Horned Grebes at a distance, as both species have a white cheek.  Note the stockier, more thick-necked appearance of the Ruddy Duck.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes and lakes with dense emergent vegetation intermixed with open water, usually in freshwater habitats.  Frequents more open bodies of water, estuaries, and bays in the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds at widely distributed locations in western North America from western and southern Texas north to central Manitoba and central Saskatchewan; and west to southern California north to British Columbia and the southwestern portion of Mackenzie; breeds more locally in the eastern U.S. and southeastern Canada.  Generally winters from Central America, Mexico, and the southern U.S. north to southern British Columbia, Idaho, Colorado, Kansas, the Great Lakes, and along the Atlantic coast to Massachusetts (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adult male in breeding plumage is easily told by its rich chestnut body color and bright blue bill; in winter, note the all white cheek.  Female has a white cheek with one horizontal dark line under the eye.

Nest Habits: Nests over water, where it builds a basket-shaped nest made from the nearby plants; nest is attached to emergent vegetation.

Eggs: 6-10, sometimes as many as 17; 62 mm.; creamy white in color.

Incubation: Females incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-26 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 42-48 days old.


SECRETS:
Introduced into U.S. from Old World. Although it occurs in many states, its status on some lists is hotly debated. Until self-sustaining populations are documented, some states do not officially recognize this swan on its state bird list.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Open lakes, ponds, and marshes, in freshwater habitats.  In winter, may also be found in brackish habitats.

Distribution: An Old World species, introduced into the U.S., where breeding has been documented in southwestern British Columbia, southern Saskatchewan, Montana, the Great Lakes region, New York, New England, and additional locations south of this range (A.O.U. 1998).  Some records may be the result of birds that have escaped from captivity.

Field Marks: Black knob on orange bill and the S-shaped neck are good field marks for adult birds.  On the water, wings are often carried higher than in other North American swans.  Dusky gray juvenile plumage begins to turn white by mid-winter.

Nest Habits: Breeds on the ground near water, where it builds its nest from cattails, reeds, and other aquatic vegetation.

Eggs: 4-8, sometimes as many as 10; 113 mm.; gray or blue-green in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 36 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 115-155 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in lakes, ponds, and marshes, in freshwater habitats.  In winter, may also be found in brackish waters.

Distribution: Eurasian species, regularly found in winter in the Aleutian Islands; considered to be a casual visitor to mainland Alaska, and accidental in Maine; vagrants have reportedly occurred further south in Oregon and California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Trumpeter Swan, but with large yellow patch on bill that extends to  or beyond nostrils.  Compare also with Bewick's form of Tundra Swan, where yellow on bill is more restricted.

Nest Habits: This species nests along the seacoasts, lakes, rivers, and tundra of Iceland and northern Europe and Asia.  Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in freshwater lakes, marshes, and rivers with slow-moving waters with emergent vegetation; occasionally in brackish waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska south to northern British Columbia, southwestern Mackenzie, northwestern Alberta, western and central Montana, and southern Saskatchewan (local breeder within this range); formerly bred as far south as the mid-Western United States.  Wintering range extends from southern Alaska south to California; also in Arizona, New Mexico, and east to Colorado and Minnesota (A.O.U. 1998).  The Trumpeter Swan has been introduced and established in many additional locations.

Field Marks: Black bill with no yellow spot (as in Tundra Swan).  Black at base of bill extends to encompass the eye (compare closely with Tundra Swan).

Nest Habits: Nest built of aquatic vegetation, is often placed on muskrat houses or beaver lodges; also may be placed along shoreline.

Eggs: 2-13, usually 4-6; 111 mm.; creamy-white in color.

Incubation: Females incubate the eggs; both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 33-37 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 91-119 days old.


SECRETS:
You can sometimes point a flashlight up into the night sky and see Tundra Swans when they are flying at a low-enough altitude.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra habitats; also on open lakes and ponds or in shallowly flooded agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeds in the Arctic tundra from western Alaska east to Baffin Island; and from there south to Churchill and the Hudson Bay area of Quebec.  Winters along the Pacific Coast inland to Nevada, Utah, Montana, and Wyoming, and south to southern Texas, New Mexico, and extreme northern Mexico; also in the Great Lakes region, and along the Atlantic Coast from Maryland to North Carolina (A.O.U. 1998).  Migrants and small numbers of wintering birds may be found at many inland locations in the mid-West.

Field Marks: Black on bill does not extend to encompass eye; many adults have yellow spot on bill in front of eye.  Immatures are dusky gray.

Nest Habits: Builds a nest of dried grasses or sedges on the ground.

Eggs: 2-7. Usually 4-5; 107 mm.; creamy-white in color.

Incubation: Females incubate the eggs; both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 35-40 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 60-70 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in or near rivers, lakes, and wet grasslands.

Distribution: This species breeds in Greenland and Iceland, and winters in Europe.  Considered accidental in Newfoundland and Quebec.  Other sight records along the east coast of the U.S. are doubtful (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Pink legs; bill is dark at base (compare with Greater White-fronted Goose).

Nest Habits: Nests in grassy mounds of vegetation, usually in tundra or marshes, but also along rivers or on rocky slopes.

Eggs: 4-8; white.

Incubation: Incubation (by female) lasts about 25-28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 49-56 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra, open heath, and grassland habitats; in winter, also found in brackish waters and freshwater lakes and ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A Eurasian species which regularly visits the western Aleutian Islands during the spring migration (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Greater White-fronted Goose, but note lack of white around base of bill;  in addition, note the black-colored bill which has a yellowish-orange band across the middle.  Also lacks black barring seen on the underside of White-fronted Goose.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies; nests in grassy mounds of vegetation, usually in tundra or marshes, but also along rivers or on rocky slopes.

Eggs: 4-5, but sometimes as many as 8; white.

Incubation: Incubation (by female) lasts about 27-29 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 49-56 days old.


SECRETS:
In mixed species goose flocks flying overhead, white-fronts can easily be told from Canada and Snow Geese by the black speckling on the bellies of adults and their distinctive 3-syllable call.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Open areas, arctic tundra, usually near water; in winter and migration, also frequents pastures and flooded agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska eastward across northern Yukon, Mackenzie, and Keewatin to western Greenland.  Winter range in the west extends from southern British Columbia south to Baja California; in the mid-west, from Texas and Louisiana north to Oklahoma and Kansas; and in the eastern U.S. from the Great Lakes region south to Mississippi and Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Key field marks include the black speckling on the belly, the pink bill bordered with white at the base, and the orange legs and feet.

Nest Habits: Breeds in loose colonies on open tundra.

Eggs: 1-7, usually 5-6; 79 mm.; buffy-white or cream-colored.

Incubation: The female incubates the eggs; both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-25 days and the young are capable of flight when they are about 45 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes, lakes, or smaller bodies of water; also in taiga habitats of northern Eurasia, where it breeds.

Distribution: Eurasian species, considered to be accidental in Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Told from Greater White-fronted Goose by the white at the base of the bill which extends onto the crown, smaller size of the bill, and a yellow eye ring.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Occasionally, some Snow Geese will be found in the summer time far south of their breeding range.  Non-breeding individuals have been found in several mid-Western states and in California.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Tundra and other open areas, usually near bodies of fresh water or salt-water marshes.  Often forages in pasturelands, cultivated fields, and flooded farmlands.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from northern Alaska east along the Arctic coast and islands to northwestern Greenland and Baffin Island, and south to Hudson Bay.  Winters in the west from coastal British Columbia south to California, Baja California, southwestern Arizona, and Mexico; in the mid-West from Nebraska, Iowa and the Great Lakes south to the Gulf Coast; and in the east along the Atlantic coast from New York south to Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black primary feathers.  Two color phases: a blue phase and a white phase.  In adult birds, note the thick, black 'grinning patch' that separates the upper and lower mandibles; compare with Ross' Goose.  Adults have pink bills whereas the bills of immatures are darker.

Nest Habits: Breeds on the ground, in colonies; nest is a depression lined with mosses, grasses, and down feathers.

Eggs: 1-8, usually 3-5; 80 mm.; white in color.

Incubation: Incubation lasts approximately 23-25 days, by female.  Young are able to fly when they are approximately 45-49 days old; both sexes care for the young.


SECRETS:
In the mid-West, Ross' Geese can best be found in wintering flocks of Snow Geese by scanning Snow Goose flocks and carefully looking for geese with a smaller bill that lacks a grinning patch.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Tundra and other open areas, usually near bodies of fresh water or brackish marshes.  Often forages in pasturelands, cultivated fields, and flooded farmlands.

Distribution: Breeds in northern Mackenzie and northwestern Keewatin, east to Southampton Island and the west coast of Hudson Bay south to James Bay.  Wintering range primarily consists of the interior valleys of California; can also be found in southern New Mexico, northern Mexico, Colorado and Oklahoma east to Missouri and southwestern Louisiana.  In migration, may also be found in other mid-Western states (e.g., Iowa and Illinois), Kentucky, and Tennessee (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to the Snow Goose, but noticeably smaller in size, with a shorter neck, and a smaller, stubbier bill that lacks a 'grinning patch'.  In adults, base of bill is often covered with bluish warty protuberances.  Immatures are similar to immature Snow Geese, but are usually paler in color (and, of course, smaller in size).

Nest Habits: Breeds on the ground, in colonies.  Nest consists of a depression or scrape that is lined with grasses, mosses, lichens, and twigs or roots.

Eggs: 1-6, usually 3-5; 74 mm.; white.

Incubation: Incubation lasts approximately 21-24 days, by female.  Young are able to fly when they are approximately 40-45 days old; both sexes care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in the Arctic tundra, usually near water, and generally not too far from the coast; in winter, frequents salt-water habitats along the Pacific coast.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from western Alaska to northeastern Siberia.  Wintering range includes the Aleutian Islands and the Pacific coast from southeastern Alaska south to California.

Field Marks: White on head and back of neck contrasts with black throat and chin.  Silver-gray body plumage is punctuated with by black-and-white edging to feathers.

Nest Habits: Usually breeds near the coast, where its nest consists of a depression lined with grasses and feathers.  May also nest on islands.

Eggs: 3-12, usually 4-7; 80 mm.; creamy-white in color.

Incubation: Incubation lasts approximately 23-27 days, by female.  Young are able to fly when they are approximately 50-60 days old; both sexes care for the young.


SECRETS:
Many subspecies of Canada Goose are recognized in the literature, ranging in size from the diminutive Cackling and Richardson's Canada Goose to the Giant Canada Goose.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a variety of habitats, ranging from tundra to pasturelands, and flooded agricultural fields to wooded swamps; almost always near water.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from the Arctic coast of Alaska east to northern Canada and western Greenland; and south to an approximate line extending from central California east to Tennessee, Kentucky, New York, and Virginia.  Widespread in winter, at which time it can be found in southern Alaska, southern Canada, and throughout many of the lower 48 states; and even into northern Mexico.  In the U.S., there are many feral populations of Canada Geese, even in areas that are outside the normal breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black neck, gray body plumage, and white chin patch that extends up onto side of face.

Nest Habits: Breeds on the ground, usually near water.  Nest consists of a depression lined with grasses, mosses, and small sticks.  Also readily accepts artificial nest platforms.

Eggs: 2-12, usually 4-7; 74-90 mm.; white.

Incubation: Incubation lasts approximately 25-30 days, by female.  Young are able to fly when they are approximately 40-73 days old; both sexes care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Rivers, marshes, and grasslands in Arctic habitats.

Distribution: Breeding range includes eastern Greenland; winters in northwestern Europe.  Considered to be a casual visitor to many locations in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Upper breast and neck uniformly black, contrasting with white head.  Note black line that extends from the bill to the eye.

Nest Habits: Breeds in loose colonies.  Nests on the ground, usually in rocky areas.  Nest consists of a scrape lined with feathers and down.

Eggs: 2-9, usually 4-6; grayish-white in color.

Incubation: Incubation lasts approximately 24-25 days, by female.  Young are able to fly when they are approximately 42-49 days old.


SECRETS:
The 'Black' Brant of the Pacific and the pale-belied Brant of the Atlantic were once considered two different species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in Arctic tundra; in winter, usually frequents coastal bays, marshes, and estuaries (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends form Southampton Island in Hudson Bay north to Greenland and west along the Arctic coast and islands of northern Canada to Western Alaska.  Winters on the Pacific and Atlantic coasts of the United States, south to Baja California, Mexico, and Florida; also along the coastline of British Columbia and southeastern Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Small size; black on head, neck, and upper breast.  Note small, white patch on side of neck.  Depending on subspecies, belly color may be pale gray or mostly black in color.

Nest Habits: Breeds in loose colonies; nest is placed on the ground and is a depression lined with down feathers, grasses, leaves, and other materials.

Eggs: 1-8, usually 3-5; 73 mm.; dull white in color.

Incubation: Incubation lasts approximately 22-26 days, by female.  Young are able to fly when they are approximately 40-50 days old; both sexes care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water lakes, ponds, rivers, and marshes.

Distribution: A resident of Mexico, Central America, and South America; rare visitor to Texas, where it has bred at least once (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Variable plumage; color may vary from all white to nearly all dark with a white wing patch and yellowish eyes.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity.

Eggs: 8-9; white overall with a greenish tint.

Incubation: Incubation lasts approximately 35 days.


SECRETS:
Some Wood Duck nests may contain over 20 eggs, which is usually a result of 'dump nesting', an activity defined by more than one female laying eggs in the same nest cavity.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water lakes, ponds, marshes, flooded forests, and woodland swamps, usually where there is emergent cover.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern British Columbia east to Nova Scotia; and south to California, New Mexico, Texas, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida; less widespread on the Great Plains, in the Rocky Mountains, and in desert habitats of the southwest.  Generally winters throughout much of its breeding range in western North America; further east, winter range extends from eastern Colorado, southern Kansas, southern Minnesota, the Ohio River Valley, and New England south throughout the remainder of the breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Green and white colors of the male's head and crest are unmistakable; teardrop-shaped eye ring of female is diagnostic.

Nest Habits: Nests in cavities, but also readily utilizes artificial nest boxes that have been specifically built for it; usually near water.

Eggs: 6-15 or more, usually 10-15; 51 mm.; dull white in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28-37 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 56-70 days old.


SECRETS:
Once you have discovered a Eurasian Wigeon, take notice of the location of the observation: you may find that Eurasian Wigeons will frequent the same marsh again and again in subsequent years.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in shallow bodies of water, marshes, and flooded agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeds in Eurasia; in winter, may be found in North America along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts; more rarely inland.  Sightings of individuals in the lower 48 states are increasing in number.

Field Marks: Similar to an American Wigeon, but note the silver-gray sides, and chestnut-colored head and cream-colored forehead of the male.  In flight, note the gray axillaries of the female (white in American Wigeon).

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
The call of the American Wigeon is easily learned and can be used to identify this species in the early morning or in thick fog long before actual birds are seen.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in shallow lakes, ponds, marshes, estuaries, and flooded agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central Alaska diagonally southeast to Nova Scotia; the southern border of the breeding range extends eastward from northern California across Nevada, northern New Mexico, Colorado, Nebraska, the Great Lakes, and into New York (A.O.U. 1998).  Generally winters south of the breeding range, including the Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf coasts, Baja California, and Mexico.

Field Marks: Male is easily recognized by its grayish head, white forehead and crown, and green patch that encloses the eye.  Both sexes have a large white wing patch on the leading edge of the upper wing.  In flight, note the white axillaries in the female (compare with Eurasian Wigeon).

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a scrape that is lined with grasses, leaves, and down feathers.

Eggs: 6-12, usually 7-10; 54 mm.; white or off-white in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 23-25 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 37-48 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water lakes, ponds, and rivers.

Distribution: Asian species, occasionally observed in Alaska and the Aleutian Islands.

Field Marks: This species is named for the male's long, curved tertial feathers which hang over the tail in resting birds.  Side of head in male is dominated by a large green patch (compare with Common Teal).

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
White wing patch may be hidden on swimming female; best told from female Mallard by the bill color: upper mandible is orange on the sides and dark gray down the middle (female Mallard's bill is splotched orange and black).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in shallow lakes, ponds, marshes, and flooded agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern Alaska, southern Yukon, and northeastern British Columbia east across central Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, central Ontario, and southwestern Quebec to New Brunswick; and south to southern California, southern Nevada, northern Arizona, southern New Mexico, south-central Texas, southern Kansas, northern Iowa, and the Great Lakes region; along the Atlantic coast, breeding range extends south to North Carolina.  Generally winters form southern Alaska, southern British Columbia, and the northern U.S. south to northern Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A dabbling duck that is best identified in flight by the large white wing patch on the trailing edge of the upper wing.  Gray plumage of the male contrasts sharply with the black tail coverts.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a scrape that is lined with plant materials and down feathers.

Eggs: 5-15, usually 8-11; 55 mm.; white or off-white in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 24-27 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 48-56 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in small bodies of water, usually in forested areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Asian species, occasionally observed in Alaska and along the Pacific coast south to California.

Field Marks: Complex color pattern on head of male is diagnostic; also note the long, reddish-brown scapulars.  Female has white spot at base of bill and just below the eye (compare with female Common Teal).

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Three subspecies are known; the form resident on the Aleutian Islands and the Eurasian form lack white vertical bar on side and instead have white horizontal stripe along scapulars.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in shallow lakes, ponds, marshes, estuaries, and flooded agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and northern Yukon east across northwestern and southern Mackenzie, southern Keewatin, northeastern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and northern Quebec to Newfoundland; and south to central Oregon, northern Nevada, Colorado, South Dakota, southern Minnesota, and southern Ontario east to Massachusetts and Nova Scotia; may breed irregularly and locally south of this range.  Generally winters from southern Alaska, southern British Columbia, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and the northern U.S. south to Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Small size; male's chestnut head and green patch is diagnostic.  Most birds seen in North America have a white vertical bar extending downward from the shoulder area (males only).

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a scrape that is lined with grasses, weeds, and feathers.

Eggs: 5-15, usually 8-9; 46 mm.; dull white or pale olive-buff in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 21-23 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 34 days old.


SECRETS:
Many domestic ducks appear similar to the Mallard but can be told by their often odd color patterns, tameness, and 'over-sized' appearance.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in shallow lakes, ponds, marshes, and flooded agricultural fields.

Distribution: Widespread and often abundant throughout most of North America.  Breeds north to southern Quebec, the south edge of Hudson Bay, southern Keewatin, northwestern Mackenzie, and Alaska; breeding range extends south to northern Baja California, Arizona, New Mexico, Mexico, west-central Texas, and from Oklahoma east across the Ohio River Valley to Virginia.  Localized breeding occurs south of this range to the Gulf coast and Florida, and also in southwestern Greenland.  Winter distribution extends from southern Alaska and southern Canada south to Mexico, the Gulf coast, and Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Green head and yellow bill of male is easily recognized; note the female's orange bill splotched with dark gray or black.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground, usually near water, and is built from dead grasses, cattails, and down feathers.  Some nests may be placed on the ground in nearby woody or brushy areas when other suitable nesting habitat is lacking.

Eggs: 5-15, usually 7-10; 58 mm.; greenish- or grayish-white in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 26-30 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 42-60 days old.


SECRETS:
Some authorities consider the Mottled Duck, Mallard, and American Black Duck to all be representatives of the same species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in brackish or fresh-water ponds and marshes; also in flooded agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeding range is limited primarily to coastal habitats extending from northwestern Florida west along the Gulf coast to Texas, and south to Mexico; winter range generally overlaps breeding range.

Field Marks: Green wing speculum is bordered in black; tail is dark, and bill in both sexes is yellow.  Compare closely with female Mallard and American Black Duck; Mottled Duck is paler than the American Black Duck.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground, and is built from grasses, reeds, and other aquatic vegetation.

Eggs: 5-13, usually 8-11; 56 mm.; greenish- or creamy-white in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 25-27 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 60-70 days old.


SECRETS:
Because the more abundant Mallard hybridizes with the Black Duck, concern has been expressed over the Black Duck's future due to the infiltration of Mallard genes into the Black Duck's gene pool (this is often termed 'genetic swamping').

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a variety of fresh-water and salt-water habitats, including ponds, lakes, marshes, swamps, and flooded agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from northern Manitoba east to northern Quebec and Newfoundland, and south to northern South Dakota, Minnesota, northern Illinois, central Indiana, northern Ohio, West Virginia, and North Carolina.  Generally winters in the southern portion of its breeding range, south to northern Louisiana, northern Mississippi, northern Alabama, and northern Georgia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to female Mallard, but noticeably darker; speculum bordered in black.  In flight, note the white wing linings, which contrast with the dark body plumage.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a scrape that is lined with grasses, leaves, and down feathers.

Eggs: 5-17, usually 8-10; 59 mm.; creamy-white to greenish-buff in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 26-29 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 58-63 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in small streams and ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Asian species, occasionally observed in Alaska.

Field Marks: Two-toned bill (dark at base, yellow at extreme tip), white tertial feathers, dark tail; otherwise, compare with female Mallard.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Although suffering from recent population declines, the Northern Pintail can at times be found in abundant numbers.  The long tail of the male aids in identification of flying birds, even at great distances.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a variety of habitats, including tundra, lakes, rivers, ponds, marshes, estuaries, and flooded agricultural fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Widespread breeding range extends from northern Alaska to Nova Scotia; and south to southern California, southern New Mexico, western Oklahoma, northwestern Missouri, northern Illinois, and northern Indiana east to Massachusetts (A.O.U. 1998).  Generally winters in the southern portion of its breeding range, south and east to the Gulf and Atlantic coasts; also into Mexico and Baja California.

Field Marks: Slender neck and gray-colored bill separate female from Mallard; long, pointed tail and white on breast extending up onto neck are unmistakable field marks for the male.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a scrape that is lined with grasses, leaves, mosses, and down feathers.

Eggs: 6-12, usually 6-9; 55 mm.; olive-green or olive-buff in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 22-25 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 36-57 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water and salt-water lakes, marshes, and ponds; occasionally in agricultural fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A resident of West Indies and South America; occasionally found in Florida; considered to be accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note the white cheek and throat; bill is blue, with a red spot near its base.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in shallow lakes, ponds, and streams, usually in fresh-water habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Eurasian species; found in migration in the western Aleutian Islands; occasionally reported in Iceland; more rarely at other locations in Canada and the United States (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark crown.  White eyestripe runs from just in front of the eye to the side of the neck in the male; female has a less conspicuous pale eyestripe, a dark eye line, and a second horizontal line on cheek just below a noticeable white spot at base of bill.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
The Blue-winged Teal may hybridize with the closely related Cinnamon Teal (A.O.U. 1998).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in shallow ponds, lakes, fresh- and salt-water marshes, and in flooded agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from eastern Alaska southeastward to Ontario, southern Quebec, and Newfoundland; and south to northern California, northern Arizona, and New Mexico east to Tennessee and the mid-Atlantic coast.  Generally winters along the Gulf coast; on the Pacific coast from northern California south; and on the Atlantic coast from North Carolina south; however, regularly occurs in small numbers further north during the winter.  Noticeably less common on the west coast, where it is replaced by Cinnamon Teal.

Field Marks: Dark gray head with white crescent in front of the eye identifies the male; female's bill is more slender, smaller, and not as broad as the bill of the Cinnamon Teal.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground, usually near water, and is built from grass, cattails, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 6-15, usually 8-11; 47 mm.; creamy-white in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 23-27 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 35-44 days old.


SECRETS:
The 'Blue-winged Teal' of the western U.S., the Cinnamon Teal is rare east of the Rocky Mountains; look for migrant Cinnamon Teals in the east during the spring migration.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in shallow ponds, lakes, streams, and marshes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from coastal and southern interior British Columbia and central Alberta east across southwestern Saskatchewan to central North Dakota; and south to northern Baja California, central Mexico, and western Texas; generally overwinters in the southern portion of its range, south to South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Cinnamon-colored head, neck, and body plumage of the male is diagnostic; female's bill is longer and broader than female Blue-winged Teal's.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground, and consists of a scrape lined with grasses and down feathers.

Eggs: 4-16, usually 7-12; 48 mm.; pinkish-buff or white in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 21-25 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 49 days old.


SECRETS:
The Shoveler's bill is highly specialized, allowing it to strain very small organisms from the surface & muddy bottoms of lakes & ponds. At a distance, easily told from Mallard by the reversal in colors: white breast & chestnut sides.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in shallow lakes, ponds, marshes, and flooded agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and northern Yukon east across northwestern and southern Mackenzie, and northern Manitoba to northern Ontario (sometimes further east to Nova Scotia); and south to southern California, Utah, northern Colorado, northwestern Oklahoma, central Kansas, northern Missouri, and central Illinois east to northeastern Maryland and Delaware.  Breeding is also known from southern New Mexico and southeastern Texas.  Generally winters from South America, Central America, and Mexico north to coastal and southern British Columbia, western Washington, Idaho, western Montana, Colorado, central Texas, the Gulf coast, and Maryland; and regularly further north in the eastern U.S. (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Spatulate bill is diagnostic in both sexes.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground, and consists of a scrape lined with grasses and down feathers.

Eggs: 6-14, usually 9-12; 52 mm.; olive-buff or greenish-gray in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 22-25 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 38-66 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water marshes and lakes, usually with emergent vegetation; also in brackish waters, and occasionally in estuaries (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Eurasian species; considered casual or accidental in Alaska and California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Resembles Canvasback, but with gray band on dark bill.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
The Canvasback's Latin name is derived from its fondness for wild celery. Canvasbacks depend largely on this plant during fall migration. The majority of the eastern Canvasback population feeds on Mississippi River wild celery plants.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in fresh-water marshes and lakes with emergent vegetation; winters in larger, deeper bodies of water, including estuaries.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central Alaska and northern Yukon east across western and southern Mackenzie, central Saskatchewan, and central and northeastern Manitoba to western Ontario; and south to northeastern California, northern Nevada, central New Mexico, central Kansas, northwestern Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan, and central New York.  Generally winters from Baja California, southern Mexico, the Gulf coast, and Florida north to New England, the Great Lakes region, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, western Montana, Idaho, and along the Pacific coast to south-coastal Alaska and the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Long sloping forehead merges seamlessly with long, black bill; compare with Redhead.

Nest Habits: Nest, which is anchored to emergent vegetation and placed over water, is built of aquatic vegetation such as bulrushes or sedges.

Eggs: 7-12, usually 7-10; 62 mm.; grayish- or greenish-olive in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 24-29 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 56-68 days old.


SECRETS:
Like the Wood Duck, the Redhead may practice 'dump nesting', whereby more than one female may lay eggs in the same nest.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in fresh-water marshes; winters in brackish and salt-water habitats more so than in fresh-water lakes and marshes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from British Columbia, southwestern Mackenzie, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Minnesota south to southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, northern Texas, Kansas, and Iowa.  Localized breeding also occurs in south-central and southeastern Alaska; occasionally may breed in scattered localities in eastern North America  (A.O.U. 1998).  Generally winters south of breeding range, to include the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, the Mississippi River valley, Baja California, Mexico, and northern Central America.

Field Marks: Head is more rounded and shorter than in Canvasback; note the 3-colored bill: mostly gray, with a white ring and black tip.  Back and sides of male are grayer than in Canvasback.

Nest Habits: Nest, which is anchored to emergent vegetation and placed over water, is built of aquatic vegetation such as rushes or cattails.

Eggs: 9-16, usually 11; 61 mm.; pale olive-buff in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 24-28 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 56-73 days old.


SECRETS:
At a distance, male Ring-necked Ducks can be told from scaup by the dark back; male scaup have pale gray backs.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes, bogs, swamps, lakes, and ponds, usually in or near forested areas; generally in fresh-water habitats.

Distribution: Breeding range includes east-central and southeastern Alaska, and extends from northeastern British Columbia and southern Yukon east across northwestern and southern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, northern Ontario, and southern Quebec to Nova Scotia; and south to northern California, central Nevada, western Colorado, northeastern South Dakota, northern Iowa, Wisconsin, northern Indiana, southern Ontario, northern New York, and Maine; also locally in Georgia and north-central Florida.  Generally winters from Central America, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and Florida north to New England, the southern Great Lakes, the lower Mississippi and Ohio River valleys, Oklahoma, Colorado, western Montana, Idaho, Washington, and along the Pacific coast to southeastern Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White band near tip of bill.  In male, note the white vertical bar which separates the black breast from the gray sides; female is generally brown overall, with a white eye ring which continues as a faint but noticeable line that extends back from the eye.

Nest Habits: Nests over water or on the ground near water's edge; nest is built of grasses, moss, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 6-14, usually 8-10; 58 mm.; olive-buff in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 26-27 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 49-56 days old.


SECRETS:
Patience is the key to locating your first Tufted Duck: thoroughly scan all large flocks of scaup and Ring-necked Ducks on a regular basis and you will eventually meet with success.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on fresh-water ponds and lakes; also in salt-water habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Eurasian species which migrates regularly through the Aleutian Islands.  Considered rare on the Pacific coast from southern British Columbia south to southern California; in the Great Lakes region; and on the Atlantic coast from Newfoundland and Nova Scotia south to New Jersey (A.O.U. 1998).  Becomes even more rare further inland.

Field Marks: Dark back.  Tuft of feathers extending from the back of the head is present in both sexes; most noticeable in adult male.  Adult male has bright white sides and lacks the contrasting white vertical bar of the male Ring-necked Duck.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
BEWARE: head color in adult male scaup is iridescent and therefore not completely reliable; however, in good light, Greater Scaup have a greenish sheen to their heads & Lesser Scaup have a purplish sheen.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on ponds or lakes in taiga and tundra habitats; winters in or near estuaries or lagoons, less commonly on fresh-water lakes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from western Alaska and northern Yukon east across northwestern, north-central, and southern Mackenzie, southern Keewatin, and Hudson and James Bays to northern Quebec; and south to central Manitoba, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland.  In the west, winter range extends from the Aleutian Islands south to northern Baja California (and inland to western Montana, southwestern Arizona, and southern New Mexico); in the middle part of the continent, winter range extends from the Great Lakes region, the Ohio River valley, and the lower Mississippi River valley south to the Gulf coast; and along the Atlantic coast, it winters from Newfoundland south to central Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Head shape of this species is more smoothly rounded and lacks the peaked crown appearance seen in the Lesser Scaup; at close range (especially when seen through a spotting scope), the black tip of the bill is noticeably wider than in Lesser Scaup.  White at base of bill on females are typical of both scaup species.

Nest Habits: Nests over water or on the ground near water's edge; nest is built of nearby vegetation and lined with grass and down feathers.

Eggs: 5-11, usually 7-10; 62 mm.; dark olive-buff in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 24-28 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 35-42 days old.


SECRETS:
BEWARE: head color in adult male scaup is iridescent and therefore not completely reliable; however, in good light, Lesser Scaup have a purplish sheen to their heads & Greater Scaup have a greenish sheen.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh- and salt-water habitats, ranging in size from small marshes and ponds to large lakes and estuaries or bays.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central Alaska and central Yukon east across northwestern and southern Mackenzie and northern Manitoba to northern Ontario; and south to central California, northern Utah, western and central Colorado, central Nebraska, Kansas, northwestern Iowa, central Illinois, and western New York; sometimes breeds east to central Quebec.  Generally winters from South America, Central America, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and Florida north to New England, the southern Great Lakes region, Iowa, Kansas, northeastern Colorado, Montana, Idaho, Washington, southern British Columbia, and southern Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Head shape of this species contains a noticeable 'peaked crown' appearance (compare with Greater Scaup); at close range (especially when seen through a spotting scope), the black tip of the bill is noticeably narrower than in Greater Scaup.  White at base of bill on females are typical of both scaup species.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a scrape that is lined with grasses and down feathers.

Eggs: 8-14, usually 9-12; 57 mm.; olive or olive-buff in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 21-28 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 45-50 days old.


SECRETS:
After young leave the nest, 'creches' or groups are formed, wherein several females guard the chicks from two or more broods.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coastal habitats such as lagoons, bays, and estuaries.

Distribution: Breeding range includes islands in the Arctic Ocean, Hudson Bay, coastal areas from northern Quebec, Labrador, Greenland, and Newfoundland south to Nova Scotia, New Hampshire, and Maine; and coastal habitats from northeastern Mackenzie to Alaska.  Generally winters offshore from breeding areas; in the west, winter range extends from the Bering Sea to southeastern Alaska, and in the east it includes open waters of Hudson and James bays, and the Atlantic coast south to New York (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Long, sloping forehead.  In the male, not the contrast between the white back and the black belly and sides.  Female is brown with dark barring, which is typical of female eiders.  Unlike the King Eider, the feathers on the side of the bill extends to or beyond the nostril.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nest is placed on the ground, is built from mosses, grass, seaweeds, and other vegetation, and is lined with down feathers.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4-5; 76 mm.; pale brown to olive-green in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 25-30 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 65-75 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in Arctic ponds or, in winter, offshore along rocky coastlines or in large bays (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes islands and/or coastal habitats in the Bering Sea, along the Arctic coast from northern Alaska east to Greenland, the west coast of Hudson Bay, and islands in Hudson and James bays.  Winters in the Bering Sea and along the Aleutian Islands, the southern tip of Greenland, and the northeast Atlantic coast (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Head pattern of adult breeding male is unique.  Compare female with female Common Eider; note the more rounded head shape, the 'V-shaped' barring on the side of the body, and the feather pattern on the side of the face near the bill.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and is lined with feathers.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 4-5; 68 mm.; olive-buff in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 22-24 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 30-50 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in Arctic ponds, lakes, and deltas lined with sedges or grass; or, in winter, within open water areas of pack ice (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes the Arctic coasts of Alaska and Siberia.  Winters in the Bering Sea and less commonly along coastal Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Orange bill, greenish head, and white patch (with a black border) around eye are unmistakable features for the adult male.  Note the feather pattern on the face of the female: feathering on upper mandible is extensive, creating a short-billed appearance; in addition, a pale grayish eye patch is also visible.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground, near water.  The nest is built of grasses and lined with down feathers.

Eggs: 1-9, usually 4-6; 68 mm.; olive-green in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 24 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 50-53 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in Arctic ponds, lakes; also in shallow bays, lagoons, and other salt-water or marine habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes the Arctic coasts of Alaska and Siberia.  Winters in the Aleutian Islands to the southern coast of Alaska, occasionally as far south as northern California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adult male has white head with black eye patch; also note the green tuft on the top rear of the crown.  Pale eye ring contrasts with overall dark body plumage in female; compare head and bill shape with female Common and King Eiders.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground, near water, and is lined with down feathers.

Eggs: 5-10 usually 6-8; 61 mm.; pale yellow to olive-buff in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Although breeding habitat is unknown, this sea duck spent the winter in or near sandy bays and estuaries (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Currently extinct.  Thought to have bred in Labrador; documented along the Atlantic coast from Nova Scotia south to New Jersey and further inland to Quebec (A.O.U. 1998).


SECRETS:
Note the precise location where you have discovered or observed wintering Harlequin Ducks: this species has a habit of returning to the same location year after year.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested mountain streams and rivers; and, in winter, in turbulent waters near rocky coast lines (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from western Alaska, the northern Yukon, and southern Alberta south to Washington, eastern Oregon, Idaho, and western Wyoming.  Winters along rocky coast lines from the Aleutian Islands south to central California; and on the Atlantic coast from southern Labrador, Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia south to New York (A.O.U. 1998).  Less common at other inland locations such as the Great Lakes; very rare further inland.

Field Marks: Small bill.  Complex color pattern of the male is diagnostic. Female has three white spots before and after the eye on the side of the face; compare with female Bufflehead.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground or in a tree cavity; lined with grasses.

Eggs: 5-10, usually 6-8; 58 mm.; cream- or buff-colored.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28-30 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 60-70 days old.


SECRETS:
May dive up to 200 feet. After young leave the nest, 'creches' or groups are formed, wherein several females guard the chicks from three or more broods; some groups may number more than 100 individuals.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on shallow lakes in taiga or tundra habitats; or, in winter, along coast lines or bays, less commonly on large inland lakes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska east across northern Canada and islands in the Arctic Ocean to Greenland and Labrador; and south to: northwestern British Columbia; and eastern and south-central Mackenzie, Keewatin, Hudson Bay, and James Bay.  Generally winters south of its breeding range, primarily in the Bering Sea and along the Aleutian Islands, the Great Lakes region, and along the northern Pacific & Atlantic coasts; rare at other inland or coastal locations (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Long tail; short, stubby bill.  Study the variable plumages of this species closely; male, for instance, ranges from mostly white in the winter and early spring to mostly dark in the late spring and summer.

Nest Habits: May breed in loose colonies.  Nest, which is placed on the ground near water, is built from moss, sedges, and grasses, and is lined with leaves and down feathers.

Eggs: 5-11, usually 6-8; 53 mm.; color is yellow-buff or cream.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 24-29 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 35-40 days old.


SECRETS:
Look for Black Scoters in the fall at inland locations following major storm fronts; at a distance, compare first winter males and females with winter-plumaged Ruddy Duck, which is similar in appearance.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on lakes and small bodies of water in taiga or tundra habitats; or, in winter, on the ocean or in bays, less commonly on large inland lakes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes the following disjunct locations: Alaska, southern Keewatin, Newfoundland, and northern Quebec.  Winters on the Pacific coast from the Aleutian Islands south to southern California; and on the Atlantic coast from Newfoundland south to Florida.  Rare at other coastal or inland locations during migration and in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adult male is all black with an orangish knob at base of otherwise dark bill; female is also all dark except for lower cheek and throat, which are pale white.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, usually near water.  Nest is built of grasses and other fine materials, and is lined with down feathers.

Eggs: 5-11, usually 6-8; 62 mm.; pale pinkish-buff in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 30-31 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 45-50 days old.


SECRETS:
The most abundant of the three scoters, the Surf Scoter may often be found in large numbers in the surf of the Atlantic or Pacific Oceans.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on lakes, ponds, or on the ocean; also in bays or estuaries; less commonly in the winter on large inland lakes.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from the Mackenzie River delta east across central Mackenzie and northern Manitoba to Hudson Bay and west-central Quebec; and south to western and central Alaska, southern Yukon, northeastern British Columbia, central Alberta, and northern Saskatchewan; also breeds in eastern Quebec and southern Labrador.  Winters on the Pacific coast from the Aleutian Islands south to central Baja California and Mexico; and on the Atlantic coast from Maine south to North Carolina and Florida.  Rare at most inland locations during migration and in winter, although it is a regular migrant through Utah, North & South Dakota, and the Great Lakes region (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adult male is all black except for black/white/orange bill and white patches on the forehead and nape of neck.  Females and immatures are generally dark overall, with two pale white patches on side of face: one before and the other behind the eye; compare with White-winged Scoter.  Feathering on bill is not as extensive as in White-winged Scoter, making the bill appear longer.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground.  Nest is built of weeds, and is lined with down feathers.

Eggs: 5-8, usually 7; 62 mm.; pinkish- or buffy-white in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.


SECRETS:
The white wing patch of the White-winged Scoter is not always visible; compare closely with other scoters.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on lakes, ponds, and streams in tundra and prairie habitats.  In winter, found on the ocean, in bays or estuaries; less commonly on large inland lakes.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and northern Yukon east across northwestern and southern Mackenzie and southern Keewatin to northern Manitoba; and south to southern Yukon, interior British Columbia, southeastern Alberta, southern Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and western Quebec.  Winters on the Pacific coast from the Aleutian Islands south to Baja California; in the Great Lakes region; and on the Atlantic coast from Newfoundland south to New Jersey and South Carolina.  Rare at most inland locations during migration and in winter, although it is a regular migrant through Utah, North Dakota, the Great Lakes region, and the Mississippi & Ohio River valleys (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adult male is all black except for small white patch around eye and white wing patch.  Females and immatures are also all dark, with two pale white patches on side of face: one before and the other behind the eye.  Feathering on bill extends almost to nostrils.  Compare facial and bill feathering pattern with Surf Scoter.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground.  Nest is lined with sticks, leaves, and down feathers.

Eggs: 5-12, usually 9; 65 mm.; pinkish or pale buff in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 25-30 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 63-75 days old.


SECRETS:
In flight, the sound of its whistling wings is diagnostic.  In the winter, several hundred and even up to a 1000 or more birds can be found concentrated at a single location on large inland lakes.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested lakes, ponds, rivers, and coastal bays; in winter, also frequents open bays, estuaries, large lakes, and rivers (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from western Alaska and northern Yukon east across northwestern and southern Mackenzie, southwestern Keewatin, northern Manitoba, and northern Ontario to central Labrador and Newfoundland; and  south to northern Washington, central Montana, northwestern Wyoming, southern Saskatchewan, northern North Dakota, the Great Lakes region, northern New York, northern New England, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.  Generally winters along the west coast from the Aleutians and southeastern Alaska south to northern Mexico and Baja California (and east to Idaho and Utah; in the Great Lakes region; and along the east and Gulf coasts from Newfound and Nova Scotia south to central Florida (and west to Texas).  Also occurs in smaller numbers at many other inland locations in the U.S. during the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: On male, note dark green head with roundish white spot in front of and below eye.  Scapular feathers are mostly white.  Female's bill is usually dark with a yellow tip.  Compare all of these field marks with Barrow's Goldeneye.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity, usually close to water.

Eggs: 5-15, usually 7-10; 60 mm.; light green to olive-green in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28-32 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 56-60 days old.


SECRETS:
Like the Common Goldeneye, the Barrow's Goldeneye's wings also whistle in flight, aiding in its identification.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested lakes, ponds, and rivers; in winter, also frequents open bays and estuaries, especially in or near rocky habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central Alaska, southern Yukon, northern British Columbia, and west-central Alberta south to coastal and southeastern Alaska, northern Washington, eastern Oregon, western Montana, and northwestern Wyoming.  Generally winters along the Pacific coast from southern Alaska south to central California, and more locally in the interior from British Columbia, Idaho and northern Montana south to western Arizona and northern New Mexico; in the east, also winters along the coast from Nova Scotia south to Rhode Island; rare in winter at inland locations (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: On male, note dark head with white crescent in front of eye; white on scapular feathers resembles a row of spots.  Female's bill is mostly yellow, but may appear darker (with just a yellow tip) in eastern populations and in young females.  Note the steep forehead in all plumages.  Compare all of these field marks with Common Goldeneye.

Nest Habits: Usually nests in tree cavity, but also in rock cavities or stream banks when trees are absent.

Eggs: 6-15, usually 9-13; 61 mm.; dark green to light olive in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 32-34 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 56 days old.


SECRETS:
Commonly seen on small inland lakes and ponds in the winter; told at a distance from Hooded Merganser by the white sides (where side of body meets the water line); Hooded Merganser is much darker.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on lakes and ponds; in winter, also frequents open bays, estuaries, and rivers (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central Alaska, southern Yukon, western and southern Mackenzie, southern Keewatin, northeastern Manitoba, and northern Ontario south to southern British Columbia, northern Washington, western Montana, southern Alberta, southern Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, northwestern Minnesota, central Ontario, and west-central Quebec; breeds more locally south of this range.  Winter range extends south of a line running from the Aleutian Islands on the Pacific Coast to Washington, Idaho, and Montana; and in the interior south of a line running from the Great Lakes region to Nova Scotia on the Atlantic coast (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Small size.  Male has dark head with large white patch; female is more drab, with a horizontal white patch on side of face just below and in back of eye.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity, usually near water.

Eggs: 6-12, usually 8-10; 46 mm.; ivory-yellow to pale olive-buff in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28-33 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 50-55 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on lakes, ponds, rivers, and bays (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Eurasian species which migrates regularly through the Aleutian Islands, and occasionally through British Columbia.  Considered accidental in other locations in the United States and Canada (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Short, dark bill.  White throat and reddish-brown head of female make it appear like a miniature version of female Common Merganser.  Male is generally white with black lines on side of body and head.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Told at a distance from Bufflehead by the dark sides (where side of body meets the water line); Bufflehead is mostly white on sides.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on woodland streams, lakes, ponds, and swamps; in winter, also frequents marshes, bays, and estuaries (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: In the west, breeding range extends from southeastern Alaska, coastal British Columbia, and northern Alberta south to southwestern Oregon, central Idaho, and western Montana.  In the east, breeding range extends from central Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, central Ontario, southern Quebec, and Nova Scotia south to northeastern Texas, northern Louisiana, central Mississippi, southern Alabama, and northern Georgia.  Winters on the Pacific coast; from New England south to Florida on the Atlantic coast; along the Gulf coast; and more locally at inland locations of the United States and Canada (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Smallest of the three common North American mergansers.  Note black head with white patch on conspicuous crest in male; female also usually shows a crest, and is generally brown in color; compare with the noticeably larger Red-breasted Merganser.

Nest Habits: Nests in tree cavity or artificial nest box.

Eggs: 7-18, usually 10-12; 54 mm.; white in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28-41 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 71 days old.


SECRETS:
In the winter, the Red-breasted Merganser is more likely to be found in salt-water or brackish habitats than is the Common Merganser.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on rivers and lakes; in winter, also frequents bays, estuaries, and shallow coastal waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska, northern Yukon, northern Mackenzie, central Keewatin, Baffin Island, Labrador, and Newfoundland south to the Aleutian Islands, northwestern British Columbia, northern Alberta, southwestern and central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, northern New York, Vermont, Maine, and Nova Scotia.  Generally winters along the Pacific, Gulf, and Atlantic coasts, including the Great Lakes region, Baja California, and Mexico; also, locally on large inland lakes (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Shaggy crest.  Red breast of male distinguishes this species from the larger Common Merganser.  Female shows indistinct border between white breast and reddish-brown sides of neck.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and lined with down feathers.

Eggs: 5-16, usually 8-10; 65 mm.; olive-buff in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 29-35 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 59-65 days old.


SECRETS:
In the winter, this duck of forested lakes and rivers may appear in unexpected places; seeing one or more individuals on a small stream in a major metropolitan area, for example, is not unusual.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on rivers and lakes, usually in or near woodlands.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska, southern Yukon, southern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, central Quebec, and Newfoundland south to central California, central Nevada, central Arizona (and south into northern Mexico), and southwestern and northern New Mexico; further east, breeding range extends south to Montana, central Nebraska, southwestern South Dakota, the Great Lakes region, New York, northwestern New Jersey, Maine and Nova Scotia.  Generally winters in the Aleutian Islands and south-coastal Alaska; winter range also extends from British Columbia east to Newfoundland; and south to southern California, northern Mexico, and the northern portions of the Gulf states; and occasionally wintering birds reach northern Baja California, southern Texas, the Gulf coast, and northern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adult male lacks crest; shows bright red bill and white breast that contrast with dark green head.  Female has crest; reddish-brown color on head is brighter than in Red-breasted Merganser.  Female shows distinct border between white breast and reddish-brown neck; also shows a clearly defined white chin.

Nest Habits: Usually nests in tree cavities, but may also nest on the ground.  Nest is built of dead weeds, roots, leaves, and other vegetation; and is lined with down feathers.

Eggs: 6-17, usually 8-12; 64 mm.; buff white or ivory yellow in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28-35 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 65-85 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on lakes, lagoons, and mud flats in or near coastal waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds locally in the Yucatan Peninsula, the Greater Antilles, and in the southern Bahamas; non-breeding individuals wander to southern Florida and more widely throughout the Bahamas and the Antilles.  Considered to be casual or accidental along the Gulf coast and elsewhere in the United States and Canada, where many of the sightings may in fact be of escaped individuals (A.O.U. 1998).  

Field Marks: Large size, long pink legs, primaries and secondaries are black.  Bill is large and down-curved, with a black tip.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground, usually on mud flats, where nests are built from mud, leaves, roots, and twigs and may be up to 18 inches in height.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 1; 91 mm.; white in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28-32 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 75-77 days old.


SECRETS:
This species practices what is known as 'canopy feeding': when foraging, it extends its wings over the water to create pools of shadows in which it can more easily locate its prey. When feeding, it often lurches about in a haphazard manner.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in shallow coastal habitats such as brackish marshes and sandy beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in coastal habitats of Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast (Texas, Louisiana, and Alabama), and southern Florida.  Generally winters within its breeding range, extending northward to southwestern California and Georgia; rare at other inland locations in the southern united States (A.O.U. 1998).  

Field Marks: Dark, blue-gray body and wings.  Reddish head and neck; bill is black at tip, pink at base.  Note also that there is a white phase plumage.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, usually with other herons and egrets.  Nest is placed on the ground or up to 15-20 feet high in small tree or shrub; nest consists of a platform of small sticks, twigs, and grass.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 3-4; 51 mm.; pale bluish-green in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 25-26 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 45 days old.


SECRETS:
This species sometimes appears at inland locations in roosts with other herons and egrets that form during the post-breeding period; best found at this time by observing birds as they return to roost in the evening.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Usually found in coastal marshes, but also more locally further inland in swamps, lakes, and rivers (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in coastal habitats of Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, Florida, and the Atlantic coast north to Maine; also at inland locations in New Mexico, Texas, and Arkansas.  Generally winters within its breeding range along the coast; on the Atlantic coast, winters north to about New Jersey (A.O.U. 1998).  Post-breeding dispersal in late summer and early fall results in birds appearing at inland locations far north of their breeding range.

Field Marks: Head, most of neck, back, and wings generally a dark blue color.  White underneath, including foreneck.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, sometimes in association with other herons.  Nest is placed on the ground or, more typically, up to 15-30 feet high in shrub or tree; nest consists of a platform of sticks and twigs lined with grass and leaves.

Eggs: 3-7, usually 3-4; 44 mm.; pale bluish-green in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 21-25 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 35 days old.


SECRETS:
A common heron, this species sometimes forms large roosts during the post-breeding season, when it disperses widely to wetlands with available habitat; some post-breeding roosts may number several thousand birds.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in ponds, lakes, streams, swamps, marshes, and other fresh-water habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds locally, within an area extending from Mexico and Baja California north to southern California, north-central Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, southeastern Missouri, southern Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Alabama, southern Georgia, and the Atlantic coast north to Maine.  Generally winters in southwestern California, Mexico, along the Gulf coast, and along the Atlantic coast north to Virginia (A.O.U. 1998).  Post-breeding dispersal in late summer and early fall results in birds appearing at inland locations far north of their breeding range.

Field Marks: Overall dark, slate blue color in adult; during breeding season, reddish tint to head.  Bicolored bill.  Immatures are mostly white, but in second year take on a pied appearance during the molt to the adult plumage.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, usually in association with other herons.  Nest is placed up to 40 feet high in bush or tree and consists of a platform of sticks.

Eggs: 1-6, usually 2-5; 44 mm.; pale bluish-green in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 20-23 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 42-49 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshy areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Old World species.  Considered accidental in Quebec, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Virginia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Very similar to Snowy Egret; may sometimes be impossible to distinguish the two species outside of the breeding season.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on seacoasts, mudflats, and in estuaries (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Africa, India, and the Middle East.  Considered accidental in Massachusetts, where one individual was documented from 12 April to September 1983 (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to a Little Blue Heron, but with a heavier bill, a white throat, and yellow feet (as in Snowy Egret); dark and white morphs are known to exist, with the dark morph being more common.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Immature Snowy Egrets may sometimes be confused with immature Little Blue Heron; note that back of leg may appear yellowish-green in color; however, the rest of the leg is dark and the feet are yellow (like adults).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes, ponds, and lakes; also in lagoons and other shallow coastal habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds south of a line running from eastern Oregon and northern California through southeastern Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, northeastern Wisconsin, southern Ontario, and northwestern Ohio, to the Atlantic coast (north to Maine); breeding range extends south into Baja California and Mexico.  Generally winters from northern California, southwestern Arizona, the Gulf coast, and coastal South Carolina south throughout its breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).  Post-breeding dispersal in late summer and early fall results in birds appearing at inland locations far north of their breeding range.

Field Marks: Snowy white plumage, dark legs, black bill, and yellow feet (sometimes called golden slippers).  Smaller than Great Egret.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, usually in association with other herons and egrets.  Nest is placed on the ground or, more typically, up to 30 feet high in shrub or tree and consists of a platform of sticks lined with twigs and rushes.

Eggs: 1-6, usually 3-5; 43 mm.; pale bluish-green in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 20-24 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 30 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on mud flats, and along bays and estuaries (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Asian species.  Considered accidental in the Aleutian Islands, where one was recorded on 16 June 1974 (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Very similar to Snowy Egret, but with yellow bill, blue lores, and short head crest.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
The two alternate color phases of this species in Florida are sometimes known as the Great White Heron (all white form) and the Ward's or Wurdemann's Heron (includes form with all white head); these were once considered a separate species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh- and salt-water habitats, along lakes, rivers, ponds, lagoons, seacoasts, and on mudflats; occasionally forages in agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeds south of a line running from Nova Scotia through southern Quebec, northern Ontario, northern Manitoba, central Saskatchewan, and northern Alberta to southern British Columbia; breeding range on the Pacific coast also includes all of coastal British Columbia and the southern coast of Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).  Resident in the southern portion of its range; northern populations are migratory.

Field Marks: Our largest heron; generally grayish-blue in color.  White head contrasts with conspicuous black stripe above eye.  Two additional color phases are known: an all white form, which is found in southern Florida, and a form  which is grayish-blue in color but has an all white head and is found primarily in the Florida Keys.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, usually in association with other herons and egrets.  Nest is placed on the ground or, more typically, up to 130 feet high in tree and consists of a platform of sticks lined with twigs, mosses, pine needles, grasses, and leaves.

Eggs: 1-7, usually 3-5; 64 mm.; pale bluish-green in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 56-60 days old.


SECRETS:
What's in a name? The name of the Great Egret has changed several times in recent years; you may also know this species as the Common Egret or American Egret; in Old World literature it is also known as the Great White Heron!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh- and salt-water habitats, along lakes, rivers, streams, lagoons and estuaries, and on mudflats; occasionally forages in agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central Washington and southern Idaho south into California, Nevada, southwestern Arizona, Baja California, and Mexico; also from southwestern Manitoba, South Dakota, central Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, southern Ontario, southwestern Quebec, and New England south to Florida and the Gulf states, and west to eastern Colorado and southern New Mexico.  Winter range extends southward from a line running from coastal Oregon and northern California through central Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and Texas and the Gulf coast region to coastal Maryland; occasionally found further north in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large, all white heron, with black legs and large, yellowish bill.  At a distance, compare with Snowy Egret, which is smaller and has a black bill.

Nest Habits: Breeds singly or in colonies, usually in association with other herons and water birds.  Nest is usually placed up to 40 feet (and sometimes up to 90 feet) high in tree and consists of a platform of sticks and twigs with little or no lining.

Eggs: 1-6, usually 3; 57 mm.; pale blue or bluish-green in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 23-26 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 42-49 days old.


SECRETS:
An Old World species, the Cattle Egret apparently flew across the Atlantic Ocean, arriving in South America in the late 1800's, and first reported in North America in the early 1940's.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in actively grazed pastures and grasslands; also on lawns or along roadsides, and occasionally in marshes or flooded agricultural fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central California, eastern Oregon, southern Idaho, Utah, Colorado, North Dakota, the Great Lakes region, northern Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Maine south to Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and Florida.  Generally winters from Florida, the Gulf coast states, coastal Texas, and western Oregon and northern California south throughout its breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Of the three typically white egrets (Cattle, Snowy, and Great Egrets), the Cattle egret is the smallest.  In breeding season, note orangish feathers on crown, back, and lower neck; bill and leg color also more red or reddish-orange at this time of year.  During the non-breeding season, bill and legs are yellowish in color.  Compare also with immature Little Blue Heron.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, usually in association with other herons.  Nest is usually placed up to 12 feet high in small tree and consists of a platform of sticks, vines, and twigs.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 3-4; 48 mm.; pale bluish-green or bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 22-26 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 30 days old.


SECRETS:
The Green Heron, which has at times been called the Green-backed Heron, frequently draws the same question from beginning birders: Why is it called a 'green' heron?  Note that its back is more bluish-gray than green in color!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in swamps, ponds, rivers, marshes, or lakes, usually in or near forested areas.

Distribution: Breeding range includes Baja California, Mexico, and most of the United States; more locally distributed or absent in areas of the Rocky Mountains and Great Plains.  Also breeds in New Brunswick and in the extreme southern portions of the southern tier of Canadian provinces (i.e., British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec).  Generally winters from southern Arizona, southern Texas, the Gulf coast states, and South Carolina south throughout its breeding range; also winters locally on the west coast north to southwestern British Columbia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Except for the Least Bittern, this is our smallest heron.  Note white streak down center of throat and neck, reddish or chestnut color on sides & back of neck, and otherwise dark green (or bluish-gray) back and head.

Nest Habits: More likely to breed singly than other herons, but sometimes may breed in small colonies.  Nest may be placed up to 30 feet high in small tree or thicket, and consists of a platform of sticks that is lined with twigs, vines, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 2-4; 38 mm.; pale bluish-green or light green in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 21-25 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 34-35 days old.


SECRETS:
Of the two Night-Herons, the Yellow-crowned is usually seen in smaller numbers; most observations will be of 1-3 birds.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in mangroves, and in forested lagoons, swamps, or lakes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and Florida north to northeastern Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, southeastern Nebraska, southern and eastern Iowa, and southeastern Minnesota east to Massachusetts.  Winters in the southern portion of its breeding range (i.e., Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and along the Atlantic coast north to South Carolina) (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Crisp, dark gray plumage, with black head, white cheek patch behind eye, and pale-white crown.  Compare immature with immature Black-crowned Night-Heron; note comparatively longer legs in flight.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, usually in association with other herons.  Nest is placed up to 40 feet high in tree or shrub and is built of twigs and lined with rootlets, leaves, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 2-8, usually 4-5; 51 mm.; pale bluish-green in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 21-25 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 25 days old.


SECRETS:
Learn the distinctive 'wok!' call of this species; it will aid in its identification even when the calling bird can not be seen.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in mangroves, swamps and marshes, lakes, rivers, lagoons, and other wetland habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southwestern British Columbia, Washington, southern Idaho, Montana, east-central Alberta, Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, southern Quebec, and Nova Scotia south to Florida, the Gulf coast states, Baja California, and Mexico.  Generally winters from Mexico, Baja California, the Gulf coast, and Florida north to western Washington, southern Oregon, southern Nevada, northern Utah, Colorado, southern Texas, the southern Great Lakes region, and southern New England (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Light gray wings and neck, white underneath.  Black on crown and back.  Compare immature with immature Yellow-crowned Night-Heron; note comparatively shorter legs in flight.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nest is placed 15-30 feet (and at the extreme, up to 160 feet) high in tree and is built of twigs, reeds, and branches.

Eggs: 1-7, usually 3-5; 52 mm.; pale bluish-green in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 24-26 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 42-49 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes with tall emergent vegetation (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A breeding bird of Asia and the Australasian region; considered accidental in Alaska, where one was recorded on 17-22 May 1989 (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Mostly tan or yellowish-brown in color, with black crown and flight feathers.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Often difficult to see, but one trick you may use is to carefully scan the edge of emergent vegetation (where it meets the water), especially early in the morning; oftentimes, Least Bitterns will be in plain view!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes with an abundance of tall, emergent vegetation.

Distribution: Breeding range in the west extends from southern Oregon and California south to southern Arizona, Baja California, and western Mexico; in the east, it breeds from southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, southern Quebec, Maine, and New Brunswick south to south-central New Mexico, eastern Mexico, Texas, the Gulf coast states, and Florida.  Generally winters from southern California, southwestern Arizona, southern Texas, and Florida south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This is our smallest heron.  Dark outer wings show buffy wing patches; back and crown also dark.  Easily learnt call is similar to call of Black-billed Cuckoo.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed near or over water, in dense growth of cattails, bulrushes, or other available vegetation and consists of a platform of dried and living plant material.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 4-5; 31 mm.; bluish-white or greenish-white in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 19-20 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 25 days old.


SECRETS:
In flight, American Bittern can be told from Night-Herons by contrast of pale brown inner wings and dark brown outer wings.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water and brackish marshes, usually with tall, emergent vegetation (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Alaska, southern Mackenzie, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, Quebec, and Newfoundland south to California, New Mexico, Texas, Arkansas, Tennessee, western Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania, northeastern West Virginia, Maryland, and Virginia.  Generally winters from British Columbia, Washington, Utah, northern Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, the Gulf coast states, and southern New England south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Generally brown in color, with blackish-brown moustache on side of neck; paler below, with brown streaks  Call is loud and diagnostic.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed near or over water, in dense growth of cattails, grasses, sedges, or other available vegetation and is built from dried and living plant material such as sticks, grass, and sedges.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 4-5; 49 mm.; buff-brown to olive-buff in color.

Incubation: The female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28-29 days.


SECRETS:
Post-breeding wanderers in mid summer and fall may be found at locations far north of breeding range.  For example, over 100 birds have been found at one time in Tennessee.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in lagoons, marshes, mangroves, and shallow bodies of water, including flooded fields.

Distribution: Resident in Baja California, along both slopes of Mexico, along the Gulf coast from Texas to Florida, and along the Atlantic coast north to North Carolina.  Wanders far north of this range.

Field Marks: Breeding adult is all white (except for black tips to wings) with pink bill and legs.  Immature has pale gray head and neck, and dark wings; by second year it takes on a pied appearance as it begins molt to adult plumage.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nest is placed near or over water, up to 15 feet high in tree; and consists of a platform of sticks lined with leaves.

Eggs: 4-5, usually 2-3; 58 mm.; greenish-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs.  Incubation usually lasts about 21-23 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 28-35 days old.


SECRETS:
The Scarlet Ibis is closely related to, and sometimes hybridizes with, the White Ibis; in fact, some authorities consider these two ibis to be representatives of the same species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in mangroves, rivers, marshes, and coastal swamps & lagoons (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A South American species, considered accidental in Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall scarlet in color, with black wing tips.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
This species & the similar White-faced Ibis are often referred to as the 'dark ibises'; separating these 2 species in the field is often difficult & sometimes impossible. Adults are only in breeding plumage from early spring to mid-summer.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in lagoons, marshes, swamps, and shallow bodies of water, including lakes and flooded fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes Florida, and extends along the Gulf coast from Alabama to Louisiana, and also along the Atlantic coast north to Maine.  Generally winters in Florida and along the Gulf coast to Louisiana (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, overall chestnut color is glossed with dark green or purple.  Breeding birds are told from White-faced Ibis most readily by lack of white border to the base of bill which extends behind eye; also, note grayish lores and legs, and compare eye color and bill color.  Immatures and non-breeding season adults are difficult to separate from White-faced Ibis.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, usually in association with other herons.  Nest is placed on the ground or up to 10 feet high in tree or shrub over water; and consists of a platform of sticks that is occasionally lined with leaves.

Eggs: 1-5, usually 2-4; 52 mm.; bluish-green in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 21 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 28 days old.


SECRETS:
This species & the similar Glossy Ibis are often referred to as the 'dark ibises'; separating these 2 species in the field is often difficult & sometimes impossible. Adults are only in breeding plumage from early spring to mid-summer.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water marshes, swamps, lakes, and flooded fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from northern California, eastern Oregon, southern Idaho, Montana, and North Dakota south to Mexico, Texas, and southern Louisiana; generally winters from central California, southwestern Arizona, and coastal areas in Texas and Louisiana south into Mexico and Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, overall chestnut color is glossed with dark green or purple.  Breeding birds are told from Glossy Ibis most readily by white border to the base of bill which extends behind eye; also, note reddish lores and legs, and compare eye color and bill color.  Immatures and non-breeding season adults are difficult to separate from Glossy Ibis.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, usually in association with other herons.  Nest is placed in bulrushes or reeds (or up to 6 feet high in shrub or tree), and consists of a cup of dead aquatic vegetation that is lined with grasses.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 3-4; 52 mm.; greenish-blue in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 21-22 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 28 days old.


SECRETS:
Known to wander; has occurred as far north and west as California, Utah, and Colorado.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes, lagoons, swamps, ponds, and along rivers (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A resident of central and southern Florida, and coastal areas west to Texas and along both slopes of Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White neck and upper back, pinkish wings with reddish-pink scapulars; orange tail; large, spatulate bill.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, usually in association with other herons and water birds.  Nest is placed up to 15 feet high in shrub or tree, and consists of a bulky structure of sticks and twigs that is lined with leaves and bark.

Eggs: 1-5, usually 2-3; 65 mm.; white, with brown spots.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 22-23 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 35-42 days old.


SECRETS:
Known to wander, post-breeding dispersals appear far north and west of breeding range.  Has been observed in Montana and New Brunswick (A.O.U. 1998).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in lakes, ponds, and fresh- and salt-water marshes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A resident of Florida, and coastal areas west to Texas and along both slopes of Mexico; and coastal areas north to South Carolina.

Field Marks: Large, heavy, down-curved bill; bald head.  All white, with black tail and flight feathers; compare in flight with Whooping Crane.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nest is placed up to 80 feet or higher in tree, and consists of a platform of sticks.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 68 mm.; white or pale white in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28-32 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 55-60 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on ponds, freshwater lakes and marshes, and on seasonally wet grasslands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A resident of Mexico, Central America, and South America; occasionally seen in southern Texas.  Considered accidental in Oklahoma (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Tail and wings are all white; large, heavy, upturned bill (compare with Wood Stork).

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
At times, gregarious; the observation of several hundred individuals at one location should not be unexpected.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a wide variety of habitats, except in heavily wooded regions and open plains (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds south and east of a line extending from southern Arizona through northern Mexico, central Texas, Oklahoma, southeastern Missouri, and southern Illinois to eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey.  Migratory in the northern part of its range.

Field Marks: In flight, short tail and white patches at base of primary feathers on underside of wing distinguish this species from Turkey Vulture.  Featherless head is gray (compared to red in Turkey Vulture).

Nest Habits: Typically nests in the base of hollow trees or tree stumps, up to 15 feet above ground; or on floor of cave.  Generally no nest materials are used.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 76 mm.; grayish-green or bluish-white in color, splotched or spotted with brown.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 37-48 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 80-94 days old.


SECRETS:
In 1998, the vulture family was moved from the order Falconiformes and placed in the order Ciconiiformes (A.O.U. 1998).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open woodlands, or in open country near cliffs or forested areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds throughout Baja California, Mexico, and the United States, extending into southern Canada.  Migratory in the northern parts of its range; generally winters from Mexico, Baja California, the Gulf coast, and Florida north to northern California, Arizona, Texas, the Ohio River valley, and Maryland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In flight, comparatively long tail and two-toned coloration to underside of wings distinguish this species from Black Vulture.  Featherless head is red (compared to gray in Black Vulture).  When flying, wings are held in a slightly upward position, creating a 'V-shaped' or dihedral appearance.

Nest Habits: Typically nests in the base of hollow trees or tree stumps, or on cave floors or cliff ledges.  Generally no nest materials are used.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 71 mm.; dull white in color, splotched or spotted with brown.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 38-41 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 66-88 days old.


SECRETS:
An experimental population of California Condors has been introduced into the Grand Canyon area, beginning with releases in 1996.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in mountainous terrain; also in grasslands and oak savanna habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Formerly a resident of the coastal ranges of California, ranging from Monterey and San Benito Counties south to Ventura County, north to Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties, and east to the west slope of the Sierra Nevada and the Tehachapi Mountains.  Historically, had a larger range north to British Columbia (A.O.U. 1998).  Due to its endangered status, all remaining birds were removed from the wild and placed into captivity in 1987.  Following the success of captive breeding program, birds have been reintroduced into the wild in southern California, beginning with initial releases in 1992.

Field Marks: Very large; nine foot wingspan.  Underside of wing all dark with white wing linings.  Featherless head is orange in color.

Nest Habits: Typically nests on the floor of a cave or cliff ledge.  Generally no nest materials are used.

Eggs: 1; 110 mm.; greenish- or bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the egg and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 42-50 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 180 days old.  Parents may spend as long as 1.5 years to successfully produce one chick.


SECRETS:
The bottom surface of the Osprey's toes are covered with tiny protuberances or spicules which aid in its ability to catch and hold slippery fishes.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in estuaries and along rivers and lakes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska, northern Yukon, western and southern Mackenzie, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, central Quebec, and Newfoundland south to Baja California, northwestern Mexico, central Arizona, Texas, the Gulf coast, and Florida; occurs locally in much of range; most numerous along the coast, in the Great Lakes region, and in western part of continent.  Generally winters from central California, southern Arizona, southern Texas, the Gulf coast, and Florida south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White chest and belly; dark wrist patches (seen from below); white head with dark line through eye; dark brown back.

Nest Habits: May nest singly or in colonies.  Nest is built from a wide variety of materials and reused in subsequent years, over time becoming very large.  Nest may be placed in a live or dead tree, or on a platform erected specifically for Osprey's use; also may nest on other artificial structures, such as utility poles.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 61 mm.; whitish-pink or cinnamon in color, splotched or spotted with dark brown.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 32-43 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 48-59 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tropical deciduous and evergreen forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A resident species, occurring from northern Mexico and southern Texas south through Mexico and into South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large, hooked bill; barring on chest and belly; long, banded tail.  Sexual dimorphic: males are generally gray underneath while females are reddish-brown.

Nest Habits: Nest, built of dead twigs and branches, is usually placed up to 20' high in tree.

Eggs: 2-3; 45 mm.; white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Little information is known.


SECRETS:
Arguably the most elegant of the North American kites; your first sighting of this species will be forever indelibly imprinted upon your memory.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in lowland forested regions, also in open pine woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes Louisiana, southern Mississippi, southern Alabama, southern Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida; also breeds in southern Mexico south into Central and South America.  Migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White chest and belly; leading edge of underside of wing also white; black flight feathers.  Long, forked tail.

Nest Habits: Nest, built of dead twigs and lined with moss and lichens, is usually placed at top of tree, 60-100 or more feet above the ground.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 2; 47 mm.; white or cream-white in color, conspicuously blotched with brown.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 36-42 days old.


SECRETS:
Many people are confused over this species' name; originally named White-tailed Kite, it was once called Black-shouldered Kite, a name now reserved for closely related species in Africa and Eurasia.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a variety of open country habitats, such as savanna, abandoned fields, and marshes.

Distribution: Resident from southwestern Washington to Baja California (and also in southern Arizona, and south into Mexico); and from Kansas, southern Oklahoma, southern Louisiana, southwestern Mississippi, peninsular Florida, and southern Texas south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Silverish-gray overall, with mostly white tail and black shoulder patches.

Nest Habits: Nest, built of sticks and twigs and lined with grasses and other vegetation, is usually placed in tree, up to 60 feet above ground.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4-5; 42 mm.; white in color, conspicuously blotched with brown.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs; both sexes care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 30 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 35-40 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water lakes, ponds, and marshes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident of Florida, including the Lake Okeechobee region and the Everglades basin (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Long tail, white at base and dark at tip; male is black overall, while female is generally dark brown with white forehead and chin; immatures are paler below, with heavy, dark brown streakings.

Nest Habits: Often breeds in colonies.  Nest, built of sticks, is generally a flat structure that is placed on marsh grass or up to 15 feet high in shrub or tree.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 44 mm.; white in color, with conspicuous brown markings.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 26-30 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 23-28 days old.


SECRETS:
Occasionally found north of its known breeding range, especially during the spring or early summer.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forests, open woodlands, and prairies, usually in riparian habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern Arizona, New Mexico, southeastern Colorado, Kansas, southern Missouri, southern Illinois, southern Indiana, western Kentucky and Tennessee, northwestern Mississippi, the coastal plain of Georgia and Alabama, and South Carolina south to north-central Florida, the Gulf coast, and Texas.  Migrates to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Silverish gray overall, with dark primaries and pale secondary feathers; dark tail (compare with White-tailed Kite).

Nest Habits: Nest, built of sticks and lined with leaves and moss, is generally a flat structure that is placed up to 135 feet high in shrub or tree.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 1-2; 41 mm.; white or bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 31-32 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 34 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on seacoasts, and along rivers or large lakes, usually in rocky tundra, forest, desert, or mountain habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in western Greenland and on the Aleutian Islands; generally winters within its breeding range or further south (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Wedge-shaped white tail with dark undertail coverts; lacks bright white head feathers of adult Bald Eagle (however, compare immature plumages of these two species).

Nest Habits: Nest is built of sticks, grasses, seaweeds, and other materials, and reused in subsequent years.  Nest may be placed on a rocky ledge or up to 60 feet high in tree.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; dull white in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 35-45 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 70 days old.


SECRETS:
Although the Bald Eagle is widely known to feed on fish, in the winter, it frequently follows waterfowl in migration and feeds on sick or wounded ducks and geese; also feeds on the afterbirth of cattle on ranches.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along large lakes or man-made impoundments, rivers, swamps, and coastal areas.

Distribution: Generally does not breed in the Great Basin and most of the prairie and plains regions of North America.  Breeding range extends from Alaska, northern Yukon, northwestern and southern Mackenzie, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, central Quebec, and Newfoundland south to Baja California, central Arizona, New Mexico, central Texas, and the Gulf coast from southeastern Texas to Florida; considered a very localized breeder in the interior of North America.  Winter range generally extends south of a line that runs from southern Alaska and southern Canada southward throughout its breeding range.  Occurs widely throughout North America during migration (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adult, with white head and tail, is easily recognized.  Immature is dark brown overall, with varying amount of white in tail; note splotched pattern of white on underside of body and wings (compare with Golden Eagle).

Nest Habits: Nest is built of sticks, and is lined with mosses, needles, grasses, and other materials; reused in subsequent years and over time becomes very large.  Nest is usually placed in a live or dead tree, up to 180 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 76 mm.; pale white or bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Both parents incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 34-36 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 70-98 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along rivers and coast lines (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Asian species; considered accidental in Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In adult, leading edge of wing is white; note also the white thighs and wedge-shaped tail.  Immature also has wedge-shaped tail; also note the large, orange-yellow bill.  Compare immature with Bald Eagle.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Formerly called the Marsh Hawk.  Active at both dawn and dusk; as night falls, look for this species and/or the Short-eared Owl flying over grassy fields or marshes.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in grasslands, meadows, and marshes; also forages in cultivated fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska, Yukon, northwestern and southern Mackenzie, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, west-central Quebec, and Newfoundland south to northern Baja California, Arizona, New Mexico, central and eastern Texas, northwestern Arkansas, southern Illinois, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Virginia.  Generally winters from southern Alaska, southwestern Canada, Montana, South Dakota, the Great Lakes region, New York, and Massachusetts south throughout the U.S. and into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall color for adult males is gray, brown for adult females, and cinnamon-brown for immatures.  Long tail; wings are also long and have a slight crook to them; diagnostic in all plumages is the white rump.  In flight, wings are often held above the horizontal, especially when hunting over fields.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, where it builds a platform made from sticks, grasses, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 3-9, usually 5; 47 mm.; bluish-white in color, sometimes spotted with brown.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs; both sexes care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 31-32 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 30-35 days old.


SECRETS:
Characteristic 'flap-flap-glide, flap-flap-glide' flight pattern; readily seen during migration, especially in the fall during September and October.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in wooded areas and along woodland edge; in more open areas during migration.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska, Yukon, western and southern Mackenzie, Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, Ontario, central Quebec, and Newfoundland south to California, central Arizona, southern New Mexico, north-central Texas, northern portions of the Gulf states, South Carolina, and portions of Mexico; generally winters from southern Alaska, southern Canada, and Nova Scotia south throughout its breeding range into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Small size; short, rounded wings; long, narrow, square-cut tail.  The Sharp-shinned Hawk usually flies with the "wrists" of the wing held in a slightly forward position, causing the small head to barely project beyond the leading edge of the wing (compare with Cooper's Hawk).  Note that, as in most hawks, females are larger than males.  Although there is no true size overlap between the Accipiter species, in the field it is nonetheless difficult to use size as the sole criteria for distinguishing between a female Sharp-shinned Hawk and a male Cooper's Hawk.  While adults of all Accipiter species have bluish-gray (slightly duller and browner in females) upperparts and barred underparts, immature accipiters have brown upperparts and streaked underparts.  (See also: Kaufman, Kenn. 1990.  A field guide to advanced birding.  Houghton Mifflin Co., Houston.  299 pp.)

Nest Habits: Nest is built of sticks and twigs, and lined with strips of tree bark; it is placed up to 60-90 feet above the ground in a tree.

Eggs: 3-8, usually 4-5; 38 mm.; white or bluish-white in color, blotched or marked with brown.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs; both sexes care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 32-35 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 24-27 days old.


SECRETS:
Characteristic 'flap-flap-glide, flap-flap-glide' flight pattern; compare with Red-shouldered Hawk. Less common than Sharp-shinned Hawk, but still readily seen during migration, especially in the fall during September and October.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in wooded areas that are interspersed with open country; also frequents bird feeders in search of prey in urban or suburban areas during the winter.

Distribution: Breeds from southern Canada south to northern Baja California, northern Mexico, southern Texas, the Gulf states, and central Florida; generally winters from southwestern Canada, Montana, southern portions of the Great Lakes states, southern Ontario, New York, and New England south throughout the U.S. and into Mexico and Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Medium-sized Accipiter; rounded wings; long, narrow tail, usually rounded at tip.  In the Cooper's Hawk, the leading edge of the wing is held in more of a straight line, and the large head of this species projects noticeably beyond the leading edge of the wings (compare with Sharp-shinned Hawk).  Note that, as in most hawks, females are larger than males.  Although there is no true size overlap between the Accipiter species, in the field it is nonetheless difficult to use size as the sole criteria for distinguishing between a female Sharp-shinned Hawk and a male Cooper's Hawk.  While adults of all Accipiter species have bluish-gray (slightly duller and browner in females) upperparts and barred underparts, immature accipiters have brown upperparts and streaked underparts.  (See also: Kaufman, Kenn. 1990.  A field guide to advanced birding.  Houghton Mifflin Co., Houston.  299 pp.)

Nest Habits: Nest is built of sticks and twigs, and lined with strips of tree bark; it is placed up to 60 feet above the ground in a tree.

Eggs: 3-6, usually 4-5; 39 mm.; greenish-white or bluish-white in color, blotched or marked with brown.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 32-36 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 27-34 days old.


SECRETS:
An irruptive species, goshawks periodically disperse southwards in fall and winter when prey is scarce. At this time, birds may be found as far south as Texas, Florida, and the Gulf coast states.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in wooded areas and along woodland edge.

Distribution: Breeds in Alaska, throughout Canada (except for extreme northern portions), and south to California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains; also in the Great Lakes region east through Pennsylvania, northern New Jersey, and northwestern Connecticut; and in the Appalachian mountains south to West Virginia and western Maryland; also breeds in the highlands of Mexico.  Generally winters throughout its breeding range, but occasionally occurs much further south (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Largest of the Accipiters; in flight, the Northern Goshawk appears somewhat like the Sharp-shinned Hawk, but it is a noticeably larger bird and the tail is more likely to be fanned, giving the appearance of a buteo.  During migration, the more powerful and laborious flight style of the Northern Goshawk can often be seen.  Adult goshawks are readily identified by the distinctive facial patterns.  Breast color of adult birds is gray barring.  Immature goshawks show much heavier streaking on the underparts, where it extends onto the flanks, thighs, and undertail coverts.  Immature goshawks also have dark bands that display in a zig-zag pattern.  (See also: Kaufmann, Kenn. 1990.  A field guide to advanced birding.  Houghton Mifflin Co., Houston.  299 pp.)

Nest Habits: Nest is built of sticks and twigs and lined with strips of bark and other vegetation.  Nest is placed up to 60-75 feet above the ground in a tree.

Eggs: 2-5, usually 3-4; 59 mm.; bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 36-38 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 35-42 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in mangroves and swampy woodlands, usually near water.

Distribution: A resident of Mexico, Central America, and South America; considered accidental in southern Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note small head and bill; gray lores.  Legs are red and tail is long and dark with two white bands.  Body plumage is mostly slate-colored, with barring on lower belly.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tropical deciduous and evergreen forests, usually near water (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A resident of central Arizona, southwestern Utah, southern New Mexico, and western & southern Texas; range extends into Mexico and southwards into South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall dark plumage; short tail has one broad white tail band and another narrow white tail band at tip.  White patches at base of primaries show on underside of wing in flight.  Compare closely with Black Vulture in flight.

Nest Habits: Nest is made from sticks and other vegetation and lined with twigs and leaves.  Nest is placed up to 100 feet above the ground in a tree.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 1-2; 57 mm.; grayish-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 34 days.


SECRETS:
Harris' Hawks sometimes practice polyandry, where 1 female is mated with more than 1 male, & each male only mates with the 1 female. In this case, feeding of chicks at the nest is facilitated by the presence of the second male.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tropical deciduous forests, seasonally wet grasslands, and in dry lowland or montane scrub habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A resident of Mexico (also extending south to Central and South America), Baja California, and southern Arizona, southern New Mexico, and south-central Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Long tail, white at base with a wide black band and a narrow, white, terminal tail band; overall, blackish-brown in color, with cinnamon-colored thighs, wing linings, and scapulars.

Nest Habits: Nest consists of a platform of sticks, twigs, weeds, and roots which is lined with leaves and grasses; typically built in cactus or small tree, up to 30 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 1-5, usually 3-4; 54 mm.; white or bluish-white in color, sometimes with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 33-36 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 43-49 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tropical deciduous and evergreen forests and along forest edge (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern Arizona, and western and southern Texas south into Mexico, Central America, and South America; populations in the United States are migratory (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Upperparts solid gray; chest and belly paler, with gray barring.  Underside of wings mostly white, with gray barring; compare closely with Broad-winged Hawk.

Nest Habits: Nest is built of sticks and lined with leaves and twigs.  Nest is typically placed up to 60 feet above the ground in a tree; occasionally as high as 125 feet.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 51 mm.; white or bluish-white in color.

Incubation: Incubation usually lasts about 32 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 30 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open and semi-open habitats; also in tropical deciduous forests.

Distribution: A resident of Mexico, Central America, and South America; occasionally observed in Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish-brown above; long tail, with alternating dark and light bands.  Underparts are pale gray or off-white in color, with brown streakings on upper chest and cinnamon barring on lower chest and belly.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in the United States.


SECRETS:
Call, 'kee-yer', is repeated often, especially during courtship activities or when disturbed. Immatures can be mistaken for Red-tailed Hawks, but note that streaking extends from chin down to the belly. Flight is Accipiter-like.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Typically found in bottomland forests and swamps, occasionally in pine woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: In the west, breeding range extends from northern California south (but west of the Sierra Nevada range) to Baja California.  In the east, breeding range along the Atlantic coast extends from southern New Brunswick south to southern Florida; and west to southern Ontario, central Minnesota, eastern Nebraska, and Texas (includes the Gulf coast).  Winters throughout its breeding range in the west; in the east, from central Mexico, the Gulf coast, and Florida north to eastern Kansas, central Missouri, the Ohio River Valley, northwestern Pennsylvania, southern New York, and southern New England (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Reddish shoulder visible in adult birds; in flight, also note rufous wing linings and underparts, the color of which varies in intensity between eastern and western populations.  For a Buteo, this hawk has a comparatively Long tail.  Immatures are streaked on the underparts.

Nest Habits: Nest is built from sticks, twigs, weeds, mosses, lichens, and other vegetation, and is placed in a tree up to 60 feet or higher above the ground.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 3; 53 mm.; white or bluish-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 39-45 days old.


SECRETS:
Call, 'ta-tee', discloses this hawk's presence in forested areas or during migration; often migrates in 'kettles', which may sometimes number in the hundreds, with many thousands being seen at a single spot in one day.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous and mixed coniferous-deciduous woodlands and along woodland edge (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from central Manitoba and the Great Lakes region east to Nova Scotia and south to eastern Texas, the Gulf coast, and northern Florida; also breeds in Canada from east-central British Columbia east to central Saskatchewan.  Generally winters in Mexico, Central America, and South America; also in southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A small Buteo.  Brownish-gray above, with black and white bands in tail.  Underside of wings in flight appear mostly white, with a black border around edges.  Immatures are streaked underneath; compare with Red-shouldered Hawk.

Nest Habits: Nest is built from sticks and twigs, and is lined with lichens and leaves.  Nest is placed in a tree up to 50 feet or higher above the ground.

Eggs: 1-4, usually 2-3; 49 mm.; white or bluish-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28-32 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 35 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tropical deciduous and evergreen forests, or in pine-oak forests; usually near open areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A local resident of peninsular Florida; also breeds in Mexico, Central America, and South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Upperparts are black above; the undersides show either: (1) black wing linings, chest, and belly (dark phase), or (2) white wing linings, chest, and belly (light phase).  Also note short tail.

Nest Habits: Nest is built from sticks and twigs, and is lined with leaves.  Nest is placed in a tree up to 100 feet  above the ground.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 53 mm.; white or bluish-white in color, sometimes with brown markings.

Incubation: Little information is known.


SECRETS:
When it comes to migrating in large numbers, the Swainson's Hawk is the western counterpart to the Broad-winged Hawk.  Migrating kettles once numbered several thousand or more birds.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: A bird of open country.  Found in grassland and savanna habitats; also in agricultural fields with scattered trees (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes Yukon and Mackenzie, and extends from British Columbia east to southern Manitoba and south to southern California, Mexico, southern Texas, west-central Missouri and locally in western Illinois.  Generally winters in South America, but a small wintering population has recently been discovered in the central valley of California; also winters irregularly in southern Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Grayish-brown above.  Wings are narrow and more pointed than in most other Buteos.  Dark flight feathers and white wing linings display a diagnostic contrast on underside of wing of light phase adults (there is also a dark phase bird).  Lacks red tail of Red-tailed Hawk.  In flight, outstretched wings are often held above the  horizontal, similar to a Turkey Vulture.

Nest Habits: Nest is built from twigs, weeds, and grasses and is lined with bark, leaves, and feathers.  Nest is placed in a tree up to 100 feet or higher above the ground.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 2-3; 57 mm.; white or bluish-green/white, lightly marked with brown.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28-35 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 30 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas with scattered trees, such as savannas and large ranchlands.

Distribution: A resident of Mexico and southern Texas; breeding range extends into Central America and South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Tail is short and mostly white, with a black, subterminal band.  In flight, shape of wings and pattern of wing linings and flight feathers suggests Swainson's Hawk; white underneath; dark brown upperparts with reddish shoulder patch.

Nest Habits: Nest is built from twigs and is lined with grasses and leaves.  Nest is placed in a tree or bush up to 15 feet or more above the ground.

Eggs: 1-4, usually 2-3; 59 mm.; white or bluish-white, lightly marked with brown.

Incubation: Little information is known.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tropical deciduous and evergreen forests, pine-oak forests, and along forest edge, often near semi-open or open areas.

Distribution: A resident of Baja California and Mexico; breeding range extends north into southern California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas; and south into Central and South America.  Birds in the extreme northern part of range are migratory (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Blackish or slate-gray in color, with paler wing linings; wing linings show dark gray barring.  Tail is long, with alternating light and dark gray bands.  When soaring, wings are held above the horizontal (i.e., uptilted), as in Turkey Vulture; underside pattern of wing also suggests Turkey Vulture, which lacks obvious barring in wing linings.

Nest Habits: Nest is built from twigs, lined with leaves, and is typically placed in a tree up to 100 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 57 mm.; white or bluish-white in color, sometimes with yellowish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 35 days.


SECRETS:
Unlike the Red-shouldered Hawk, the Red-tailed Hawk prefers forest edge habitats for nesting; in fact, a mere row of trees separating two cultivated fields usually provides enough nesting habitat for a Red-tailed Hawk.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Occurs in a wide variety of habitats, ranging from open woodlands to grasslands and agricultural fields with scattered trees.

Distribution: A very widely distributed hawk, nesting from Alaska and Canada south to Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and Florida; northern populations are migratory.  Absent from northern Alaska and the northernmost areas of Canada.

Field Marks: Highly variable in plumage; colors range from mostly white (in rare albinistic form that is occasionally seen) and in the Krider's race of the Great Plains, to mostly dark in the dark phase birds of western North America.  In most plumages, clearly defined belly band and dark bar on leading edge of wing are good field marks; the red tail in adult birds is also diagnostic, but is absent from dark phase birds of the Harlan's race.  Call is often hear before birds are seen and is easily recognized; in fact, call is often heard in the background audio of many Hollywood movies.

Nest Habits: Nest is built from sticks and twigs, and is lined with bark and leaves.  Nest is placed in a tree up to 70 feet or higher above the ground.

Eggs: 1-5, usually 2-3; 60 mm.; white or bluish-white in color, sometimes with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 30-35 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 45-46 days old.


SECRETS:
Unlike many other hawks (which perch in trees or on utility poles while hunting), the Ferruginous Hawk may often perch on the ground while waiting for prey to come into view.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, often in dry habitats.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-central British Columbia east to southwestern Manitoba and south to eastern Oregon, Nevada, northern Arizona, New Mexico, and northern Texas.  Generally winters in the central and southern parts of its breeding range, extending south to Baja California and Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Reddish to rufous color to back and shoulders; white flash at base of primary feathers on upper side of wings.  Tail is mostly white with a diffuse reddish color.  On adult birds, also note the reddish feathering on legs (seen on birds flying overhead).  Two color phases; dark phase form is rare.

Nest Habits: Nest is built from sticks and twigs, and is lined with grasses and other materials.  Nest is placed in a tree up to 55 feet above the ground; nest may also be placed on a rock ledge of cliff face.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 2-4; 61 mm.; white or bluish-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28-33 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 44-48 days old.


SECRETS:
An irruptive species, Rough-legged Hawks are more numerous in winters when food shortages occur in the northern part of its range. Occasionally, may eat prey that it holds in its talons while soaring.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas such as grasslands and agricultural fields.  Breeds in tundra, or other barren habitats, usually near cliffs; also in open coniferous woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and northern Yukon east across the Arctic islands to northern Labrador; and south to northern and southeastern Mackenzie, northern Manitoba, extreme northern Ontario, southeastern Quebec, and Newfoundland.  Generally winters in southern Canada and throughout much of the United States; less common or absent in the southeastern U.S. (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In flight, note mostly white tail with a dark, subterminal band.  In light phase birds, also note solid black belly band and black wrist patches on underside of wings.  Dark phase birds are similar to dark phase Harlan's race of Red-tailed Hawk, but usually have less barring on flight feathers (causing the flight feathers to appear cleaner and brighter white as seen from below).  Known to hover in mid-air while hunting.

Nest Habits: Nest is built from sticks and other plant materials and is lined with grass and down feathers.  Nest is typically placed on a rock ledge, but may also be placed in a tree up to 30 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 2-7, clutch size dependent on food availability, with more eggs being laid in years with abundant food; 57 mm.; white or greenish-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28-31 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 39-43 days old.


SECRETS:
Golden Eagles have more of a West-to-East migration (as opposed to North-to-South). Note that birds are only found in much of the eastern U.S. only during the winter. Golden Eagles may attempt to take prey as large as a Wild Turkey!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, or in forested areas adjacent to open country; usually in or near mountainous or hilly terrains.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska east across Yukon, western and southern Mackenzie, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec to Labrador.  In the west, breeding range extends south to northern Baja California, the northern Mexico highlands, western Texas, and western Oklahoma & Kansas; in the east, breeding range extends locally south to Tennessee, Pennsylvania, and Maine.  Generally winters in south-central Alaska and throughout much of its breeding range, except the extreme northern portions of Canadian breeding area, where populations are migratory; birds become more numerous in winter in the eastern United States, but are considered rare in the extreme southeast portion of the lower 48 states and along the Gulf coast (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large, dark brown bird, with a golden sheen to neck and back of head, which is even visible in flight.  In flight, immatures show clean, crisply defined white patches at base of flight feathers and white band in tail (white on wings of immature Bald Eagle is splotched and never looks as 'tidy' as it does in Golden Eagle).  In adults, tail has faint light and dark bands, and lacks conspicuous white band of immature; adult birds also generally lack white wing patches seen in immature plumage.  In areas where Bald and Golden Eagles both occur, you may find that Golden Eagles tend to soar (i.e., less flapping of wings) more often than Bald Eagles.

Nest Habits: Nest is built from sticks, weeds, and roots, and is lined with mosses, lichens, down feathers, and other materials; may be reused in subsequent years, over time becoming very large.  Golden Eagles may nest on cliff ledges, or in trees (up to 100 feet above the ground), or on the ground.

Eggs: 1-4, usually 2; 75 mm.; white or pale-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 43-45 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 66-75 days old.


SECRETS:
This species may frequently be seen on the ground or on fence posts; its long legs allow it to walk with more agility than is seen in other hawks or falcons.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in dry, open areas, including lowland scrub and montane scrub habitats, and grasslands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident breeding range includes central and southern Florida, and extends from northern Baja California, southern Arizona, central Texas, and southwestern Louisiana south into Mexico, Central America, and South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large head and long legs immediately set this species apart from other members of the falcon family; mostly blackish-brown in color, with bright orange facial skin at base of bill and whitish neck and throat.

Nest Habits: Nest is built from sticks and twigs, and is usually placed in a tree, up to 80 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 2-3; 59 mm.; white or pinkish-white, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 30-60 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open and semi-open areas.

Distribution: A native of Europe, Asia, and Africa; occasionally seen in Alaska; considered accidental in Greenland and on the Pacific & Atlantic coasts of Canada and the lower 48 states (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to American Kestrel, but larger and with only one dark stripe on side of face (instead of two, as in American Kestrel).  Wings are red and tail is bluish-gray in adult male, which is opposite of the color pattern seen in adult male American Kestrel.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
This is perhaps the only North American falcon that regularly perches on telephone wires. In the southern part of its range, breeding pairs may raise two broods of young in one year.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas and semi-forested habitats; also in urban and suburban areas.

Distribution: Very widely distributed; breeds from Mexico, Baja California, and Florida north to western Alaska, southern Yukon, western Mackenzie, northern Alberta, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, southern Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia.  Birds in the northern half of breeding range are migratory.

Field Marks: Orangish tail.  Bluish wings characteristic of the male; female has orangish-brown wings.  Smallest of the North American falcons.  Often hovers in mid-air while hunting.  Call, which is frequently heard when birds are disturbed, is often imitated by Northern Mockingbird.

Nest Habits: Nests in cavities; may use cavity in tree, or hole in the side of a cliff, an artificial nest box specifically erected for it, or in cavities on the side of buildings (especially in cities).

Eggs: 3-7, usually 4-5; 35 mm.; white or pinkish-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 29-31 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 30-31 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in savanna, wet grassland, and other open country habitats, usually with scattered trees.

Distribution: A resident species of northern and central Mexico; breeding range extends south locally into Central and South America.  Formerly occurred in southeastern Arizona, southern New Mexico, and in west-central & southern Texas.  Extirpated from much of its former range in northern Mexico and the United States; attempts at reintroduction in southern Texas are being made (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White eye stripe; gray crown.  Note the black patches on the side of the bird, which tend to form a band across the lower chest; thighs are light cinnamon in color.

Nest Habits: Typically uses old, abandoned stick nests of ravens or other hawks; nest is usually in a small tree or yucca, up to 25 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 3; 45 mm.; white or pinkish-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes apparently incubate the eggs and care for the young.


SECRETS:
Merlins have increased in numbers in recent years. Once difficult to find during migration; now more frequently seen. Best time to see this species is in October, during the fall migration.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open coniferous woodlands, and open areas such as prairies, grasslands, and agricultural fields; in winter, may also frequent urban and suburban areas, where it preys on birds attracted to nearby bird feeders.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska east across northern Yukon, northwestern and central Mackenzie, southeastern Keewatin, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and northern Quebec, to Newfoundland; and south to British Columbia, central Washington, eastern Oregon, Idaho, western South Dakota, the Great Lakes region, southern Quebec, Nova Scotia, and Maine.  Winter range generally extends from south coastal Alaska and coastal British Columbia east across southern Canada and south into Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Several subspecies exist, which vary in overall plumage color; generally males are bluish-gray above, while females are dark brown.  Both sexes are streaked below, and have an indistinct moustache.  Narrow, pointed wings distinguish this species from the similar-sized Sharp-shinned Hawk.

Nest Habits: Frequently uses old, abandoned tree nests of other birds (e.g., crows, magpies, or other hawks), up to about 35 feet above the ground; may reline nest with bark and feathers.  Also nests in natural cavities, or even on the ground in a simple scrape.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 4-5; 40 mm.; white in color, with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 28-32 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 30-35 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested and semi-forested areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A native of Europe, Asia, and Africa; occasionally seen in the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Peregrine Falcon, but smaller and heavily streaked on the underparts; thighs and undertail coverts on adult birds are reddish-brown in color.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Nest locations can sometimes be found by driving or walking through suitable habitat and scanning cliff faces for signs of white wash, evidence of past years' nesting attempts.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, such as grasslands or prairies; in breeding season, usually near cliffs, where it nests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-central British Columbia east across southern Alberta, and southern Saskatchewan, to western North Dakota; and south to northern Baja California, southern Arizona, north-central Mexico, and western Texas (A.O.U. 1998).  Generally winters throughout the breeding range (perhaps less numerous in southern Canada), south throughout Baja California and Mexico.  Occasionally seen in migration and in winter in Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, and other mid-Western states.

Field Marks: Upperparts are grayish-brown; underparts are pale white with heavy spots or streaks.  In flight, black axillaries are diagnostic (compare with Peregrine Falcon).  Facial markings, including white eyebrow, are also different from Peregrine Falcon.

Nest Habits: Usually nests in a simple scrape in the dirt on a mountain or canyon cliff ledge; also may utilize the nests of other cliff-nesting species, such as ravens.

Eggs: 2-7, usually 4-5; 52 mm.; white or pinkish-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 29-33 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 35-42 days old.


SECRETS:
Because the Gyrfalcon seldom visits the U.S. & is uncommon to rare throughout its range, it is 1 of the most treasured & revered of all the falcons; any Gyrfalcon which appears in the U.S. is sure to draw tens, if not hundreds, of birders.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on the Arctic tundra, and in other open country habitats, including mountainous and coastal areas; sometimes in open coniferous forests.  Cliffs are used for nest sites (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska east across northern Yukon and the Arctic Islands to Greenland; and south to northwestern British Columbia, southern Yukon, northern Mackenzie, southern Keewatin, central Quebec, and northern Labrador.  Generally winters throughout the breeding range, and occasionally as far south as southern Canada and the extreme northern United States; on rare occasions, winters much further south (e.g., central California, Kansas, and Virginia) (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Our largest North American falcon, the Gyrfalcon has three color phases: gray, white, and dark.  In all plumages, note large size and long tail, which extends noticeably beyond wing tips in perched bird.  Compare with Peregrine Falcon.

Nest Habits: Nest usually consists of a scrape on a cliff ledge; occasionally lays eggs in old cliff or tree nests of ravens or hawks.

Eggs: 3-8, usually 4; 59 mm.; white or yellowish-white in color, with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 34-36 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 49-56 days old.


SECRETS:
There is perhaps no greater spectacle than that of witnessing the hunting activity of a Peregrine Falcon. Even a Mallard in mid-flight is no match for a Peregrine! Best time to see migrating Peregrines is late September to mid October.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open country habitats, including tundra, mountainous and coastal areas, and marshes; usually near water.  Also in open forested areas.  Cliffs are used for nest sites (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: The Peregrine Falcon has a nearly worldwide distribution, excluding Antarctica and most of the Pacific islands.  In North America, breeding range extends from Alaska east across northern Mackenzie and the Arctic islands to Labrador; and south to Baja California, northern Mexico, Arizona, New Mexico, and western Texas.  Also breeds in Greenland.  Generally winters in southern Alaska and coastal British Columbia; also in many areas of the central and southern United States, south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).  Formerly bred in the mid-west and eastern United States, but was extirpated east of the Mississippi River due to use of DDT and related pesticides.  Has been reintroduced to many eastern U.S. cities through a successful captive breeding and release program.

Field Marks: Crown and back of neck are black or dark brown, with an extension down side of face which suggests that this falcon wears a 'helmet'; this feature is lacking in the Merlin and Prairie Falcon.  Immatures are heavily streaked underneath; adults are barred underneath.  In flight, lacks black axillaries of Prairie Falcon.

Nest Habits: Nest usually consists of a scrape on a cliff ledge; on rare occasions, may use old tree nest of ravens or other raptors; in southern U.S., prior to being extirpated, occasionally known to nest in trees.  Tends to reuse the same nest site, year after year.

Eggs: 2-6, usually 3-4; 53 mm.; white, buff, or pinkish-cream in color, with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation usually lasts about 29-32 days, and young are able to fly when they are approximately 35-42 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in second growth habitats and brushy woodlands; also along forest edge.

Distribution: A resident of southern Texas and the lowlands of eastern Mexico, extending south to Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Upperparts are olive-gray in color; tail is long and dark green with a white tip.  Throat has a small patch of bare skin which is usually gray but becomes pink or rose-colored in breeding male.

Nest Habits: Nest is a loose platform of sticks and leaves, and is typically placed in a bush or tree, up to 35 feet above the ground.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 2-3; 58 mm.; pale white in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs; both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 25 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14-21 days old.


SECRETS:
Once it became known that this species was successfully established in the Ruby Mountains of NV, avid birders began making trips there to add it to their life list; but beware: this bird inhabits very inhospitable, mountainous terrain!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in areas of limited vegetation on steep, rocky slopes; and in alpine meadow habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Eurasian species; introduced (in 1963) and now established in the Ruby and East Humboldt mountains of northeastern Nevada (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note large size.  Light brown tail; light brown streakings on wings and lower back.  Otherwise, grayish-brown with darker barring and streaks on chest and lower belly; front of neck and head mostly white, with two reddish-brown crescent-shaped streaks on neck.

Nest Habits: As in most members of the Phasianidae, the Himalayan Snowcock likely nests on the ground; however, little information is available.


SECRETS:
Somewhat difficult to find in parts of its range; however, once located, it frequently allows good viewing opportunities as it is rather tame.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on dry, steep, rocky hillsides or mountain slopes; or in desert habitats on flat and open terrain (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A Eurasian species; introduced and now established in North America, where it is found locally from south-central British Columbia east across northern Idaho and Montana; and south to southern California, Nevada, northern Arizona, and western Colorado (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note red legs and bill; grayish-brown above, with a white throat outlined in black; sides and belly creamy-white in color with heavy black barring on sides.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses and feathers.

Eggs: 7-20, usually 9-16; 43 mm.; yellowish-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young (role of male in rearing of young not clearly known).  Incubation lasts approximately 22-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 7-10 days old.


SECRETS:
Hunters also refer to this species as Hungarian Partridge or, more simply, 'Huns'.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open country habitats, such as grasslands and agricultural fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A Eurasian species; introduced and now established in North America, where it is found locally from southern British Columbia east across central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, southern Ontario, and southwestern Quebec to Nova Scotia; and south to northern Nevada, northern Utah, northern Wyoming, northeastern Nebraska, northern Missouri, extreme northern Illinois, northern New York, and northern Vermont (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A grayish bird with a white belly; reddish brown upperparts and sides.  Reddish-brown also on face and throat, brighter on male and paler on female.  Male also has dark, reddish-brown belly patch.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses, weeds, and feathers.

Eggs: 5-22, usually 15-17; 37 mm.; olive in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs; both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-25 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 13-15 days old.


SECRETS:
Perhaps the only bird capable of giving one a heart attack: while concealed in cover, it may allow one to approach closely; then it explodes from underfoot with rustling wings and loud vocalization.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open country habitats, such as grasslands, abandoned fields, agricultural areas, meadows, and edges of roadsides and railroad right-of-ways.

Distribution: An Asian species; introduced and now widely established in North America, where it is found from southern British Columbia east across central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southwestern Manitoba, southern Ontario, and southwestern Quebec to Nova Scotia; and south to northern Baja California, Utah, New Mexico, Texas, northwestern Oklahoma, Kansas, northern Missouri, and central Illinois east to the Atlantic coast, extending south along the coast to North Carolina (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Brightly colored plumage, large size, and long tail of male is unmistakable.  Female is buffy-brown in color; where range overlaps with Sharp-tailed Grouse, female can be told from that species by the longer tail which lacks white coloration.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses and weeds.

Eggs: 6-15 or more, usually 10-12; 42 mm.; brownish-olive (or occasionally light blue) in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-25 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 12 days old.


SECRETS:
The vocalization of courting males includes a series of hoots that carries a great distance and resembles the sound of air being blown over the top of an open coke bottle.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous and mixed coniferous-deciduous woodlands, usually near open country habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident in western North America, where it is found from southeastern Alaska east to southwestern Mackenzie and southward in mountainous areas to northwestern California and the Sierra Nevada mountains, western Nevada, eastern Nevada, eastern Arizona, southwestern and north-central New Mexico, and western and central Colorado (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Males are dark gray or bluish-gray in color; note black tail, which has a gray terminal band.  Some males in the Rocky Mountains have a mostly black tail with a narrow, indistinct gray terminal band.  A white ring of feathers encircle patch of yellow or red skin on side of neck of male.  Females are typically mottled brown above, while lower breast and belly are uniformly gray in color; as in the male, tail is dark, with a gray terminal band.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses, pine needles, and leaves.

Eggs: 6-16, usually 7-10; 50 mm.; pinkish-buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 25-26 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 7-10 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open tundra habitats, less frequently in openings within boreal coniferous forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska east across northern Canada in the Arctic tundra and Arctic islands to Greenland, and south to central Mackenzie, southern Keewatin, northeastern Manitoba, northern Ontario, central Quebec, and Newfoundland.  In the west, breeding range extends south to east-central British Columbia and west-central Alberta (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note white wings and black tail; body plumage changes from darker, mottled coloration in summer to nearly all white in winter.  Males are generally mottled with a deep, reddish-brown color in breeding season; in all white winter plumage, it lacks black eye line seen in male Rock Ptarmigan.  Females are difficult to separate from female Rock Ptarmigan.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses and feathers.

Eggs: 5-14, usually 7; 43 mm.; bright red initially, over time becomes yellowish with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs; both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-22 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 10-12 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on barren and rocky slopes of the Arctic tundra, and in alpine areas; in winter, also in thickets and forest edge habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska east across northern Canada in the Arctic tundra and Arctic islands to Greenland, and south to central Mackenzie, central Keewatin, Southampton Island, northern Quebec, northern Labrador, and Newfoundland.  In the west, breeding range extends south to western British Columbia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note white wings and black tail; body plumage changes from darker, mottled coloration in summer to nearly all white in winter.  Males are generally mottled with a dark brown or grayish-brown color in breeding season; in all white winter plumage, black eye line separates it from Willow Ptarmigan.  Females are difficult to separate from female Willow Ptarmigan.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses, mosses, and feathers.

Eggs: 6-13, varies annually; 42 mm.; cinnamon or buff-colored, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 10-12 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in sparsely vegetated rocky areas of the alpine tundra (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska, northern Yukon, and southwestern Mackenzie south to southern British Columbia and the Cascade Mountains of Washington; locally distributed in the Rocky Mountains from southeastern British Columbia and southwestern Alberta south through central-southern Wyoming and Colorado to northern New Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note white wings and white tail; white tail separates it from other species of ptarmigans.  Body plumage changes from darker, mottled coloration in summer to all white in winter.  Breeding birds are generally mottled with a dark, blackish-brown color.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses, lichens, leaves, and feathers.

Eggs: 4-16, usually 3-9; 43 mm.; pinkish-buff in color, finely dotted or blotched with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 22-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 7-10 days old.


SECRETS:
During the breeding season, drumming males may be heard throughout the night, especially on a full moon.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in forested areas.

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends from Alaska and Yukon across southwestern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, southern Quebec, southern Labrador, and Prince Edward Island to Nova Scotia; and south to northwestern California, northeastern Oregon, Idaho, Utah, northwestern Colorado, northern Wyoming, southern portions of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, northern North Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, Indiana, Ohio, and south into the Appalachian Mountains to northern Georgia and western South Carolina (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark and light edges to feathers on wings and back create a mottled appearance.  Underparts are pale gray, with gray or rust-colored barring, especially on flanks.  Note that there are two color phases: red and gray.  Tail has a dark, subterminal band.  A slight crest adorns the head.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with leaves, pine needles, twigs, and feathers.

Eggs: 6-15, usually 9-12; 39 mm.; Buff-colored, sometimes with brown spots.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 10-12 days old.


SECRETS:
During the months of April and May, a visit to a Sage Grouse lek will yield an unforgettable experience: there is perhaps no other grouse or grouse-like bird that has a more impressive breeding display.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on open plains, and in rocky foothill, plateau, or mountain slope habitats where sagebrush occurs (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Locally distributed within its resident breeding range, which extends from Washington, southeastern Alberta, southwestern Saskatchewan, and southwestern North Dakota south to eastern California, Nevada, Utah, and western Colorado (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A very large grouse.  Tail feathers are long and pointed; note also large black patch on belly.  Compare with the Sharp-tailed Grouse, which is smaller in size and has white coloration in the tail.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses and leaves.

Eggs: 6-15, usually 6-9; 55 mm.; olive or yellowish in color, marked with small, brown spots.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 25-27 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 7-10 days old.


SECRETS:
In some parts of its range, it can be quite elusive; be patient, & be willing to revisit known occupied sites several times. Eventually, you will be rewarded with your first Spruce Grouse sighting! Rather tame; allows close approach.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coniferous forest habitats, especially pine and spruce forests (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends from Alaska and northern Yukon east across northern Mackenzie, southwestern Keewatin, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and northern Quebec to Labrador; and south to central British Columbia, west-central and central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, northern New York, and northern New England.  Also occurs in the United States in the following areas: western Montana, Idaho, northern Oregon, and Washington (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark tail with a brown terminal band; in some birds, brown terminal band may be absent.  In male, note black on throat and breast; females have dark barring and white spots on the undersides.  Also, note that there are two color phases (red and gray) for females.  Compare with Blue Grouse.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses, leaves, feathers, and twigs.

Eggs: 2-10, usually 4-7; 44 mm.; creamy-buff or pinkish-buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 17-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 10 days old.


SECRETS:
This sometimes hard-to-find bird is perhaps best looked for in April and throughout May, when males may be seen displaying for females on the breeding grounds or 'leks'.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in grasslands and oak savanna habitats, usually with scattered woodlands; also in brushy hills and dry areas with sagebrush (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident breeding range extends from Alaska and Yukon east across northwestern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, and northern Ontario to west-central Quebec; and south to eastern Washington, Idaho, northern Utah, Colorado, north-central Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, and the Great Lakes region (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: 'V'-shaped markings on the undersides separates this species from prairie chickens.  Also, note the tail, which is somewhat wedge-shaped and terminates with a narrow, extended tip; tail is white on the sides, a mark that allows one to distinguish this species from other, similarly-appearing grouse.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses, leaves, and feathers.

Eggs: 5-17, usually 10-14; 43 mm.; olive, brown, or dark buff in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 7-10 days old.


SECRETS:
The eastern form of the Greater Prairie-chicken was known as the Heath Hen.  Heath Hens are now extinct, but once inhabited brushy scrub oak and forested areas. Heath Hens were last seen in 1932.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tall grass prairie habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Very locally distributed from the Great Lakes region and North Dakota south to southeastern Wyoming, northeastern Colorado, Kansas, northeastern Oklahoma, Missouri, and southern Illinois; a disjunct population is also found in Texas (A.O.U. 1998).  Breeding range has been diminished significantly from its original size.

Field Marks: The dominant color pattern on the upperparts and underparts is alternate barring of dark brown and pale white or buff colors.  Tail is dark in males, and is barred in females.  Note also the pinnae, which are long feathers on the side of the neck that can be erected and displayed as ear-like structures.  Orange neck sacs of males are inflated as part of courtship display in the spring.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses, leaves, and feathers.

Eggs: 7-17, usually 10-12; 45 mm.; olive in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 7-10 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in short grass prairie habitats, usually with scattered shrubs and trees; also on adjacent agricultural lands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A locally distributed resident whose breeding range extends from southeastern Colorado to south-central Kansas; and south to southeastern New Mexico, western Oklahoma, and the northern Texas panhandle (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Greater Prairie-chicken; Lesser Prairie-chickens are slightly smaller and are not as heavily barred on the undersides.  Neck sac of male is reddish-orange in color.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses.

Eggs: 11-13; 42 mm.; white or yellowish-white in color, with pale brown or olive markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 22-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 7-10 days old.


SECRETS:
Like rails, male turkeys sometimes respond to loud noises by vocalizing. Hunters take advantage of this fact by imitating the call of the Barred Owl; in response, a male gobbler may vocalize, giving away its location to the hunter!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in deciduous or mixed deciduous-coniferous forests and open woodland habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Locally distributed within its breeding range, which extends from southern and eastern Wisconsin, southern Quebec, New York, southern Vermont, southern New Hampshire, and southwestern Maine south to Mexico, Texas, the Gulf coast, and Florida; and west to northern Arizona, New Mexico, Kansas, eastern Nebraska, southeastern South Dakota, and Iowa.  It has also been reintroduced in many areas of its former range north of Mexico, and has become established, at least locally, as far north as southern British Columbia, Washington, Idaho, southern Alberta, southern Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, and southeastern Minnesota (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: The Wild Turkey is the largest game bird in North America; note the bare skin on the head and upper neck.  Male has reddish wattles on the throat and foreneck.  Body feathers are dark and iridescent.  Male has a tuft of feathers on the breast, sometimes called a beard; this is occasionally also seen in females.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with leaves and grasses.

Eggs: 6-20, usually 10-12; 63 mm.; buff to white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 27-28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 6-10 days old.


SECRETS:
Compare head plumes with California Quail: note that in Mountain Quail there are two plumes that are swept backward; whereas in California Quail there is only one head plume which droops forward over the head.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pine-oak woodlands, pinyon-juniper woodlands, and in sagebrush, chaparral, and other brushy habitats with dense vegetation (A.O.U. 1998).  Usually found at elevations of 1500 feet or higher, but may descend to lower elevations for the winter.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southwestern British Columbia, western Washington, and central Idaho south through California and Nevada mountains to northern Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Long, slender head plumes, dark gray breast, and reddish brown throat outlined with white.  Flanks are reddish-brown in color with bright white bars.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with leaves and grasses.

Eggs: 6-15, usually 9-10; 35 mm.; cream to reddish-buff in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in scrub, grassland, montane, and second-growth habitats, usually in dry or arid conditions (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from eastern Arizona, northern New Mexico, east-central Colorado, and southwestern Kansas south through western Oklahoma to Texas and Mexico.

Field Marks: Overall, grayish or grayish-brown in color, with white streaks on flanks and a small crest of feathers that are tipped with white.  Dark edges to breast and back feathers create a scaly appearance, for which it is named.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with feathers and grasses.

Eggs: 9-16, usually 12-14; 32 mm.; white to cream in color, sometimes with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs (however, mostly by female) and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-23 days.


SECRETS:
In the winter, California Quail form large coveys, some of which may number more than 200 birds; many of these birds may be observed in the evening, just before going to roost.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in brushy and grassy habitats, including riparian woodlands, oak woodlands, chaparral/sagebrush, second-growth areas, and agricultural lands.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Baja California to southern Oregon, and east to western Nevada; has been introduced further north to southwestern British Columbia and east to Idaho and Utah (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Brown wings, teardrop-shaped head plume.  Body color generally grayish-brown, but varies in color throughout species' range.  Male has black throat outlined with white.  Underparts have a scaly appearance (compare with Gambel's Quail).

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with leaves and grasses.

Eggs: 12-16; 31 mm.; white to cream in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18-23 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 10 days old.


SECRETS:
Gambel's Quail occasionally lays its eggs in the old nests of Greater Roadrunner, thrashers, or Cactus Wrens, sometimes as high as 10 feet above the ground (Ehrlich, Dobkin, and Wheye 1988).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in desert habitats with brush or small trees; or in desert riparian woodlands; also in suburbs and agricultural lands adjacent to desert habitat (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern California, southern Nevada, southern Utah, western Colorado, and New Mexico south to northeastern Baja California, Mexico, and western Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Upperparts generally grayish in color; teardrop-shaped head plume.  Reddish-brown sides with white streaks; cream-colored belly.  Male has black patch on center of belly; and black throat outlined with white (compare with California Quail).

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with sticks, feathers, and grasses.

Eggs: 9-14, usually 10-12; 31 mm.; pale white to buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 10 days old.


SECRETS:
The call of the bobwhite, although heard often in April and May, may occasionally be heard well into September, October, or even November.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in grasslands, brushy areas, second-growth habitats and open woodlands, and in agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Wyoming south to eastern New Mexico and southern Mexico; and east to southern New York and Massachusetts, the Gulf coast, and Florida.  It has been introduced into Washington and Oregon (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Reddish-brown upperparts; underparts generally white with reddish-brown mottling on sides and black mottling on breast and belly.  Note white throat and eye stripe in male; these features are buff-colored in female.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses.

Eggs: 6-28 (and sometimes more), usually 12-16; 30 mm.; white to creamy or buff in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 6-7 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in grasslands, pine-oak forests, and in dry, montane scrub habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident from Mexico north to western Texas, southern New Mexico, and central Arizona.

Field Marks: Black-and-white head pattern of male is easily recognized; also note rounded, brown crest; sides are dark with white spots.  Female is similar in shape (note plump body and short tail), with a light brown, mottled appearance.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed on the ground and consists of a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses.

Eggs: 6-14, usually 10-12; 32 mm.; white to creamy in color.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 25-26 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 10 days old.


SECRETS:
This species and the Black Rail are arguably the most coveted rails in North America; in the mid-West and southeast regions of the U.S., your best opportunity to find Yellow Rails in migration is from late Sept. to early Oct.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in shallow marshes and meadows, as well as in dense grass fields or rice fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from northwestern Alberta and southern Mackenzie east across central Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and central Quebec to Maine; and south to Oregon, southern Alberta, southern Saskatchewan, North Dakota, and the Great Lakes region.  Winter range generally extends from coastal North Carolina south to Florida and west through the central and southern portions of the Gulf states to southeastern Texas.  In winter, it is also occasionally found in Arkansas, and from Oregon south to southern California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Small size; short bill (compare with Sora).  Upperparts are brownish-yellow with dark stripes and white edgings to feathers; in flight, diagnostic field mark is the white secondaries which show as conspicuous wing patches.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a cup which is woven from grasses and placed on bare ground or within a patch of grassy vegetation.  Nest is sometimes placed over water.

Eggs: 3-10, usually 8-9; 28 mm.; yellowish-buff in color, usually with reddish-brown markings at large end of egg.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs.  Incubation lasts approximately 16-18 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 35 days old.


SECRETS:
Perhaps the most elusive of all the rails. The song of this species is both easy to learn and also easy to overlook. However, once a Black Rail begins singing in earnest, its song is loud and, if you're observant, difficult to miss.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes and wet savanna habitat (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds locally at disjunct locations in the following states: California, Arizona, Kansas, Illinois, Ohio, Texas, and along the Atlantic coast from New York south to Florida.  Winter range is generally confined to coastal California, the Imperial and lower Colorado River valleys; the Gulf coast, and the Atlantic coast from Florida north to North Carolina (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Our smallest North American rail.  Adults are generally black overall, with tiny white dots on the upperparts and fine white barring on flanks.  Nape is reddish-brown in color.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground.  Nest is a cup which is woven from grasses, sedges, or other aquatic vegetation; and is placed on damp ground or a mat of dead grasses.

Eggs: 4-13, usually 6-10; 26 mm.; buffy-white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs.  Incubation lasts approximately 16-20 days.


SECRETS:
Where their range overlaps with King Rails, Clapper Rails are known to hybridize with King Rails.  Some authorities, in fact, consider King and Clapper Rails to be representatives of the same species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes (usually salt marshes, sometimes fresh-water marshes) and mangrove swamps (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Predominantly coastal in distribution.  Along the west coast it is resident from central California south to Baja California and the west coast of Mexico; it is also found in the Imperial and lower Colorado River valleys of southeastern California and south-central Arizona.  Along the Gulf coast, it is found along the east coast of Mexico, north to Texas and east to southern Florida; breeding range continues along the Atlantic coast from Florida north to Connecticut.  Some migration is observed in birds from the northernmost portion of breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare closely with King Rail.  Plumage is variable, and usually is not as rust-colored as the King Rail.  Clapper Rails tend to be grayish-brown in color, with dark streaking on upperparts, grayish cheeks, and white undertail coverts.  Breast is buff-colored, but becomes more rust-colored in the west, with some birds strongly resembling King Rails.  Wing coverts are olive-colored (compared with a tawny or rust color in King Rail).

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground.  Nest is a platform or cup which is woven from grasses and sedges and which is placed in a clump of marsh grass.

Eggs: 5-14, usually 7-11; 42 mm.; buff or olive-buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 20-23 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 63-70 days old.


SECRETS:
Despite its large size, the King Rail is notoriously difficult to see. Look for it at the peak of the spring migration in April or May, or on its wintering grounds. Compare call with Virginia Rail.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water marshes and rice fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from east-central South Dakota east through southern Ontario to Massachusetts; and south through eastern Wyoming, eastern Nebraska, and central Oklahoma, to western Texas and southern Florida; breeding range extends southward into Mexico.  Generally winters from Florida, southern Georgia, southern portions of the Gulf states, and southern Texas south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare closely with Clapper Rail.  Plumage is generally more rust-colored than seen in Clapper Rail.  Wing coverts are also rust colored (compared with olive-brown wing coverts of Clapper Rail).

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground.  Nest is a platform which is woven from grasses, sedges, and other aquatic vegetation, and which is placed in a clump of marsh grass.

Eggs: 6-15, usually 10-12; 41 mm.; pale buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 63 days old.


SECRETS:
When seen, Virginia Rails can be readily distinguished from King Rails; nevertheless, it is still important to learn the various calls of the Virginia Rail, as some of its vocalizations are similar to the King Rail.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes and wet fields with tall grass (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern British Columbia east across central Canada and the Great Lakes region to New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and southwestern Newfoundland; and south to northwestern Baja California, Arizona, New Mexico, west-central Texas, Kansas, Missouri, Illinois, northern Indiana, Ohio, and western Virginia.  In the southeast, also breeds south to northern Georgia, coastal North Carolina, and northern Alabama.  Winter range generally includes an area from southern British Columbia south to Baja California, and areas south of a line running from Utah east through central Texas and the Gulf coast states, and north to southern New England; occasionally birds are observed further north in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to a King Rail, but smaller and with a stronger gray color in the cheeks.  Wing coverts are a deep reddish color, and flanks have dark barring.  Bill is reddish in color and longer than bills of other rails with a similar body size.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground.  Nest is a shallow cup which is woven from grasses, sedges, and other aquatic vegetation, and which is placed in a clump or tussock of marsh plants.

Eggs: 5-13, usually 7-12; 32 mm.; pale white or buff in color, lightly marked with brown or gray.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18-20 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 25 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in meadows, grasslands, and agricultural grain fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: European species; occasionally seen along the Atlantic coast and on Baffin Island (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Bill is short and thick. Overall, generally buffy in color with conspicuous reddish wing patches.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
To elicit a call from this common rail, clap your hands loudly or throw a small pebble into the middle of a marsh or other suitable habitat; if a Sora is present, it will likely call!!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes with dense vegetation; also in flooded fields and rice fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Alaska and northwestern British Columbia east across southern Yukon, west-central and southwestern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, west-central Quebec, and Nova Scotia, to southwestern Newfoundland; and south to southern California, central Nevada, central Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Oklahoma, southwestern Tennessee, central Illinois, central Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, and Maryland.  Generally winters from the southern United States (north to southern Oregon along the Pacific coast) south into Mexico and Baja California; occasionally seen further north in winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Yellow or greenish-yellow bill is short and thick, and surrounded by a wash of black feathering at its base.  Black feathering extends onto upper breast.  Heavily barred on the flanks; white or pale white undertail coverts.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground.  Nest is a shallow cup which is woven from grasses, cattails, and other aquatic vegetation, and which is attached to marsh plants.  Nest is usually located over water.

Eggs: 6-18, usually 10-12; 32 mm.; brown or buff in color, with brown or gray markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18-20 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21-25 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pastures, agricultural lands, fresh-water marshes, and seasonally wet grasslands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident of Central and South America; considered accidental in Texas and Virginia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Upperparts are olive-brown in color.  Flanks are barred black and white; otherwise, underparts are gray.  Legs are red, as is base of bill.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water marshes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Resident of Cuba, the West Indies, Mexico, Central America, and South America; considered accidental in Texas and Pennsylvania (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Reddish-brown flight feathers; otherwise, body is barred, streaked, and/or spotted with black and white colors.  Bill is yellowish-green in color, somewhat long and decurved, and red at the base.  Legs are also reddish in color.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
The Purple Gallinule appears as a vagrant far north and west of its normal range; discovering this species at unusual locations is most likely to occur during the spring migration or early summer.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water marshes with dense, emergent vegetation.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Mexico and Central America north to eastern Texas, the Gulf coast states, and Florida; and further north along the Atlantic coast to Maryland and Delaware; in the western part of its breeding range, the Purple Gallinule also breeds locally north to southern Illinois and western Tennessee.  It is migratory throughout most of its U.S. distribution, and generally winters from southern Texas and Florida south throughout the remainder of its breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Bill is red, with a yellowish tip; shield on forehead is blue in color (compare with Common Moorhen).  Yellowish legs, white undertail coverts.  Diagnostic color pattern on upperparts (bronze-green) and underparts (purplish-blue).

Nest Habits: Nests over water.  Nest is a platform which is woven from grasses, sedges, and other aquatic vegetation, and which is attached to emergent marsh plants.

Eggs: 5-10, usually 6-8; 39 mm.; pinkish-buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 22-25 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 63 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water marshes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to South America; considered accidental in New York, where one was seen on 14 December 1986 (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Purple Gallinule, except that body feathers have a more purplish hue to them; and crown, back, and breast are brownish in color.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Winter-plumaged birds lack the reddish coloration in bill and red forehead shield; separate it from similar American Coot by lack of white color in bill and presence of white horizontal line on side of body.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on lakes, ponds, and fresh-water marshes, usually with dense emergent vegetation (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in the west from northern California, northern Utah, and northern New Mexico south to Baja California, Mexico, and Central America; and in the mid-west and east from Oklahoma and Kansas east across Nebraska, Iowa, southern Minnesota & Wisconsin, central Michigan, and southern Ontario to Nova Scotia south to the Gulf coast and Florida.  Generally winters throughout its breeding range in the west, and from South Carolina and the southern portions of the Gulf states south to Mexico and Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Red shield on forehead; bill is red with a yellow tip.  Generally dark, grayish-black in color on head, neck, and underparts; back is brownish.  Note the white horizontal line along side of body just below folded wing.

Nest Habits: May occasionally nest in colonies.  Usually nests over water.  Nest is a cup-like structure made from the stems of grasses, bulrushes, and other aquatic vegetation.

Eggs: 2-13, usually 5-8; 44 mm.; cinnamon to olive-buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 19-22 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 40-50 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on lakes, ponds, marshes, and other shallow, fresh-water habitats with emergent vegetation; in winter, it also frequents deeper lakes, brackish bays and estuaries, and rivers (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and India; considered accidental and/or sometimes occasionally seen in Alaska, Greenland, and Canada (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to American Coot, but somewhat darker overall; undertail coverts are all black.  Bill and forehead shield are white.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
The most numerous of the North American rails, American Coots may at times be abundant, especially in the winter when flocks of several thousand may be seen.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on lakes, ponds, marshes, and other shallow, fresh-water habitats with emergent vegetation; in winter, it also frequents deeper lakes, brackish bays and estuaries, and rivers (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from eastern Alaska and southern Yukon east across southern Mackenzie, northwestern Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, western Ontario, southwestern Quebec, and southern New Brunswick to Nova Scotia; and south (at least locally) to Baja California, Mexico, and Florida.  Winter range in the west generally extends southward from southeastern Alaska, British Columbia, Idaho, Colorado, and New Mexico; in the east, generally winters south of a line running from Kansas east across the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys and the Great Lakes region to southern New England (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall, blackish-gray in color, darkest on head and neck.  White bill with dark band near outer tip; forehead shield is white at the bottom and reddish-brown at the upper edge.  The sides of the undertail coverts are white (compare with Eurasian Coot).

Nest Habits: Usually nests over water.  Nest is a floating platform of dead stems which is attached to emergent vegetation.

Eggs: 2-22, usually 8-12; 49 mm.; pink to dark buff, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-25 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 49-56 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes and other open areas in or near water (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Eurasian species; considered accidental in Alaska, Alberta, Nebraska, and New Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Sandhill Crane, but has black on most of head and neck, and a broad white stripe extending back from the eye and down the neck.  Black primaries make trailing edge of wings appear dark.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
In flight, cranes extend their neck out straight, unlike herons which fly with neck in an 'S' shaped position. Sandhill Cranes migrate during the day, at which time they may be so high it is difficult to observe them with the naked eye.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open areas, usually near water or marsh habitats; in migration and winter, also in agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and northern Yukon east across northern Mackenzie, northern Keewatin, and the Arctic islands; and south locally to northeastern California, northern Nevada, northwestern Utah, western Colorado, Iowa, northern Illinois, southern Michigan, and northeastern Indiana east to western Quebec.  Winter range in the west generally extends southward from southern British Columbia, southern Washington, southern Arizona, New Mexico, and western Texas; in the east, generally winters south of a line running from Arkansas, the Gulf states and southern Georgia.  Winter range extends into Mexico and northern Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A large grayish, bird; about the size of a Great Blue Heron.  Note clump of tertial feathers that droop over tail -- a diagnostic feature of cranes.  Crown is reddish, bill is dark, thick, and straight.  Throat and cheek area are pale white.  Immatures do not have the red crown and have a brownish or reddish-brown hue to entire plumage.  Loud, rattling call can be heard from a great distance and is easily recognized as this species.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground or in shallow water; nest is a mound built of sticks, grasses, weeds, and other marsh plants.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 96 mm.; olive in color, with lavender and brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 28-32 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 65 days old.


SECRETS:
Whooping Cranes almost went extinct this century, & at one time there were only 15 birds remaining in the wild. A captive population & the placement of Whooping Crane eggs into nests of wild Sandhill Cranes have increased population size.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeding habitat typically consists of open, marshy coniferous woodlands with shallow lakes and ponds; in winter, also frequents fresh-water and brackish marshes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in the vicinity of Wood Buffalo National Park in Mackenzie, and in northern Alberta; primary winter range is the southeastern Texas coast (mostly in or near Aransas National Wildlife Refuge).  Formerly wintered and ranged over a much larger area; unsuccessfully introduced in Idaho (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Extremely large size; plumage mostly all white, except for black primaries, reddish crown, and reddish-black patch on side of face above and below the eye.  Immatures have reddish-brown feathers on head, neck, wings, and back.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground or in shallow water; nest is a shallow cup of grasses which is placed on a mound built of grasses, reeds, and other marsh plants.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 98 mm.; cream or olive-buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 29-31 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 80-90 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water marshes and swamps (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A resident of southeastern Georgia, Florida, the Bahamas, the Greater Antilles, and from Mexico south to South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark brown with pale white streaking.  Bill is long and slightly decurved.  Compare with immature night-herons and ibises.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground or in a shrub or small tree, up to 45 feet above the ground.  Nest consists of a platform or shallow cup of dried vegetation.

Eggs: 3-8, usually 4-8; 59 mm.; olive-buff or cream-buff, with gray and brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs.


SECRETS:
In this species, the traditional sex roles are reversed: nearly all incubation duties are performed by the male, and the male also cares for the young after hatching. Only the male has brood patches. Female is larger and defends the nest.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in fresh-water marshes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A resident of Mexico, Central America, and southern Texas; occasionally seen in Arizona and in western and central Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Yellow bill, with orangish-yellow forehead shield.  Dark greenish-brown overall, with yellow flight feathers.

Nest Habits: Nests over water; nest is a simple platform consisting of several leaves of cattails or water lettuce that is placed on top of a floating mat of aquatic vegetation.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 30 mm.; brown with black scrawls or markings.

Incubation: Male incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 22-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in bogs and moist woodlands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and India; occasionally observed in eastern North America and in Greenland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to American Woodcock, but is larger and is heavily barred on the breast and belly.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
The American Woodcock uses its 'cryptic coloration' to hide itself in surrounding vegetation; allows close approach, then bursts into flight with diagnostic twittering sound (made by its wings).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in moist woodlands, along wooded streams, and in adjacent openings (e.g., brushy fields or grassy meadows).

Distribution: Breeds throughout most of eastern North America, from southern Manitoba and central Ontario east to Nova Scotia and Newfoundland; and south to east-central Texas, the Gulf states, and Florida.  Breeding range extends west locally to central Colorado.  Generally winters in the southeastern U.S., from Oklahoma east across southern Missouri, Tennessee, and the northern portions of the Gulf states to southern New England; and south to Texas, the Gulf coast, and Florida  (A.O.U. 1998).  On rare occasions, it may be found north of its winter range in December and January, when it is most easily detected by listening for its 'peent' call on warm, calm nights.

Field Marks: Generally, mottled brown and black overall, thereby blending into surrounding vegetation (this is known as cryptic coloration).  Note orangish-buff underparts and black barring on crown and nape of neck.  Long bill, rounded wings (compare with pointed wings of the snipe).  When walking, sometimes bobs up and down like a waterthrush.  Nocturnal; generally not seen during the day, unless it is flushed from its roosting location.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression that is lined with leaves and twigs.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 38 mm.; buffy or cinnamon in color, with brown, gray, and purple markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 20-21 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 14 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in wet meadows and marshes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia and India; considered accidental in the western Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Common Snipe, except it has a shorter bill and a shorter tail.  Tail shows less white than in Common Snipe.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
When flushed, this bird emits a raspy 'snipe!' call; in flight, note the pointed wings (compare with the rounded wings of the American Woodcock.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in wet brushy, grassy, or agricultural fields, in meadows and marshes, and on mudflats.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and Yukon east across northwestern and central Mackenzie, southern Keewatin, Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec to Labrador; and south to southern California, Arizona, northern New Mexico, western Nebraska, northern Iowa, and northeastern Illinois east to northern New Jersey.  Generally winters from southeastern Alaska and southern British Columbia through eastern Washington, Idaho, and the central U.S. south to Baja California, Mexico, the Gulf coast, and Florida (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Long bill, similar to woodcocks and dowitchers.  Told from woodcocks (and dowitchers) by its striped crown and pointed wings (in flight); and from dowitchers by the lack of white triangle on the back.  Generally, plumage is mottled with gray, brown, black, and white colors, thereby allowing it to blend into surrounding vegetation or soil (this is known as cryptic coloration); sometimes allows close approach before flying.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression that is lined with grasses and sedges.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; 39 mm.; brownish to olive-buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18-20 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 19-20 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on arctic tundra, and in marshes and flooded fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe and Asia; considered accidental in Alaska, California, and Labrador (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Smallest of all snipes in the world; note the short tail, which is also wedge-shaped.  Central crown stripe, present in other snipes, is lacking in this species.  Back and scapulars are dark, with a gloss of green and purple colors.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes, wet meadows and grasslands, in flooded fields, and on beaches and mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, India, and Australia; considered casual or accidental along the Atlantic coast of North America.  Migrates regularly through the western Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In flight, note white wing linings and conspicuous white wing stripe (compare with Hudsonian Godwit); tail is predominantly black, with white uppertail coverts.  Reddish-brown color to head and neck, and barring on sides and flanks in breeding season are replaced by a grayish-white winter plumage.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Migration to wintering grounds in South America is a virtually nonstop flight of 2000-3000 miles.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on Arctic tundra, and in marshes, flooded fields, or on mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range is limited to local distribution in south-coastal Alaska and western Alaska; Mackenzie, northwestern British Columbia, and around Hudson Bay.  Generally winters in South America (A.O.U. 1998).  In migration, you can expect to see this bird most often in the interior of North America during the spring, and along the Atlantic coast during the fall.  Rare in the interior of western North America and along the west coast.

Field Marks: Long, two-toned bill.  Black tail, with white uppertail coverts.  In breeding plumage, male has reddish-brown underparts with black barring (duller and less noticeable in female).  In winter plumage, compare with Black-tailed Godwit; note dark wing linings and axillaries.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression that is lined with a few leaves.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; 55 mm.; olive-green or greenish-brown in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 22-25 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 30 days old.


SECRETS:
Birds discovered during the fall migration on the Pacific coast tend to be present at the same location for an extended period of time, providing one with many opportunities to see this rare migrant.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra habitats, on tidal mudflats, or in marshes or flooded fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in Alaska; also in Europe and Asia; generally winters in Europe, Asia, Africa, India, and Australia (A.O.U. 1998).  In migration, it is occasionally seen on the Pacific coast of North America as far south as Baja California; it is even more rare along the Atlantic coast in migration.

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, male is reddish-brown below on breast and throughout underparts, with no barring (compare with Black-tailed Godwit); female is duller.  In winter plumage, compare with Marbled Godwit -- note Bar-tailed's lack of cinnamon tones to wing linings, upper wings, and tail.  Note also short legs and barred, black-and-white tail.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression that is lined with mosses, lichens, or leaves.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 4; 55 mm.; green or brown in color, with scattered brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 20-21 days.


SECRETS:
The Marbled Godwit is a common shorebird on the west coast in winter, and it is easy to assume that all godwits look alike. Carefully scan migrant godwit flocks, especially in the fall, to see if the rare Bar-tailed Godwit may be present.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in grasslands, marshes, ponds, and tundra habitats; also along tidal mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from east-central Alberta, south-central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, and western Ontario south to Montana, North Dakota, and northeastern South Dakota; also breeds in Alaska on the Alaska Peninsula.  Generally winters from coastal Washington and western Nevada south to Baja California; and from the Gulf coast and coastal South Carolina south to Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Largest of the 4 species of North American godwits; long, two-toned, upcurved bill is characteristic of most godwits and distinguishes them from other, similar-sized shorebirds.  Note the tawny or cinnamon wash throughout wings, body, and tail, including wing linings (as seen in flight).  Black mottling on back gives the Marbled Godwit its name.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground in grassy prairie habitats; nest is a simple scrape or depression in the grass.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 57 mm.; green-brown or olive-brown in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-23 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21 days old.


SECRETS:
The Eskimo Curlew was once an abundant bird, with reports of millions of birds being seen in migration; its decline is attributed to over-hunting. Hunted both in the spring and fall; also hunted on its wintering grounds in South America.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra habitats, and in grasslands, pastures, or plowed fields; may also frequent marshes or mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Currently thought to be extinct or near extinction.  Former breeding range included northwestern Mackenzie west to western Alaska; migrated to South America for the winter (A.O.U. 1998).  In migration, it was usually encountered in the interior of North America or along the Atlantic coast.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in meadows and grassy areas within subalpine forest (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia, Australia, and New Zealand; considered accidental in California and Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A very small curlew, in fact this is the world's smallest curlew species.  Note short, slightly decurved bill.  Also note dark eye line.  Overall, it has a mottled brownish-white plumage, with a buff wash throughout.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Whimbrels are fairly common shorebirds and, in migration, may form flocks of several hundred birds or more. They are quite vocal in flight.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in Arctic tundra habitats; also frequents beaches, coast lines, mudflats, marshes, flooded fields, and pastures (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes Alaska, Yukon, and northwestern Mackenzie; also breeds along the western side of Hudson Bay.  Generally winters in coastal areas; in the west, winter range extends from southern British Columbia south to Baja California and Mexico; also winters in coastal areas from South Carolina, Florida, and the Gulf coast south to Mexico, Central America, and South America.  In migration, most often seen along the coast, more rare inland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: The striped crown is the definitive mark for this species.  Also note decurved bill, and smaller size compared to Long-billed Curlew.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression located on top of a mound of mosses or grass.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; 58 mm.; olive in color, with brown and lavender markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 27-28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 35-42 days old.


SECRETS:
After the El Nino winter of 1997-1998, Bristle-thighed Curlews made an unprecedented appearance along the Pacific coast of the lower 48 states; no fewer than 15 birds were seen in WA, OR, and CA during the spring migration!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra habitats, grassy fields, and on mudflats or beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in western Alaska and winters on islands in the Pacific Ocean; in migration, may occur in spring in south-coastal Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Whimbrel, but note orangish rump and tail.  The bristly feathers on the thighs and flanks are difficult to see in most field conditions.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression located in lichen and lined with moss.

Eggs: 4; 65 mm.; olive or buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Little information is known.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in bogs, marshes, wet fields, or on mudflats or beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia; considered accidental in Ontario (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Resembles Whimbrel, but note lack of crown stripes; also, note dowitcher-like, diamond-shaped white patch on lower back and rump.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in grasslands and marshes; also frequents beaches, mudflats, or wet meadows (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and India; considered accidental in Greenland and along the Atlantic coast of North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar in size to Long-billed Curlew; note long, decurved bill, white back and rump, and extensive amount of white on underwing (as seen in flight).  Crown is not striped.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
The length of the Long-billed Curlew's bill ranges from 4.4 to 8.6 inches; at its largest length, the bill may comprise about 44% of the bird's total body length (bill tip to tail tip).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: In breeding season, found in prairies and grassy areas; also in sagebrush.  In the winter, also frequents coast lines, beaches, marshes, and flooded fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-central British Columbia and southern Alberta east across southern Saskatchewan to southern Manitoba; and south to east-central California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and northern Texas; at times, locally distributed within this range.  Generally winters from Washington south to Baja California and Mexico; and from coastal South Carolina, the southern portions of Louisiana and Alabama, and southern Texas south to eastern Mexico and Central America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: The largest North American shorebird; note extremely long bill, and cinnamon or buffy appearance throughout plumage. Crown is not striped as in Whimbrel; in flight, cinnamon appearance is also apparent on the wing linings.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression located in grassy areas and lined with grasses and weeds.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 65 mm.; white to buff, or olive in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 27-30 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 32-45 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in moorlands and meadows; also frequents mudflats or beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia and Australia; considered accidental in British Columbia, and seen regularly during migration in the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Long-billed Curlew; note this species overall brownish appearance, with dark brown streaking on breast and flanks.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
To find these birds, scan suitable habitat carefully for this species: sometimes it may be hidden among grasses; or can be mistaken for a meadowlark.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in grassland habitats, including dry meadows and pastures, or even airport strips.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and Yukon east across southwestern Mackenzie, Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, and Maine to Prince Edward Island; and south to eastern Washington, northeastern Oregon, Idaho, Wyoming, northeastern Colorado, northern Oklahoma, north-central Texas, southern Illinois, and northern Kentucky east to Maryland. Generally winters in South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Head is pigeon-shaped, neck is comparatively long.  Generally brown in color; underparts white with brown streaking on neck, breast, and flanks; legs are yellowish in color.  Primaries are darker than rest of wing.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression lined with grasses.

Eggs: 4; 45 mm.; cream to pinkish-buff in color, with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-27 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 30-31 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes, ponds, meadows, or on mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and India; considered accidental throughout most of North America, but seen regularly during fall migration in the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Long bill, slightly decurved at tip; note that the base of the lower mandible is reddish in color.  Adult in breeding plumage is mostly black in color; winter plumage exhibits a more pale-gray appearance, with orangish-legs.  White, wedge-shaped patch is visible on lower back of flying birds; compare in flight with dowitchers.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes, meadows, or on shorelines or mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and India; considered accidental in Newfoundland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall, brownish-gray in appearance.  Note orange-red legs, streaked underparts, and two-toned bill: reddish-orange at base and black at tip.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes, meadows, or on shorelines or mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, India, and Australia; considered accidental in the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Overall, gray or brownish-gray upperparts and white underparts.  Note long legs, which are yellowish in breeding season, and olive-green in non-breeding individuals.  In breeding season, streaked on breast and flanks.  In flight, note dark wings and white on back, rump, and tail.  Compare with Common Greenshank.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes, meadows, or on shorelines or mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, India, and Australia; considered accidental in Newfoundland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare closely to Greater Yellowlegs; note less heavily streaked breast and flanks and greenish legs.  In flight, white, dowitcher-like wedge extends from rump to the middle of back; this feature is lacking in Greater Yellowlegs, which only has a white rump.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
When seen side by side, the two species of yellowlegs are usually easy to distinguish.  However, when only one bird is in view, focus on bill length as an additional aid: in Greater Yellowlegs, bill is nearly 3 times the length of the head.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along shorelines and mudflats of ponds, lakes, rivers, and estuaries; also in marshes, wet meadows, and flooded agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southeastern Alaska and British Columbia east across central Canada to Newfoundland and Nova Scotia.  Generally winters along the Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf coasts south to Baja California and Mexico.  Winter range also includes Idaho, Utah, and central New Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).  Occasionally some individuals are found north of wintering range in the interior United States.

Field Marks: Compare closely to Lesser Yellowlegs; note larger size and longer bill.  In breeding plumage, more heavily streaked below than on Lesser Yellowlegs.  Bill is usually slightly upturned.  When heard, the 3-5 note call is louder than Lesser Yellowlegs' 1-3 note call.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression in mossy hummock, usually near water.

Eggs: 4; 49 mm.; buff in color, with dark brown or gray markings.

Incubation: Both sexes likely incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18-20 days old.


SECRETS:
When seen side by side, the 2 species of yellowlegs are usually easy to distinguish. However, when only one bird is in view, focus on bill length as an additional aid: in Lesser Yellowlegs, bill is about only 2 times the length of the head.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along shorelines and mudflats of ponds, lakes, rivers, and estuaries; also in marshes, wet meadows, and flooded agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska east and south across northern and central Canada to northern Ontario and extreme western Quebec.  Generally winters along the Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf coasts south to Baja California and Mexico.  Occasionally some individuals are found north of wintering range in the interior United States.

Field Marks: Compare closely to Greater Yellowlegs; note smaller size and shorter bill (which is never upturned).  In breeding plumage, less heavily streaked below than on Greater Yellowlegs.  When heard, the 1-3 note call is not as loud as Greater Yellowlegs' 3-5 note call.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with leaves or grass.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; 42 mm.; buff or yellowish-gray in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes likely incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 22-23 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18-20 days old.


SECRETS:
During spring migration, the Solitary Sandpiper is 1 of the early shorebird migrants: it returns from Central & S. American wintering grounds as early as mid March. Likewise, by late June or early July, the first fall migrants are seen.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along shorelines and mudflats of bogs, ponds, lakes, and streams; also in marshes and flooded agricultural fields.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and Yukon east across western and southern Mackenzie, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and Quebec to southern Labrador; and south to central British Columbia, south-central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, and northern Minnesota.  Generally winters from northern Mexico and the Bahamas south to Central and South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A brown and white shorebird.  Outer edges to tail are barred black-and-white, the pattern of which can often be seen on standing bird.  Note also the greenish leg color and white eye ring.  In flight, pale white rump is divided in half by dark bar which runs from lower back to tip of tail.

Nest Habits: Nests in coniferous trees (sometimes in deciduous trees), up to 40 feet above the ground; typically uses old cup-shaped nest of American Robin, Cedar Waxwing or other song birds.

Eggs: 4-5, usually 4; 36 mm.; green or cream-buff in color, with dark brown or violet markings.

Incubation: Incubation lasts approximately 23-24 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in swamps, marshes, wet meadows, flooded fields, or on mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and India; occasionally seen in Alaska and the western Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare closely to Solitary Sandpiper: Green Sandpiper has a white rump and white uppertail coverts; tail is not as extensively barred as in Solitary Sandpiper.  Also resembles Wood Sandpiper, which is more heavily spotted on upperparts and has more barring in tail.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along edges of ponds, lakes, and streams, or in wet meadows (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in Europe and Asia; winters primarily in Africa, India, the Mediterranean region, and Australia.  Also known to breed in the western and central Aleutian Islands; casual or accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare closely with Solitary Sandpiper and Green Sandpiper.  This species has more spotting on upperparts than Green Sandpiper, and it also has more barring in tail; however, it also has a white rump patch, which separates it from Solitary Sandpiper.  Pale wing linings are lighter in color than that which is found on Solitary or Green Sandpiper.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground in a scrape or depression; or in a tree in an old, cup-like nest of a thrush or other song bird.  Nest is lined with grass.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; 38 mm.; light green, creamy-white, or buff in color, with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 22-23 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28-30 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on mudflats, in meadows or marshes, along edges of ponds and lakes, or in wet grassy areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, India, and Australia; regularly migrates through the western Aleutian Islands.  Considered casual or accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Bill is long and noticeably upturned; note orange-yellow legs, grayish upperparts, white or pale white breast and belly, and dark and light patterns on upper wing surface.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, India, and Australia; regularly migrates through the western Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Greenish legs.  Bill is nearly all dark.  Compare closely with Spotted Sandpiper; bobs up and down like that species.  In breeding plumage, however, underparts of adult are white and breast is streaked with gray (spots on breast and belly are lacking).

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
In flight, wings are held stiffly, as if they were made out of wood. When walking along shoreline, Spotted Sandpipers bob up and down. These two field marks help identify this bird, even at a great distance.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along shorelines or on mudflats of streams, rivers, lakes, and ponds; in migration and in winter, often frequents rocky shorelines with exposed stones or pebbles.

Distribution: Breeds throughout most of North America, except for extreme northern Canada and the southeastern United States.  Generally winters from South Carolina, Florida, the Gulf coast, southern New Mexico, southern Arizona, and southwestern British Columbia south to Baja California, Mexico, Central America, and South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, large black spots on breast, sides, and belly easily identify this species.  Note also the change in bill color and leg color from breeding to winter plumage.  Underparts are white or grayish-white in winter plumage; compare with Common Sandpiper.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple saucer- or cup-shaped depression which is lined with grasses, moss, or weeds.

Eggs: 1-4, usually 4; 32 mm.; brown, green or pinkish-buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Male incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 20-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 17-21 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along streams, lakes, and ponds; also frequents rocky or sandy coast lines/beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia and Australia; regularly migrates through the Aleutian Islands; considered casual or accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare closely with Wandering Tattler.  Grey-tailed Tattler is not as boldly or extensively barred on underparts in breeding season; eyebrow tends to be more prominent.  However, best separated from Wandering Tattler by voice.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
In addition to wintering population along the Pacific coast, Wandering Tattlers also migrate across the Pacific Ocean to winter on islands near the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds along streams and lakes in rocky or scrub habitats of mountainous or hilly areas; also in damp meadows.  In migration and in winter, also found along rocky or sandy coastlines/beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in mountainous areas of Alaska, Yukon, and British Columbia; generally winters along the Pacific coast from northern California south to Mexico and South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A grayish shorebird; solid gray above; pale white underneath with heavy barring on breast, sides, and belly in breeding season.  Legs greenish-yellow in color.  In winter plumage, breast and sides are plain gray and belly is white.  Compare closely with Grey-tailed Tattler.  Bobs up and down while walking.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with roots and leaves.

Eggs: 4; 43 mm.; green in color, and heavily blotched with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-25 days.


SECRETS:
The Willet is like two different birds: at rest, it is generally dull gray in appearance; but in flight, its wings display a remarkable black-and-white flash. Fairly common, concentrations of birds may exceed 1000 in number.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on beaches, mudflats, in meadows and marshes, and along edges of lakes and ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: In the west, breeding range extends from eastern Oregon, southern Idaho, central Alberta, southern Saskatchewan, and southern Manitoba south to northeastern and east-central California, western Nevada, Utah, northern Colorado, western and northern Nebraska, and South Dakota.  In the east, it breeds along the Atlantic coast from New Brunswick and Nova Scotia south to Florida, and along the Gulf coast west and south to Texas and Mexico.  Generally winters in coastal areas; in the west from central California south to Baja California and Mexico; and in the east from Virginia southward through the breeding range to Mexico.  In migration, more common in coastal areas than the interior of the continent (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A large, stocky, brownish-gray shorebird.  Note heavy bill, which is thicker and more stout than bill of Greater Yellowlegs.  Legs are gray in color.  In winter, body plumage becomes entirely gray in color.  Quite vocal; once its call is learned, it can be identified at great distances.  In flight, wings flash black and white.

Nest Habits: Somewhat colonial.  Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape or depression placed in the sand or in grassy areas.  Nest is lined with grasses or sedges.

Eggs: 4-5, usually 4; 53 mm.; olive in color, with heavy brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 22-29 days.


SECRETS:
The Ruddy Turnstone has a wide distribution throughout the world, occurring on every continent except Antarctica. In non-breeding season, it is usually found along coastal areas, but may also be seen at inland locations during migration.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra habitats, usually near water; also on beaches, along rocky coastlines, and in other areas with limited vegetation (e.g., wet dirt fields or on bare shorelines of lakes) (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds on the Arctic tundra, from northern Alaska east across the Arctic islands to Greenland.  Generally winters along the Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific coasts, south to Baja California and Mexico.

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, black, white, and chestnut color pattern immediately identify this species.  In winter, breast pattern is retained, but chestnut colors are replaced with varying shades of brown and gray.  Note orange legs.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with leaves, mosses, and grasses.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; 41 mm.; green-olive in color, with black markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 22-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 19-21 days old.


SECRETS:
Although closely related to the Ruddy Turnstone, it is not as widespread in distribution as that species; however, on the Pacific coast, Black Turnstones typically outnumber Ruddy Turnstones.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in coastal salt-grass tundra habitats; also frequents rocky seacoasts and jetties, and coastal beaches or mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in coastal areas of western and southern Alaska; generally winters along the Pacific coast from southern Alaska south to Baja California and Mexico.

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, mostly black on upperparts (with white spotting); lower breast and belly entirely white.  In winter, black on head, neck, and breast is replaced with brownish-black wash.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is sometimes lined with grass.

Eggs: 4; 41 mm.; olive-yellow in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-22 days.


SECRETS:
Identification of dowitchers must be done with great care! Note plumage coloration, feather edging, extent of barring on tail, amount of spotting on foreneck, breast and belly color pattern, barring on sides, and any call notes.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in wet meadows, or in grassy tundra or muskeg habitats; also frequents coastal beaches, or mudflats and shallow waters of lakes, ponds, and estuaries (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in southern Alaska; breeding range also extends from southern Yukon and southern Mackenzie south to northwestern British Columbia, central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, and northeastern Manitoba; breeding in the east extends from central Quebec south to the north coast of Ontario and south-central Quebec.  Generally winters in coastal areas, from central Washington south to Baja California and Mexico; and also from coastal South Carolina, Florida, and the Gulf coast south to eastern Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Often difficult to separate from Long-billed Dowitcher; up front, it must be recognized that some dowitchers will go unidentified.  First start by determining the age of the bird; once age is determined, concentrate on the appropriate field marks that separate the two species for that age group.  Age classes include breeding-plumaged adults, winter plumaged adults, and juvenal or first-fall plumage.

In general, back, wing covert, and scapular feathers of juvenal Short-billed Dowitchers are broadly edged with reddish-buff color and have internal markings; face and neck tend to be buffy in color.  Breast on winter plumaged birds tend to be paler gray than in Long-billed Dowitcher.  Breeding birds often have white on belly and back feathers are broadly edged with a rust or orange-red color.  Remember that bill length can not be used to separate the two species of dowitchers.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with leaves, twigs, and grasses.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; 41 mm.; buff-green or brown in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and the male cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in wet meadows, or in grassy tundra or muskeg habitats; also frequents mudflats and shallow waters of lakes, ponds, marshes, and flooded fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in coastal areas of western and northern Alaska, northern Yukon, and northwestern Mackenzie; generally winters from south coastal British Columbia, southern New Mexico, central Texas, the Gulf coast, and southern Florida south to Baja California and Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Often difficult to separate from Short-billed Dowitcher; up front, it must be recognized that some dowitchers will go unidentified.  First start by determining the age of the bird; once age is determined, concentrate on the appropriate field marks that separate the two species for that age group.  Age classes include breeding-plumaged adults, winter plumaged adults, and juvenal or first-fall plumage.

In general, back, wing covert, and scapular feathers of juvenal Long-billed Dowitchers are narrowly edged with reddish-buff color and have no internal markings; face and neck tend to be uniformly gray in color.  Breast on winter plumaged birds tend to be darker gray than in Short-billed Dowitcher.  Breeding birds are often reddish-orange on the underparts from chin to undertail coverts; back feathers are black with narrow edgings of rust, making the bird appear darker when compared with Short-billed Dowitcher.  Call is a woodpecker-like 'keek'.  Remember that bill length can not be used to separate the two species of dowitchers.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with leaves and grasses.

Eggs: 4; 42 mm.; brown in color, with brown and gray markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 20-21 days.


SECRETS:
Although most persons are familiar with the Surfbird by way of seeing it near the unsettled surf of the Pacific Ocean, most people do not know that this species actually breeds above the timberline on rocky mountain tundra areas of Alaska.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in rocky tundra habitats, and in rocky areas along seacoasts and jetties (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in Alaska, and in western and northern Yukon.  Generally winters from south coastal Alaska south along the Pacific coast to Baja California and Mexico.

Field Marks: A chunky grayish, or brownish-gray shorebird.  Note pale and dark areas on bill; in breeding plumage, scapulars are reddish-brown with black markings, and breast is more heavily streaked.  Legs are yellowish-green.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with leaves, lichens, or mosses.

Eggs: 4; 44 mm.; buff in color, with dark, red-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in rocky tundra habitats; also frequents rocky seacoasts, sandy beaches, and nearby mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia, India, and Australia; occasionally seen in migration in the Aleutian Islands; considered accidental in Oregon (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Bill is black and straight; generally a dark, brownish-gray shorebird with black streaking on breast and flanks in breeding plumage (also compare this plumage with Surfbird and Rock Sandpiper); note narrow band of chestnut feathers on back of breeding adult.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Although Red Knots winter on the Atlantic, Pacific, & Gulf coasts, they are not often seen in the interior of N. America during migration; this is because they migrate primarily along the Atlantic & Pacific coasts, and in the Great Lakes.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra, usually near water; also frequents coastal beaches, and mudflats of ponds, lakes, and seacoasts (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes northern Alaska, Greenland, and the Arctic islands.  Generally winters in coastal areas: on the Pacific coast from Washington south to Baja California and Mexico; and along the Atlantic coast (Massachusetts) and Gulf coast south to eastern Mexico.

Field Marks: Breeding birds are brownish-black above, and reddish-brown or chestnut below; in winter, they are grayer in appearance and appear dowitcher-like, but with a shorter bill and gray barring on white rump (as seen in flight).

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with leaves and lichens.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; 41 mm.; buff-olive in color, and spotted or blotched with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-23 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 18-20 days old.


SECRETS:
In winter, Sanderlings are occasionally mistaken for one of the 'peep' sandpipers; note the Sanderling's larger size, paler appearance, and (in flight) conspicuous white wing stripe.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra, usually near water; also frequents sandy beaches, and (less often) mudflats of lakes or rivers (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes northern Alaska, northern Mackenzie, northern Keewatin, northwest coast of Hudson Bay, the Arctic islands, and Greenland.  Generally winters in coastal areas: on the Pacific coast from Alaska south to Baja California and Mexico; and along the Atlantic coast (Massachusetts) and Gulf coast south to eastern Mexico.

Field Marks: Dark bill; in breeding plumage, note reddish-brown wash to back, breast, flanks, and head.  In winter, white underparts and pale gray upperparts give it a very bright appearance (it is the palest winter sandpiper).  Black shoulder patch in winter birds is variable in size.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with leaves and mosses.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; 36 mm.; green-olive or olive-brown in color, with brown and black markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 24-31 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 17 days old.


SECRETS:
Although it is a common migrant in the east and mid-West, Semipalmated Sandpipers are rare along the Pacific coast, where they should be identified with great care; compare closely with Western Sandpiper.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra, usually near water; also frequents marshes, meadows, beaches, and mudflats of lakes and ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and northern Yukon east across northern Mackenzie and the Arctic islands to northern Labrador; and south to northeastern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and northern Quebec.  Generally winters from southern Florida and the Bahamas south to Central & South America (A.O.U. 1998); sightings of this species elsewhere in North America during the winter should be thoroughly documented.

Field Marks: Typical peep; note black legs, small size, absence of spotting or streaks on flanks, and overall brownish-gray appearance.  Note that similarly-appearing Western Sandpiper has more reddish coloration on head and scapulars.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with leaves and grasses.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 4; 30 mm.; olive or yellowish-buff in color, with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18-22 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 19 days old.


SECRETS:
The western counterpart to the Semipalmated Sandpiper. Note that when adults begin flying south for the winter in July, they still show remnants of streaking on flanks that is present in the spring.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra, usually near water; also frequents marshes, beaches, flooded fields, and mudflats of lakes and ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in coastal western and northern Alaska; generally winters along the Pacific coast (from Washington south), Atlantic coast (from North Carolina south), and Gulf coast south to Baja California and Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Typical peep; note black legs, presence of spotting or streaks on flanks, and reddish-orange coloration to scapulars, crown, and cheek in breeding plumaged birds; even juvenile birds show rufous color on back and scapulars.

Nest Habits: Occasionally nests in small colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with leaves and grasses.

Eggs: 4; 31 mm.; cream to light brown in color, and spotted with reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 20-22 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 19-21 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra habitats; also frequents marshes, mudflats, and flooded fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and India; considered a rare migrant in northern Alaska and the Aleutian Islands; casual or accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Rufous coloration on face, cheeks, neck, and upper breast are more prominent than that which is seen in Western or Semipalmated Sandpipers.  Compare also with Least Sandpiper: note dark legs and less prominent streaking on breast.  Juvenile birds resemble Rufous-necked Stints, but center of feathers on wing coverts is predominantly black.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
This species is sometimes called Rufous-necked Stint or Rufous-necked Sandpiper.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in tundra habitats; also frequents beaches, marshes, and tidal mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in northern and western Alaska; also breeds in Europe and Asia; winters in Asia, India, and the Australian region.  Occasionally seen in migration along the Pacific coast south of breeding range; casual or accidental further inland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, rufous-colored head, throat, and neck readily identify this species; however, note that in some birds the reddish coloration may be pale or indistinct.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, usually in a cavity built within patch of moss, grass, or other vegetation alongside a stream.

Eggs: 4; yellow with rufous or cinnamon markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra and taiga habitats; also frequents marshes, mudflats, shorelines of lakes and ponds, and flooded fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and India.  Occasionally seen in migration on the Aleutian Islands.  Considered to be accidental in British Columbia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Least and Baird's Sandpipers; note greenish-yellow legs, buffy-brown breast band, and white outer tail feathers.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra habitats; also frequents mudflats, shorelines of lakes and ponds, and sandy beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia, India, and Australia; considered to be a regular migrant through the Aleutian Islands and Alaska; accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Dark crown and forehead contrast with nape and side of neck; legs yellowish in color.  Compare with Least Sandpiper; note dark legs, darker forehead, more conspicuous eyebrow (which broadens behind eye), and less prominent streaking on breast.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
A common shorebird, the Least Sandpiper can be found during the spring migration well into late May and sometimes in early June; strange as it may seem, fall migrants first appear as early as late June!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra; also frequents marshes, mudflats, flooded fields, shorelines of ponds and lakes, and coastal beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and Yukon east across northern Mackenzie, southern Keewatin, and Hudson Bay to northern Quebec, Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia; and south to northwestern British Columbia, northern Saskatchewan, northeastern Manitoba, and northern Ontario.  Generally winters from Washington, southern Nevada, Utah, central New Mexico, central Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, the Gulf states, and North Carolina south to Baja California and Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).  In winter, small numbers of individuals are found north of known range, especially when mild weather conditions persist into January.

Field Marks: Overall, a brownish-gray shorebird.  Smallest of the five common peeps, and the only one with yellowish legs.  In breeding plumage, streaking on breast is prominent, and ends abruptly about mid-way down the breast; in winter plumage, this streaking is replaced by a gray-brown breast band.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with leaves and grasses and placed within a tuft of moss or grassy vegetation.

Eggs: 4; 29 mm.; buff in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 19-23 days.


SECRETS:
Spring migration is mostly through interior of North America; in the fall, most birds migrate in eastern North America and along Atlantic coast; rare in western North America at any season.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra, usually near water; also frequents marshes, mudflats, flooded fields, and shorelines of lakes and ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in the Arctic tundra, from northern Alaska east to extreme northern Canada, including northwestern Hudson Bay and the Arctic islands.  Winters in South America.

Field Marks: Note streaking on sides and flanks; compare with Western Sandpiper.  The White-rumped Sandpiper is one of the largest peeps and its most diagnostic field mark is, of course, the white rump.  Note also long wings.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is placed in a tuft of vegetation and lined with leaves.

Eggs: 4; 34 mm.; pale green in color, and heavily spotted with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-22 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16-17 days old.


SECRETS:
Less common than other peeps.  Although it migrates through the interior of North America, in most of the continent, the Baird's Sandpiper is most frequently encountered in the fall, when the migration is more widespread.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra; also frequents marshes, mudflats, lakes, and ponds, often in the drier, grassier areas away from water.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from western and northern Alaska and northern Yukon east to the Arctic islands and northwestern Greenland; and south to northwestern British Columbia, northern Mackenzie, northern Keewatin, and Southampton Island.  Winters in South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: One of the largest peeps.  Generally a grayish-brown shorebird, with buffy-gray wash or fine streaking across breast and (in immatures) scaled appearance to upper back.  Could be mistaken for a Least Sandpiper, but note larger size and black legs; could also be mistaken for a Pectoral Sandpiper, but again note dark legs.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression in a tuft of vegetation and lined with leaves, lichens, or grass.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 4; 33 mm.; pink to olive-buff in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 20-22 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16-20 days old.


SECRETS:
A common migrant in the east and mid-West, the Pectoral Sandpiper is strikingly absent on the west coast, where it is most often encountered as a fall migrant.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra; also frequents marshes, mudflats, meadows, flooded fields, and shorelines of lakes and ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from western and northern Alaska and northern Yukon east to the Arctic islands and northern Mackenzie; and south to central Mackenzie, southeastern Keewatin, and northeastern Ontario.  Winters in South America, and occasionally as far north as the Gulf coast and Florida (A.O.U. 1998).  Occasionally some individuals are found north of known winter range into the middle of the winter season.

Field Marks: Note yellowish or brownish legs, and streaking across breast which abruptly ends about halfway down the breast.  Belly and lower breast are white in color.  Large size separates it from the peeps, including the Least Sandpiper.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression in a tuft of vegetation and lined with leaves and grass.

Eggs: 4; 37 mm.; white to pale buff-olive in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-23 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra habitats; also frequents marshes, shorelines of lakes and ponds, wet grassy areas, mudflats, and flooded fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia and Australia.  Considered a regular migrant in western Alaska.  Becomes more rare as a migrant along the Pacific coast south to southern California; and becomes even more rare at other inland locations across the continent (A.O.U. 1998).  Usually encountered as a fall migrant.

Field Marks: Compare with Pectoral Sandpiper; note 'V'-shaped streaking along flanks of adults.  Most birds encountered, however, are immatures; when comparing to Pectoral Sandpiper, note white eyebrow (which is more conspicuous and broadens more behind the eye) and buffy wash across the upper breast.  Pattern of streaking on most immatures is confined mostly to upper breast and sides.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra; also frequents rocky seacoasts, jetties, and shorelines (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in Greenland and in the Arctic islands south to Southampton Island and James Bay.  Winters in coastal areas from southern New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland south to Virginia, and occasionally along the shoreline of the Great Lakes region or the Gulf coast west to southern Texas.  Considered casual or accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White eye-ring.  Legs are yellow or orange in color.  Note 2-toned bill: yellow or orange at base and dark at tip.  Belly is white.  Breast and sides are heavily streaked with grayish-brown in breeding plumage; in winter, this is replaced by a more uniform slate-gray wash across breast and flanks.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is placed within a clump of vegetation and lined with grasses.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; 37 mm.; light olive or brown in color, with brown and black markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and male cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-22 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21 days old.


SECRETS:
This species and the Purple Sandpiper are very similar in appearance and widely regarded as being conspecific (i.e., the same species). In winter plumage it is probably impossible to distinguish between these two species except by range.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra, in coastal or montane areas; also frequents rocky seacoasts and jetties (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in western Alaska and along the Aleutian Islands; winters from the Aleutian Islands south along the Pacific coast to central California.

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, the Rock Sandpiper has a black patch on lower breast, suggestive of Dunlin; note also streaking on flanks and fine streaking on upper breast.  Feathers on crown and back are dark, with chestnut edgings; bill is slightly decurved at tip, paler at base.  Winter plumage strongly resembles Purple Sandpiper; compare also with Surfbird.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is placed within moss or lichens and may be lined with grass and leaves.

Eggs: 4; 39 mm.; olive in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 20 days.


SECRETS:
In the winter and during migration, Dunlins may oftentimes be found in large numbers, with some flocks numbering several hundred or more individuals.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra; also frequents shorelines of lakes and ponds, mudflats, flooded fields, marshes, and sandy beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from northern, western, and south-coastal Alaska east to northern Mackenzie, northeastern Keewatin, and Baffin Island; and south to Southampton Island, northeastern Manitoba, and the south coast of Hudson Bay.  Generally winters in coastal areas, from southeastern Alaska south to Baja California and Mexico; and in the east from the New England area south to Florida and along the Gulf coast (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, the rufous coloration to the back, decurved bill, and black belly patch are diagnostic.  In winter, upperparts are dark gray, breast is pale gray, and belly is white in color; note that bill is shorter than in dowitchers; Dunlins are also larger than any of the North American peeps.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is placed within a clump of vegetation and lined with leaves and lichens.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 4; 34 mm.; green to olive-buff in color, with gray and reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-22 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 19-21 days old.


SECRETS:
The first North American nesting record for this species was documented in June 1962, near Barrow, Alaska.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra; also frequents mudflats, marshes, and beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Africa, Asia, India, and Australia.  It is a rare breeder in northern Alaska (near Barrow) (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Long, decurved bill.  Bill shape and reddish or chestnut color in breeding plumage readily identifies this species.  Becomes predominantly gray in color in winter plumage (compare with Dunlin); in flight, note the white rump.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with mosses, lichens, and leaves.

Eggs: 4; yellow to greenish-white in color, with black or brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs.  Incubation lasts approximately 21 days.


SECRETS:
East of the Rocky Mountains, this species is a fairly common migrant, especially in the mid-West. Along the Atlantic coast, it is a rare spring migrant, but is actually common in the fall. Less frequently seen in the west, where it is rare.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra; also frequents mudflats, flooded fields, marshes, and shorelines of lakes and ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from northern Alaska and Yukon east to northern Mackenzie and Victoria Island; and southeast to southeastern Keewatin, northeastern Manitoba, and northern Ontario.  Winters from South America north to Mexico; occasionally wintering birds are found in California, Florida, and along the Gulf coast (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Greenish legs, barred underparts, and chestnut auricular patch identify this species in breeding plumage.  Bill is slightly decurved at tip.  In winter, becomes grayer in appearance; compare with yellowlegs, dowitchers, and Curlew Sandpiper.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is placed within a clump of vegetation; sometimes lined with decayed leaves or grass.

Eggs: 4; 36 mm.; pale green to olive-green in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 19-21 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 17-18 days old.


SECRETS:
If you do not know the habitat where this species is found, you may spend years looking for it without success. Hint: it does not frequent mudflats like many other shorebirds. Best time to look for this species is late August-mid Sept.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra; in migration, typically found in short-grass fields, pastures, sod farms, recently plowed fields, or even on dry mudflats where aquatic vegetation has just begun to grow.

Distribution: Breeds in the Arctic tundra, from northern Alaska east across northern Yukon and northwestern Mackenzie to the Arctic islands.  Winters in South America; migration in the fall is more widespread, which is why the fall is the best time to look for this species.

Field Marks: Buffy wash across face, throat, and breast; mottled brown on the upperparts.  Underside of wings are white, as seen in flight.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is placed within moss or grass.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 4; 37 mm.; white to buff or olive, with brown markings.

Incubation: Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on mudflats, beaches, and on stone or shell banks (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Asian species; occasionally seen in northwestern Alaska and British Columbia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Bill shape is definitive.  Compare breeding plumage with Red-necked Stint.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in wet meadows, marshes, bogs, grassy sloughs, and muddy ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, India, and Australia; occasionally seen in the Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Double white eyebrow gives head and crown an appearance suggestive of Common Snipe.  Note long bill (with droop at tip), short legs.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Perhaps the only bird in the world with two commonly accepted names: its official name is Ruff, but a female of this species may also be called a Reeve.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra habitats, along shorelines of lakes and ponds, in marshes, flooded fields, or meadows, or on mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, India, and Australia; has bred in Alaska.  Encountered in migration in Alaska.  Elsewhere in North America, it is a rare migrant along both coasts, even more rare inland.  However, the trend is for more individuals to be seen each year.

Field Marks: This species features extreme sexual dimorphism in both size and plumage; males average 2-1/2 to 2-3/4 inches larger than females, and in breeding plumage males sport variably colored head tufts and neck plumes suggestive of a Sage Grouse.  In breeding plumage, females tend to be brownish-black on upperparts with black blotching on the breast.  Non-breeding plumage features gray-brown upperparts with dark-centered feathers, paler on the breast, and a white belly.  Most books describe the Ruff as 'plump' or 'pot-bellied'; compare shape with Upland Sandpiper.  Leg color may vary between yellow, orange, green, or red; compare also with Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs.  Distinctive, white 'U'-shape on rump is present in all plumages.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression.

Eggs: 4; pale green, gray, or buff in color, with conspicuous brown spots.

Incubation: Males display on a lek.  Female incubates the eggs and cares for the young.


SECRETS:
Phalaropes twirl around in the water to disturb or stir up aquatic insects or other small life forms, which it then eats. When this occurs, the Wilson's Phalarope resembles a wind-up toy that has been thrown into the water.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on marshes, wet meadows, mudflats, and shorelines of lakes or ponds.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from coastal British Columbia and southern Yukon east across Alberta, central Saskatchewan, central Manitoba, southern Ontario, extreme southern Quebec, and New York to New Brunswick; and south to east-central California and northern Texas, then north-eastward to Kansas, western Nebraska, eastern South Dakota, and northern Iowa east to northern Ohio.  Winters in South America; occasionally recorded in North America during the winter season (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, note needle-like bill and color patterns on head and neck.  Non-breeding plumage features gray upperparts and white underparts.  Lacks a white wing stripe in flight; however, note white rump.  Legs are dark in breeding season, but are yellow throughout the fall migration.

Nest Habits: Semi-colonial.  Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is placed within a clump of vegetation and lined with grass; usually near water.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; 33 mm.; buffy in color, dotted and blotched with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Male incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 16-21 days.


SECRETS:
Phalaropes are often cited as examples of reversed sexual dimorphism: females are larger, are typically more brightly colored, and they also initiate courtship. Males incubate eggs and rear the young.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra; also frequents lakes, ponds, marshes, estuaries, and bays in migration; winters at sea (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska east across Yukon, northern Mackenzie, and central Keewatin to Victoria and southern Baffin Islands; and south to northwestern British Columbia, northern Alberta, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, northern Quebec, and the Labrador coast.  Also breeds in Greenland.  Most birds winter at sea in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: White wing stripe, seen in flight.  In breeding plumage, note reddish-brown color on side of neck, and dark back with chestnut or buffy streaks.  Winter plumage is predominantly gray; note dark gray back with paler streaks, white underparts and forecrown, and dark eye patch.  Bill is thicker than in Wilson's Phalarope, but thinner than in Red Phalarope.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which forms a domed cup of grass; lined with bits of leaves.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 4; 29 mm.; olive in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Male incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 19 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 20 days old.


SECRETS:
Perhaps the most difficult of the three phalaropes to see; its movements during migration are along the east and west coast and it winters at sea; rarely seen at inland locations.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra.  Also frequents bays and estuaries in migration; when found at inland locations, may also occur on lakes, ponds, or marshes; winters at sea (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in the Arctic tundra from western and northern Alaska east across northern Yukon, northern Mackenzie, eastern Keewatin, and the Arctic islands to Greenland.  Winters at sea in the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, note two-toned bill, reddish-brown underparts, and white face.  Bill is shorter and thicker than in other phalaropes.  White wing stripe, seen in flight.  Winter plumage is predominantly gray; note dark gray back without streaks (compare with Red-necked Phalarope), white underparts and forecrown, and dark eye patch.

Nest Habits: Semi-colonial.  Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is often lined with grasses or moss.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 4; 32 mm.; gray-buff to olive-brown in color, with chestnut and black markings.

Incubation: Male incubates the eggs and cares for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 18-20 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 16-21 days old.


SECRETS:
Thick-knees represent a group of mostly terrestrial shorebirds which are mostly nocturnal in their habits. They have an enlarged ankle joint, from which their name is derived.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in savannas, grasslands, or other similar habitats, usually in arid conditions.

Distribution: Native to Mexico, Central America, and South America; considered accidental in Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note striped crown, white belly, gray-brown upperparts and chest, and yellowish legs.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
In Baja California, the Black Oystercatcher and American Oystercatcher overlap in range, and hybrids are known; some authorities consider these two species of oystercatchers to be conspecific (A.O.U. 1998).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along rocky seacoasts and occasionally on adjacent beaches or mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: This species is resident along the Pacific coast from the Aleutian Islands south to Baja California.

Field Marks: Plumage is entirely black or blackish-brown; note thick, red bill.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with bits of rock or shells.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 57 mm.; buffy in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 24-29 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 35 days old.


SECRETS:
The shorelines of every continent except Antarctica are known to have one or more species of oystercatchers; these birds specialize in feeding on bivalve shellfish or clams.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along rocky or sandy seacoasts (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds along the Atlantic, Gulf, and Pacific coasts from Massachusetts south to Florida, west to Texas and Mexico, and north to Baja California.  It is resident throughout most of its range, except for the extreme northeastern populations.

Field Marks: Note thick, red bill and pied appearance to head, wings, and body.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression placed in the sand.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 56 mm.; green-brown or buff in color, spotted or blotched with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 24-29 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 35 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes and flooded fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, India, and Australia; considered accidental in Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Black wings, white underparts.  Note white crown and hind neck (compare with Black-necked Stilt); sometimes crown and hind neck may be dusky gray in color.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Stilts are often gregarious, a behavior pattern most readily seen during the breeding season when one or more birds will fly over and dive at humans who approach too closely to nest site.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on mudflats or in shallow marshes, ponds, or flooded fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range along the Atlantic coast extends from southeastern Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia south to southern Florida; elsewhere in North America, breeding range extends (often locally) from Washington, southern Alberta, Montana, Nebraska, southeastern Missouri, southwestern Kentucky, and western Tennessee south to southern Alabama, southern Mississippi, the Gulf coast, Baja California, and Mexico.  Generally winters from northern California, the Gulf coast, and central Florida south into Mexico, Central America, and South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Long reddish-pink legs and black and white plumage are unmistakable.

Nest Habits: Breeds in small colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression, usually on bare ground and lined with weed stalks, pebbles, and other materials.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 44 mm.; yellow or buff in color, with black or brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 22-26 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28-32 days old.


SECRETS:
In winter, large concentrations may form, sometimes numbering 600 or more birds; however, avocets are most often seen in the western half of N. America. East of the Mississippi in the interior U.S., they are uncommon to rare in migration.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on mudflats or in marshes, ponds, estuaries, and fresh-water or alkaline lakes; prefers alkaline lakes for breeding (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern British Columbia, central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, western Ontario, and western Minnesota south to northern Baja California, Arizona, southern Colorado, southern New Mexico, Mexico, and Kansas; also along coastal Texas and coastal North Carolina.  Generally winters in coastal areas from northern California, western Louisiana, and coastal Mississippi & Alabama south to Mexico and Central America; some birds also winter in southern Florida and Delaware (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Long, recurved bill, long legs, and black and white wing pattern make this bird easy to identify.  Note rusty or tan color to head and neck in breeding season; becomes gray in winter plumage.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression, usually on bare ground and lined with a few dry grasses.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 50 mm.; olive in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 22-29 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28-35 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in grassy steppe habitat (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Asia, India, and Australia; considered accidental in Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note forked tail and dark, brownish-gray upperparts, white rump, and chestnut wing linings; cream-colored throat is outlined in black; bill is dark with a small amount of red is at base of lower mandible.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in grassy tundra habitats, plowed fields, and prairies or pastures with short grass; occasionally also on mudflats or beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and India; regularly occurs in Greenland during migration; is occasionally seen in Labrador and Newfoundland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with American Golden-Plover: note larger size, white axillaries and paler underwing surface, and brighter colors on back and wings.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
In the fall and winter, one of the best places to see this species in California is the Spaletta Plateau area within the Point Reyes National Seashore; local birders can direct you to the spot!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in grassy tundra habitats, plowed fields, and pastures; occasionally also on mudflats or beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Eurasian species; winters in Africa, India, Asia, Australia, and the Hawaiian Islands.  Breeds in Europe and Asia; also breeds along the coast of the Bering Sea in Alaska.  In migration, seen in the Aleutian Islands and along the Pacific coast of California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with American Golden-Plover: note that, in breeding plumage, white stripe that extends from forehead is narrower and continues down the side of the bird onto the flanks; in both breeding and non-breeding plumage, there is a brighter golden wash on the upperparts.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with mosses, leaves, and other vegetation.

Eggs: Assumed to be same as American Golden-Plover: 3-4, usually 4; 48 mm.; cinnamon to light buff or cream in color, with conspicuous spots or blotches of black or brown markings.

Incubation: Assumed to be same as American Golden-Plover: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 26-27 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 22 days old.


SECRETS:
Once treated as a subspecies of the 'Lesser Golden-Plover'; however, that species was split into the Pacific Golden-Plover and the American Golden-Plover; large flocks of 500 or more can be seen during spring migration.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in grassy tundra habitats, plowed fields, and prairies or pastures with short grass; occasionally also on mudflats or beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and Yukon east across northern Mackenzie to the Arctic islands; and south to north-central British Columbia, northeastern Manitoba, northern Ontario, and Southampton Island.  Winters in South America; spring migration is primarily through interior of continent (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Pacific Golden-Plover: note that, in breeding plumage, white stripe that extends from forehead is wider, expands into a large patch on the side of the breast, and does not continue down the side of the bird onto the flanks; in both breeding and non-breeding plumage, the golden wash on the upperparts is duller.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with mosses, leaves, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; 48 mm.; cinnamon to light buff or cream in color, with conspicuous spots or blotches of black or brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 26-27 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 22 days old.


SECRETS:
Not as gregarious in the interior of North America as the American Golden-Plover; in fact, it is uncommon to see more than 10 or 15 birds at a time during the migration. Note that it is more common along the coasts.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra; also frequents mudflats, beaches, shorelines of lakes and ponds, and plowed fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from western and northern Alaska east across northwestern and north-central Mackenzie and northern Keewatin to the Arctic islands.  Winters predominantly in coastal areas; from southwestern British Columbia south to Baja California and Mexico in the west; and from southern New England south to Florida and west to Texas and Mexico in the east (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with the Golden-Plovers: note that this species lacks a golden wash on back and wings; note also white crown in breeding plumage.  Grayer in appearance, it is also told from the Golden-Plovers by white uppertail coverts and black axillaries, as seen in flight.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with mosses, grasses, and lichens.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; 52 mm.; gray, green, white, or brown in color, with dark black or brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 26-27 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 35-45 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra habitats, sandy areas, cultivated fields, or areas with short grass near water; also frequents mudflats, beaches, and shorelines of lakes, ponds, and rivers (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, and Africa.  In North America, it is a local breeder in western Alaska and the Arctic islands.  It also breeds in Greenland.  Does not winter in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare closely with Semipalmated Plover; breast band is often broader in the center of the chest than on Semipalmated Plover, and white eyebrow tends to be more conspicuous.  However, whenever possible, it may be best to use voice to separate these two species.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is sometimes lined with bits of shells, small stones, or other materials.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; buffy in color, with black or brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 24 days old.


SECRETS:
Common call, a whistled, rising 'chu-weet', is diagnostic of this species and can be used to identify birds at great distances, in the fog, or when birds are flying high overhead.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra habitats and in areas with little or no vegetation, such as sandy beaches, gravelly plains, mudflats, dirt fields, and bare shorelines of lakes and ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and Yukon east across the Arctic islands, northern Mackenzie, and northern Keewatin to the northern Labrador coast; and south to central British Columbia, northeastern Alberta, northern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, central Quebec, southern New Brunswick, Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia.  Winters predominantly in coastal areas; from Washington south to Baja California and Mexico in the west; and from South Carolina south to Florida and west to Texas and Mexico in the east (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Single complete breast band; short, bicolored bill (more uniformly dark in winter), and dark upperparts separate this species from Piping and Snowy Plovers.  Note also orange-colored legs.

Nest Habits: Breeds in loose colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is sometimes lined with shell bits or grasses.

Eggs: 3-4, usually 4; 33 mm.; buffy in color, with conspicuous spots, streaks, or blotches of black or brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-25 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 22-31 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in inland fresh-water areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, India, and Australia; occasionally seen in the western Aleutian Islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Single breast band; black feathering that is on forehead and encompasses the eye is separated from brown crown by a white line.  Bill is mostly dark.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
When identifying Wilson's and Semipalmated Plovers in the breeding season, beware of confusing half-grown Killdeer with these species: although adult Killdeer have two breast bands, the juvenile plumage features only one band.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on sandy beaches and tidal mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in coastal areas.  In the west breeding range extends from central Baja California south to Mexico; in the east, it extends from southern New Jersey south along the Atlantic coast to Florida, then west along the Gulf coast to Texas and south to Mexico.  Generally winters from Baja California, the Gulf coast, and Florida south into Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Bill is all black; size and length of bill is greater than in Semipalmated Sandpiper or Snowy Plover.  One single neck band, which is brown in female and black in male.

Nest Habits: Sometimes breeds in loose colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 36 mm.; buffy in color, with spots, scrawls, or blotches of black or brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21 days old.


SECRETS:
True to its scientific name, the Killdeer is an extremely vociferous species; in a flock of shorebirds, it is often the first to sound alarm, which usually results in the other shorebirds taking flight, much to the dismay of the birder.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a wide diversity of open habitats, including agricultural fields, pastures, mudflats, meadows, and even urban areas; usually, but not always, near water (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: An extremely common and widespread species; breeds throughout North America south of central and northern Alaska, central Yukon, Keewatin, and northern Quebec.  Birds in the northern half of the breeding range, especially in the interior of North America, are migratory.

Field Marks: Reddish-orange rump and the presence of two breast bands separate this species from all other plovers.  Call, 'kill-deer', is also easily recognized, even by the novice birder.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, sometimes on gravel of railroad bed, parking lot, or other similar areas; nest is a simple scrape or depression.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 37 mm.; gray-buff in color, with spots, scrawls, or blotches of black or brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 24-28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 25 days old.


SECRETS:
As is true of most plovers, the Piping Plover displays the 'start-stop' method when feeding or walking: this consists of the bird taking a few steps, stopping, looking around, perhaps picking at food, then taking a few more steps.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on beaches, river sandbars, mudflats, and along shorelines of lakes and ponds, usually in sandy or alkaline conditions (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: A localized breeder throughout most of its range.  Breeding range in the interior of the continent extends from south-central portions of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, and northern Minnesota south to north-central and northeastern Montana, central Nebraska, and northern Iowa; also breeds in the Great Lakes region, and along the Atlantic coast from New Brunswick, southern Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland south to South Carolina.  Generally winters in coastal areas, along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts from North Carolina south to Florida, then west to eastern Texas and Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Orange legs, pale back and crown, bicolored bill (all dark in winter), one single (sometimes incomplete) breast band.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is sometimes lined with shells.

Eggs: 3-5, usually 4; 31 mm.; buff in color, with purple or black markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 25-31 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 20-32 days old.


SECRETS:
This species and the Piping Plover are, because of the pale coloration of their upperparts, often difficult to see against the background of sand-colored beaches.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on sandy beaches, dry mudflats, and along shorelines of lakes, ponds and rivers, usually in sandy conditions (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds along the Pacific coast from southern Washington south to Baja California and Mexico; and along the Gulf coast from Florida west to Texas and south to Mexico; also breeds locally in the interior of the continent within the following states and provinces: southern Oregon, California, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, Montana, southern Saskatchewan, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, Arizona, and New Mexico.  Generally winters in coastal areas, essentially occurring throughout the coastal area of its breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note black legs, black bill, pale back and crown, and conspicuously incomplete breast band.  Also has dark patch behind the eye.

Nest Habits: Sometimes breeds in loose colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is sometimes lined with pieces of shells.

Eggs: 2-3, usually 3; 30 mm.; buff in color, spotted or scrawled with black or gray markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 27-28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 31 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on river sandbars, sandy beaches, coastal lagoons, and shorelines of rivers, lakes, or ponds.

Distribution: Resident from Mexico south to South America; considered accidental in Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Single breast band; black feathering on lores and top of crown, with rear of crown and hindneck having a variable amount of chestnut color; bill is thin and dark, and legs are yellowish in color.

Nest Habits: Breeding range includes Central America and South America; also breeds in Mexico.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on beaches, mudflats, and along shoreline of lakes, rivers, and ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, India, and Australia; migrates regularly through Alaska, occasionally seen elsewhere in North America; has bred in northern and western Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, note rust-colored breast and traces of rust on crown and nape; white throat outlined in black; becomes predominantly gray in winter.  Buffy wash extends across chest of immatures.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with leaves and other vegetation.

Eggs: 2-3; cinnamon-buff to olive-buff in color, spotted with black or brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs.


SECRETS:
This species employs an interesting and complex breeding strategy: the female lays one clutch of eggs, which the male incubates; then the female lays another clutch of eggs about 11-13 days later, which she incubates.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open grasslands and short-grass prairie habitats; also in plowed fields or sandy deserts (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Locally distributed throughout breeding range, which extends from southern Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan south through Montana, Wyoming, western Nebraska, Colorado, and western Kansas, and continuing to northeastern Utah, New Mexico, western Texas, and western Oklahoma.  Generally winters from central California, southern Arizona, and central Texas south to Baja California and northern Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Does not have breast bands, a feature which distinguishes this species from all other North American brown-backed plovers; note also buffy tinge to sides, which extends across breast in winter plumage; white forehead and white underwings (as seen in flight).

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is sometimes lined with rootlets or dried grasses.

Eggs: 1-4, usually 3; 38 mm.; olive in color, spotted or scrawled with black markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 28-31 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 33-34 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open stony or sandy areas, recently plowed fields, grasslands, and plains; also may frequent marshes, mudflats, and coastal areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, and Africa; migrates regularly through Alaska; elsewhere on the Pacific coast, it is considered accidental in Washington and California.  It breeds in northern and western Alaska (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, note black belly, tan sides and flanks, white undertail coverts, white throat, and white eyebrow.  Upperparts brownish-gray.  Becomes duller in winter, with a pale white belly.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is lined with lichens or leaves.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; yellow-olive to red-brown in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Apparently, both sexes incubate the eggs, although male may perform most of this role.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in open or cultivated fields, pastures, wet meadows, bogs, mudflats, and coastal areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and India; occasionally seen in northeastern North America, usually in the fall (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note orange undertail coverts, black and white tail, white belly, black breast band, and conspicuous crest.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coastal waters, including bays and estuaries (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to South America; occasionally seen in Panama and Florida (A.O.U. 1998).  Accidental in California, where one bird was observed in 1997.

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, note slaty black mantle and white trailing edge to wing; yellow bill is large and heavy, with the outer third red in color, and with a black spot present on the upper mandible.  Tail is white with a black, subterminal band.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coastal waters and on small, rocky, coastal islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Japan and the Kuril Islands; considered casual or accidental in Alaska, British Columbia, California, and Maryland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compare with Ring-billed Gull; bill also has a black ring, but is somewhat larger and is tipped with red.  Note black, subterminal band on tail.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Beginning in about late June-early July, Heermann's Gulls disperse northward along the Pacific coast, where they may be seen throughout the fall. Their numbers start declining about mid-November & by February most birds have returned south.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Nests on small islands or isolated coasts; generally found in coastal waters or adjacent sandy beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends along the Pacific coast from Mexico north to Baja California and occasionally in southern California.  Post-breeding dispersal along the Pacific coast results in birds appearing as far north as southern British Columbia, and as far south as Guatemala; occasionally seen further inland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 3-4.  Adult has white head, red bill with a dark tip, dark gray mantle, somewhat paler gray underparts, and a black tail with a white terminal band; in winter, head becomes streaked with grayish-brown.  Younger birds are much darker.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground.  Nest is a simple scrape or depression; or it may be a saucer-shaped nest built from sticks, grasses, and weeds.

Eggs: 2-3, usually 3; 59 mm.; pearl gray in color with lavender, brown, and olive markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 28 days.


SECRETS:
Compare with Ring-billed Gull. Study the head shape; the shape, size, and color of the bill; and the flight pattern of Mew Gulls. In time, you will be able to identify this bird at a distance, even with the naked eye.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coastal waters and nearby areas, usually in rocky or sandy habitats; also frequents inland lakes, rivers, and marshes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska, central Yukon, and northwestern and southern Mackenzie south to British Columbia and northern Alberta; also breeds at Churchill in northeastern Manitoba.  Generally winters from southern Alaska south along the Pacific coast to northern Baja California; and inland to eastern Washington & Oregon, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona; very rare or accidental at inland locations east of the Rockies (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 3.  Adult has white head, completely yellow bill, black wing tips, and gray mantle.  Note pigeon-headed appearance to head and white spots at end of primary feathers.  Second-winter birds are similar but bill has a dark tip; also note dark tail band.  First winter birds have a brownish-gray wash throughout wings and underparts, and a darker tail.

Nest Habits: Usually breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground, usually near water; nest is a scrape or simple structure built from seaweeds, grasses, and weed stalks.

Eggs: 2-3, usually 3; 57 mm.; yellow-brown to green-brown in color with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 24-26 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 30-32 days old.


SECRETS:
In the west, the range of this species overlaps with the California Gull. Take advantage of this opportunity to study these birds side by side; this will enable you to find vagrant California Gulls in the eastern U.S.!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a wide variety of fresh-water and salt-water habitats; also away from water in agricultural fields, large grassy lawns, and garbage dumps.

Distribution: Breeding range extends from British Columbia and northeastern Alberta east to Saskatchewan, north-central Manitoba, northern Ontario, southern Quebec, southern Labrador, and northeastern Newfoundland; and south to northeastern California, northwestern Nevada, northwestern Utah, and Wyoming east to the Great Lakes region, New York, New Hampshire, and New Brunswick.  Winters in portions of southern Canada and throughout most of the United States south to Mexico and Baja California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 3.  Adult has white head, yellow bill with a black subterminal ring, pale eyes (compare with California Gull), black wing tips, and gray mantle.  Second-winter birds are similar but tail has a diffuse dark terminal band.  First winter birds have a brownish-gray wash throughout wings and an obvious dark tail band; entire tip of bill is dark.

Nest Habits: Usually breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is simple saucer-shaped structure built from weeds and grasses.

Eggs: 1-7, usually 2-4; 59 mm.; light brown in color with darker brown, lavender, and gray markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21 days.


SECRETS:
Casual or accidental in eastern North America (A.O.U. 1998); scan large flocks of Ring-billed Gulls carefully to locate this rare eastern visitor.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in lakes, marshes, and along seacoasts, bays, and estuaries; also frequents mudflats, agricultural fields, and garbage dumps (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from southern Mackenzie south through Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba to central Montana, North Dakota, and northeastern South Dakota.  Breeding range continues from southern British Columbia, Idaho, and southwestern Montana south to Washington, Oregon, northeastern California, western Nevada, northern Utah, and Colorado.  Winter distribution includes most areas south of a line running from British Columbia to eastern Idaho, Montana, and eastern Colorado; most common at this time along the Pacific coast (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 4.  Adult has white head, yellow bill with red and black spots, and gray mantle.  Note dark eye and greenish-yellow legs.  Second-winter birds have a brownish-gray wash on wings and back, and a bicolored bill; first-winter birds are darker.  Compare closely with Herring and Ring-billed Gull; also with Lesser Black-backed Gull.

Nest Habits: Usually breeds in colonies, on islands with a sandy or gravelly substrate, or along the shoreline of lakes and ponds.  Nests on the ground; nest is simple structure built of rubbish, weeds, and sticks.

Eggs: 1-5, usually 2-3; 68 mm.; olive-buff in color with bold gray and brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 25 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 45 days old.


SECRETS:
Our largest North American gull; scan large inland lakes east of the Missouri River in the winter -- on rare occasions you may be lucky to find this species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on rocky coasts & islands, estuaries, beaches, and bays; may also frequent large inland lakes or garbage dumps (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range is primarily along the Atlantic coast from northern Quebec, northern Labrador, and Newfoundland south to the St. Lawrence River and along the coast to North Carolina; also breeds in southern Ontario, New York, and northern Vermont.  Generally winters along the Atlantic coast throughout breeding range south to Florida; on the Great Lakes; and less commonly on the Gulf coast of Florida.  Occasionally seen in winter at other inland locations in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 4.  Large size and huge bill, combined with black mantle and wings of adult, are good field marks for this species.  Wing tips are mostly black except for white spots at extreme edges of primary feathers.  Plumage is highly variable; first-winter birds are similar in appearance to Herring Gull but not as dark; dark mantle and wings appear progressively over second and third years of age.

Nest Habits: Sometimes breeds in colonies, on rocky coasts or, less frequently, on inland lakes.  Nests on the ground; nest is simple structure built of seaweeds, grasses, mosses, and sticks.

Eggs: 1-5, usually 2-3; 78 mm.; brown or olive with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 26-29 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 49-56 days old.


SECRETS:
Frequent hybridization between this species and the Western Gull has been documented; also known to hybridize with Herring Gull (A.O.U. 1998).

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on coastal waters and associated estuaries, beaches, and bays; and along rocky seacoasts.  May also frequent garbage dumps (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from the Bering coast of Alaska south along the Pacific coast to Washington and northwestern Oregon.  Generally winters in the south Bering Sea and along the Pacific coast from Alaska south to Baja California; casual to accidental further inland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 4.  A large gull; in all plumages note pale mantle and lack of black or dark-colored wing tips.  However, compare with Thayer's and Glaucous Gulls.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, on islands or cliffs in association with rocky seacoasts.  Nests on the ground; nest is simple structure built of seaweeds, straw, and other materials.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2-3; 71 mm.; buff, olive-buff, or olive, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 27-29 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 35-54 days old.


SECRETS:
Rare inland; along the Pacific coast, this is the darkest-backed gull with a white belly.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on coastal waters and associated estuaries, beaches, and bays; and along rocky seacoasts.  May also frequent garbage dumps (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends along the Pacific coast from southwestern British Columbia south to west-central Baja California; generally winters throughout breeding range south to southern Baja California; occasionally seen further inland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 4.  A large gull; adults have dark mantle and white head.  Third-winter birds are similar to adults; second-winter birds have brown wash throughout wings and dark tip to bill; first-winter birds are dark gray overall, with black bill.  From Monterey northward, adults typically have paler backs and darker eyes than those individuals found south of Monterey.  In all plumages, compare with Herring Gull.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, on islands or cliffs in association with rocky seacoasts.  Nests on the ground; nest is simple structure built of weeds and grasses.

Eggs: 1-5, usually 3; 72 mm.; buff-olive in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 26 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 42-49 days old.


SECRETS:
This species was formerly considered a subspecies of Western Gull, but was recently split from that species.  The Salton Sea is one of the best locations to look for Yellow-footed Gulls in the United States.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on coastal waters and associated sandy beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in the Gulf of California; post-breeding migration occurs inland to Salton Sea; also winters within the Gulf of California and occasionally as far north as coastal southern California in San Diego (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 3.  A large gull; adults are similar to Western Gull but have yellow legs and feet.  Second-winter bird is like adult but tail is extensively black; note dark tip to bill.  In first-winter birds, note mostly white color to head and body, mostly dark bill, and brownish wash in back and wings.

Nest Habits: Little information is known; perhaps similar to Western Gull.


SECRETS:
Some female Glaucous Gulls are so small that size alone should not be used to separate this species from similar Iceland Gull; compare wing pattern, wing length, body size, bill size and bill color to separate these two species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on coastal waters and associated estuaries, beaches, and bays; and in tundra lakes or along rocky seacoasts.  May also frequent large inland lakes and garbage dumps (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in Greenland and on Arctic coasts and islands from western Alaska east to northern Labrador.  Winters in the west in coastal waters from northwestern Alaska south to northern Baja California; and in the east along the Atlantic coast from Labrador south to Florida, and occasionally west along the Gulf coast to Texas; also winters inland to the Great Lakes region (A.O.U. 1998); occasionally seen at other inland locations on large lakes or reservoirs.

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 4.  In adult plumage, white wing tips appear translucent and have no black or gray markings (compare with Iceland and Glaucous-winged Gulls).  Younger birds are similar to adults but may have buffy wash (some first-winter birds may be practically all white in color, however); mandible of younger birds typically has a dark smudge or tip.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies, usually near colonies of other seabirds.  Nests on steep cliff faces or on shore of tundra lakes; nest is simple structure built of seaweeds, mosses, and grasses.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 76 mm.; buffy-brown or deep olive-buff, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 27-28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 45-50 days old.


SECRETS:
Identification problems are well-documented with this species, and the similar Thayer's and Glaucous Gulls. Kumlien's subspecies of Iceland Gull is considered a separate species by some, and a hybrid Thayer's x Iceland by others.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coastal waters, less commonly on large inland lakes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes southern Baffin Island, northwestern Quebec, and Greenland.  Generally winters along the Atlantic coast from Newfoundland and the Gulf of St. Lawrence south to Virginia and Bermuda; also winters inland to the Great Lakes region; rare to accidental at other inland sites in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 4.  Plumage is similar to Glaucous Gull; size approximates that of Herring Gull.  Comparisons in all plumages must also be made to Thayer's Gull.  Some Iceland Gulls have white outer primaries, whereas others have a variable amount of gray spots on the tips of the outer primaries (as seen from above).  First winter birds have a black bill, but second winter birds exhibit a pale base to the bill; again, compare closely with Thayer's Gull and Glaucous Gull.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on steep cliff faces; nest is simple structure built of seaweeds, mosses, and grasses.

Eggs: 2-3; 68 mm.; reddish-brown in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes likely incubate the eggs and care for the young.


SECRETS:
Recently treated as a subspecies of Herring Gull, Thayer's Gull was given full species status in 1973. Some authorities feel it is a subspecies of Iceland Gull. This controversial species is coveted by some birders and ignored by others.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra habitats and on coastal waters and associated estuaries, beaches, and bays.  May also frequent inland lakes, rivers, and garbage dumps (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in northwestern Greenland and on the Arctic islands; generally winters along the Pacific coast from southern British Columbia south to central Baja California and, to a lesser extent, in portions of Alaska, the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and the Great Lakes region; rare elsewhere in North America during the winter (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 4.  Identification is often difficult; one must compare this species with the Herring and Iceland Gulls.  Adult is usually separated from Herring Gull by dark eye and pale gray primary feathers (as seen from below in flying bird).  Interested readers are encouraged to consult A Field Guide to Advanced Birding (by Kenn Kaufman, 1990, Houghton Mifflin Co.) or the Audubon Society Master Guide to Birding, volume 2 (edited by John Farrand, Jr., 1983, Alfred A. Knopf) for good discussions on how to identify Thayer's, Herring, Glaucous, and Iceland Gulls in the field.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on cliff faces.

Eggs: 2-3, usually 2; 74 mm.; mottled brown or olive in color.

Incubation: Both sexes likely incubate the eggs and care for the young.


SECRETS:
At large dams and spillways, closely examine large flocks of wintering Herring Gulls for rare gulls, including Thayer's and Iceland Gulls. Use patience and caution in making all identifications.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on coastal waters and associated estuaries, beaches, and bays; also frequents inland lakes, rivers, garbage dumps, and a variety of other habitats, usually near water (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and Yukon, east across northern Mackenzie, central Keewatin, Southampton and Baffin Islands, and northern Quebec to northern Labrador; and south to British Columbia, central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southeastern Wyoming, southern Manitoba, the Great Lakes region, northern New York, and along the Atlantic coast to northeastern South Carolina; breeding also occurs at disjunct locations in southern Alabama, southern Louisiana, and southern Texas.  Generally winters from the Aleutian Islands and southern Alaska, the Great lakes region, and Newfoundland south to the Gulf coast, Mexico, and Baja California; in winter, usually found in coastal areas or in large inland lakes or rivers (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 4.  This is the typical large, gray-backed gull with a yellow bill (with red spot) that most of us are familiar with.  In most of range, large size and dark plumage is usually indicative of immatures in first-winter plumage.  Note the range in appearance between first and fourth years; compare with Thayer's, Western, and Lesser Black-backed Gulls.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground (when disturbed, sometimes up to 60 feet high in tree); nest is simple structure built of weeds, seaweeds, and grasses.

Eggs: 1-4, usually 3; 72 mm.; color a mix of olive, light blue, and cinnamon, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 24-28 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 35 days old.


SECRETS:
Formerly considered a subspecies of Herring Gull, this species was recently given full species status.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found along seacoasts, lakes, and rivers (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and islands in the eastern Atlantic Ocean; considered casual or accidental along the eastern coast of North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Herring Gull, but slightly larger with bright yellow legs (Herring Gull typically has pink legs).

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
The appearance of this species at St. Louis, MO, during the winter of 1983-84 was significant enough to warrant coverage on the evening news with Dan Rather!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coastal waters; vagrants may appear at large inland lakes or rivers.

Distribution: Native to Asia, although nesting on the Bering Sea coast of Alaska was documented in 1996; otherwise, can be found throughout the year in coastal waters of western and southwestern Alaska.  Considered accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 4.  A large gull; adult has pink legs, yellowish eyes, and dark gray mantle and wings; white trailing edge to wings extends as a row of terminal or subterminal spots on blackish outer primary feathers.  Compare with Herring and Western Gulls.

Nest Habits: Sometimes breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is simple structure built of seaweeds and grasses.

Eggs: 3; olive-buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both parents care for the young.  Incubation and fledging collectively may take as long as 3 months.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in tundra habitats and on coastal waters and associated estuaries, beaches, and bays.  May also frequent inland lakes, rivers, and garbage dumps (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe and Africa; also breeds in Greenland.  Winters in small but increasing numbers in North America, from the Great Lakes region and eastern Canada south to the Gulf coast and Florida; more rare further inland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This 4-year gull has a dark gray mantle, white head, and yellowish legs in adult plumage.  Compare immature birds with Herring Gull; note that second-winter birds have a darker mantle than Herring Gull while first-winter birds have a brighter head and belly and a more mottled appearance to back and wings.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Birds in North America are largely the result of significant population expansion in Europe.  First recorded in January 1930, this species' breeding range is likely to expand within North America.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on coastal waters and associated estuaries, beaches, and bays; also frequents lakes, rivers, bogs, marshes, and grasslands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Primary breeding range includes Europe and Asia, but also known to breed in Greenland, Newfoundland, Quebec, Maine, and Massachusetts.  In migration, regularly occurs in the Aleutian Islands.  Wintering birds are regularly encountered along the Atlantic coast from Labrador, Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia south to New York, and occasionally to Florida and west along the Gulf coast to Mississippi; also winters in the Great Lakes region.  Casual or accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 2.  Compare with Bonaparte's Gull.  In adult plumage, note dark brown hood (breeding season) and reddish bill; in flight, primary feathers on underside of wing are dark gray (except for the outermost 3 or 4 primaries).  First-winter birds have pale-colored legs and pale bill with a dark tip; note tail band and wing pattern.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is simple structure built from dried grasses.

Eggs: 2-3, usually 3; 52 mm.; brown, pale green, or blue in color, with black, brown, or gray markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-26 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 35-42 days old.


SECRETS:
In places where range overlaps with Franklin's Gull, learn to concentrate on bill color, head color pattern, and wing tips to separate these two species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds in open coniferous forests near lakes or ponds; frequents coastal waters and associated estuaries, beaches, and bays; also found further inland on marshes, rivers, lakes, ponds, and agricultural fields (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alaska and Yukon east across northwestern and central Mackenzie to northern Manitoba; and south to British Columbia, central Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, central Ontario, Wisconsin, and south-central Quebec.  Winter range includes Pacific, Atlantic, and Gulf coasts: in the west, from southern British Columbia south to Baja California and Mexico; and in the east from Massachusetts south to Florida and west along the Gulf coast to Texas and Mexico.  Also winters further inland, in the southwestern U.S., the Great Lakes region, and in the Ohio and lower Mississippi River valleys south to the Gulf coast and Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 2.  In adult plumage, note black hood (breeding season) and black bill; in flight, primary feathers on underside of wing are white or light gray.  Wing, as seen from above in flight, shows bright flash of white along outer primaries, which are tipped with black.  Winter plumage features a diagnostic black dot behind the eye.  First-winter birds have banded tail and dark bands on upper wings, somewhat suggestive of wing pattern seen in first-winter Black-legged Kittiwake.  Compare also with Black-headed Gull.

Nest Habits: Nest is placed up to 20 feet high in tree, near water; nest consists of a saucer-shaped structure of twigs which is lined with moss, lichens, and grasses.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 50 mm.; buffy to olive in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 24 days.


SECRETS:
What's in a name?  Children who are introduced to the call of this species can unmistakably hear the laughter in the bird's voice. This is a great way to introduce children to birding!

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on coastal waters and associated estuaries, beaches, and bays; also frequents agricultural fields and, less commonly, inland lakes or ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Coastal in distribution: along the Pacific coast of Mexico, and from the Gulf coast of Mexico north and east to Florida and north along the Atlantic coast to southern New Brunswick.  Winters from North Carolina southward throughout its breeding range.  Wanders inland, where it is a casual visitor in many states and provinces (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 3.  In adult plumage, note black hood (breeding season), dark reddish bill, and white underparts; wing tips are black, with no white bar (compare with Franklin's Gull).  Second-winter birds lack half-hooded appearance of Franklin's Gull; note also that sides of breast are gray and tail has a partial dark band.  First-winter birds are grayer still, with a complete tail band; again, compare with Franklin's Gull.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape or simple saucer-shaped structure built from weeds, sedges, and grasses.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 54 mm.; brownish-olive in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 20 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 35 days old.


SECRETS:
In the interior of N. America, birders mistakenly assume that a vagrant hooded gull will likely be a Franklin's Gull; however, one should learn to not eliminate Laughing Gull from consideration when identifying vagrant hooded gulls.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes and agricultural fields; and on estuaries, beaches, bays, lakes, rivers, and ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from Alberta, central Saskatchewan, southern Manitoba, and northwestern Minnesota south locally to east-central Oregon, southern Idaho, northwestern Utah, northwestern Wyoming, and northeastern South Dakota.  Winters in South America, but is occasionally seen along the coast of California and in Florida (A.O.U. 1998).  In migration, more commonly seen at inland locations away from the coast.

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 3.  In adult plumage, note black hood (breeding season), dark reddish bill (turns black in winter), and white underparts (pinkish tinge to breast in breeding season).  Wing tips are white, with black subterminal spots on primaries separated from gray upperwing by white bar.  In winter, retains a partial hood (compare with Laughing and Bonaparte's Gulls).  First-winter birds lack white bar in upperwing, and can be confused with Laughing Gull; note, however, the half-hooded appearance and white outer tail feathers in banded tail.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests over water; nest is a floating platform of dead marsh plants.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 52 mm.; brown or greenish-brown in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 24-25 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 32 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in marshes and flooded agricultural fields; and on estuaries, beaches, bays, lakes, rivers, and ponds (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe and Asia; first documented nesting in North America occurred in 1962; now known to breed at local, disjunct locations in Churchill (Manitoba), southern Minnesota, northern Wisconsin, northern Michigan, Ontario, and southern Quebec.  In North America, winters in the Great Lakes region and along the Atlantic coast from Newfoundland south to Virginia.  Occasionally seen (i.e., rare) south to Florida and further inland within the United States and Canada (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 3.  In adult plumage, note black hood (breeding season), dark reddish bill (turns black in winter), white underparts, and small size.  Has dark spot behind eye, like Bonaparte's Gull, in winter plumage.  In flight, wings are uniformly pale gray above, but are dark gray underneath.  First-winter birds appear similar to Bonaparte's Gull, but have more black in upper surface of outer primaries (lacks white wing flash as a result) and head shows a more extensive smudge of black on crown.  There is also some black in primary feathers of second-winter birds.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape lined with grasses and leaves.

Eggs: 2-5, usually 2-3; 41 mm.; brown to gray in color, with dark brown or dark gray markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-25 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21-24 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on ice packs and nearby cliffs in Arctic areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Circumpolar in distribution.  Breeds on Arctic islands.  Generally winters in areas of Arctic drift ice, south to the southern Bering Sea and northern Canada; rare along the Atlantic coast from eastern Quebec and Nova Scotia south to New Jersey.  Casual or accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 2.  In adults, note all white plumage, and dark bill with a yellow tip.  First-winter birds are speckled with blackish-brown, and have dark tail band and dark spots on primary feathers; again, note the yellow-tipped bill.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on cliffs; nest is a saucer-shaped structure built of mosses, seaweeds, and lichens.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 2; 61 mm.; olive-buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 24-26 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 35 days old.


SECRETS:
This species first nested in North America in 1980, at Churchill, Manitoba; in migration, 1000 or more birds may be found at Point Barrow, Alaska, in September or October.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in Arctic waters and tundra habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Circumpolar in distribution.  Breeds in Churchill (Manitoba); at least one breeding record each also exists for Greenland and for an area on or near Bathurst Island.  Suspected to winter in Arctic waters.  In migration, occurs off the coast of Alaska and the Aleutian Islands; also in the Arctic islands, and in Greenland.  Casual or accidental elsewhere in North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 2.  In adults, note short black bill and white wings.  In breeding plumage, white head is enclosed within black necklace on nape, neck, and chin; rosy appearance appears on breast.  First-winter birds show a black tail band (on central tail feathers) and dark spot behind the eye; in flight, black bars on wing and back form the shape of the letter 'M'.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is built of dried grasses, sedges, twigs, and other vegetation.

Eggs: 2-3, usually 3; 44 mm.; olive-green in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-22 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 20 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters, along seacoasts, and in tundra habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Circumpolar in distribution.  Breeding range extends from northern Alaska, east to northwestern Mackenzie and the Arctic islands; and south locally to northern Keewatin, southern Southampton Island, and southwestern Baffin Island.  Also breeds in Greenland.  Generally winters in the Pacific Ocean, south of Baja California; and, to a lesser extent, in tropical areas of the Atlantic Ocean.  In migration, can be found off both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts (A.O.U. 1998).  Rare at most inland sites in North America.

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 2.  In adults, note black/white/gray pattern in wing, dark hood, and dark bill with yellow tip.  Juvenile plumage shows similar black/white/mottled gray-brown wing pattern; and a dark tail band.

Nest Habits: May breed in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression lined with grasses.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 46 mm.; brown or greenish-brown in color.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-26 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters, along rocky seacoasts and islands, and occasionally on large inland lakes or reservoirs (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes coastal waters of western and northwestern Alaska and the Arctic islands south locally through Baffin Island and Newfoundland to southeastern Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.  Generally winters in pelagic waters; along the Pacific coast from southern Alaska south to Baja California; and along the Atlantic coast from Newfoundland and Nova Scotia south to Florida (A.O.U. 1998).  Rare at most inland sites in North America.

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 3.  In adults, note black legs, gray wings with black tips, and all yellow bill.  In winter, adults have a blotched smudge behind eye extending onto back of crown.  First-winter birds have a dark spot behind eye, black or mostly black bill, black tail band, and black half-collar on back of neck; note black and white wing pattern.  Compare with Bonaparte's and Sabine's Gulls.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on cliffs; nest is a cup-shaped structure built from seaweeds, mosses, and grasses.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 57 mm.; buff-brown to off-white in color, with olive or brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-32 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 43 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters, on rocky islands, and on pack ice (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Bering Sea and northern Pacific Ocean.  Breeds on the Pribilof, Aleutian, and Commander Islands.  Generally winters in the northern Pacific Ocean and Gulf of Alaska.  Casual or accidental elsewhere in North America  (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Years to adult plumage: 2.  In adults, note red legs, gray wings with black tips, and all yellow bill.  First-winter birds have a dark spot behind eye, black bill, and black half-collar on back of neck; note, however, that the tail is entirely white.  Compare with Black-legged Kittiwake.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on cliffs; nest is a cup-shaped structure built from seaweeds, mosses, and grasses.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 56 mm.; Color combination includes blue, buff, pink, brown, or white, with olive-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-32 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 38-48 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in lakes, rivers, and marshes; also frequents coastal areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, India, and Australia; considered accidental in New Jersey and Delaware (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Adults are mostly gray, with dark gray breast and belly, white cheek, and black cap; retains partial black cap in winter, at which time it has white forehead, breast, and belly.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in lakes, rivers, and marshes; also frequents coastal areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, India, and Australia; considered casual or accidental in Alaska and in eastern North America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: In breeding plumage, note reddish bill, black wing linings, and white tail.  In winter, wing linings are white and sides of breast are unmarked; dark spot behind eye is usually separate from dark crown.  Compare with Black Tern.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
Black Terns give strident alarm calls and fly in a harassing manner at people who approach their breeding colonies.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in lakes, sloughs, marshes, meadows, and other fresh-water habitats; also frequents pelagic and coastal waters and associated estuaries and bays (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from British Columbia, northern Alberta, south-central Mackenzie, northwestern Saskatchewan, northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, southern Quebec, southern New Brunswick, and central Nova Scotia south locally to California, northern Nevada, northern Utah, Colorado, Nebraska, Illinois, northern Ohio, Pennsylvania, western New York, and extreme northeastern United States.  Generally winters in coastal waters from Mexico southward.

Field Marks: Black and gray adult has white undertail coverts.  In winter, becomes white below with gray back, wings, and tail; note dark patch on crown, which extends down along side of head to form ear patch; also, winter birds show dark vertical bar on side of breast.  Molting birds have a pied appearance.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests over water; nest is a floating platform of aquatic vegetation.

Eggs: 2-4, usually 3; 33 mm.; olive or buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-22 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21-28 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in lakes, rivers, and coastal areas (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Native to South America; considered accidental in Illinois, Ohio, and New Jersey (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A large, grayish-white tern with black wing tips and conspicuously large, yellow bill.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in recently plowed fields and in a variety of fresh- and salt-water habitats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in coastal areas, from southern California south to Mexico; in the Gulf coast area, from Mexico north to Texas and east to Florida; and north along the Atlantic coast to New York.  Winter range generally includes the Gulf coast and southern Florida south to coastal Mexico.

Field Marks: Grayish-white tern with a black cap and nape (in breeding plumage) and thick, black, gull-like bill.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground, usually near water; nest is a scrape or depression lined with bits of shells and grasses.

Eggs: 1-4, usually 2-3; 47 mm.; pink-buff to yellowish, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 22-23 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28-35 days old.


SECRETS:
The presence of migrating birds high overhead is sometimes revealed by the loud, raucous call typical of this species.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a variety of fresh- and salt-water habitats, including mudflats and sandy beaches.

Distribution: Breeds at a variety of disjunct locations from Baja California and the Gulf coast north into Canada and south coastal Alaska; breeding sites include both coastal areas and inland areas.  Generally winters in coastal areas; in the west, from central California south to Baja California and Mexico; and in the east, from North Carolina south to Florida and west along the Gulf coast to Texas and south to Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large, grayish-white tern with dark blackish-gray outer primaries, a black cap and nape, and a large, thick, bright-red (or orange) bill.  Note partial loss of black cap in non-breeding season and in immatures; however, never acquires white forehead seen in Royal Tern; also compare with Elegant Tern.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape or depression lined with grasses, seaweeds, or mosses.

Eggs: 1-4, usually 2-3; 65 mm.; pale, pinkish-buff in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 20-22 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 30-40 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coastal waters and associated estuaries and lagoons.

Distribution: Breeds locally in coastal areas from New Jersey south along the Atlantic coast to Florida and west along the Gulf coast to Texas and Mexico; and along the Pacific coast from southern California and Baja California south to Mexico.  Winters along the Pacific coast from central California south throughout breeding range; and along the Atlantic coast from North Carolina south through breeding range (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Large, grayish-white tern with mostly pale white outer primaries (as seen in flight from below; compare with Caspian Tern), a black cap and nape, and a large, orange-red bill that is comparatively thinner than bill of Caspian Tern.  Note that black cap is only present briefly at the start of the breeding season; otherwise, adults exhibit a white crown with black feathers on the rear part of the head and nape of neck.  In young birds and non-breeding plumaged adults, the eye is usually separate from the black feathering on the head (compare with Elegant Tern).

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape or depression which is sometimes lined with shell fragments or fish bones.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 1; 63 mm.; buff-white in color, with dark reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 30-31 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 28-35 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coastal areas and associated estuaries, bays, and mudflats (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds locally in coastal areas from Virginia south along the Atlantic coast to Florida and west along the Gulf coast to southern Texas.  Winters in Florida, the Gulf coast region, and southern Mexico (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A medium-sized, grayish-white tern with a yellow-tipped black bill, pale gray-white wings with outermost primaries dark, and a black cap and nape; in non-breeding plumage, note partial loss of black cap, which is replaced with white forehead and streaked crown.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 1-2; 51 mm.; white to pinkish-buff in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 24-25 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 30-35 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in coastal waters and associated estuaries, bays, and beaches.

Distribution: Breeds along the Pacific coast from southern California south to Baja California and northern Mexico; post-breeding dispersal results in birds dispersing as far north as British Columbia.  Winters in Central and South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Resembles Royal Tern, but is slightly smaller in size and bill is longer and noticeably thinner.  Compared to Caspian Tern, it is obviously smaller in size, bill is usually more orangish in color, and underside of primary feathers is mostly pale.  In young birds and non-breeding plumaged adults, the eye is usually enclosed by the black feathering on the head (compare with Royal Tern).

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression.

Eggs: 1-2, usually 1; 54 mm.; white to pinkish-buff in color, with dark brown or black markings.

Incubation: Incubation is thought to last about 20 days.


STATUS:
Threatened or Endangered in a portion of its range

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic and coastal waters and associated estuaries, bays, and beaches (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes local, disjunct coastal areas from Quebec, Maine, and Nova Scotia south to North Carolina; also in the Florida Keys.  Wintering range includes the West Indies and South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: A medium-sized, grayish-white tern with white underparts, reddish-orange legs, a black bill (base of bill reddish in breeding season), pale gray-white wings with outermost primaries dark, and a black cap and nape; in flight, compare underwing pattern with Common and Arctic Terns.  Overall, plumage is paler in color when compared with similar species (e.g., Common and Arctic Terns).  Juvenile-plumaged birds show a brownish cap and mottled or scaled gray-white pattern to back; note black legs.  Black cap is mostly present on first-summer individuals; note, however, the white feathering on the forehead.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a simple scrape or depression which is sometimes lined with dried grass and seaweed.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 1-2; 42 mm.; pale buff to olive-buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-26 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 27-30 days old.


SECRETS:
Prior to the 1980's, birders did not have access to advanced bird I.D. books; as a result, Forster's & Common Terns were sometimes misidentified. Old field guides do not mention the carpal bar of the winter plumage Common Tern, for example.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a variety of fresh- and salt-water habitats, including estuaries, bays, lakes, and marshes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range extends from south-central Mackenzie, Alberta, and Saskatchewan east to northern Manitoba, northern Ontario, southern Quebec, Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia; and south to Montana, northeastern South Dakota, the Great Lakes region, and New York east to the Atlantic coast, and south to South Carolina; also breeds in western Florida and locally along the Gulf coast to Texas.  Winters in South America and Central America, occasionally north to the Gulf coast, Florida, Baja California, and California (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Medium-sized, grayish-white tern with red bill (tipped with black), and reddish legs and feet.  A dark, wedge-shaped area is usually present on the upper surface of the gray wings.  Immatures and birds in non-breeding plumage have a dark shoulder or carpal bar.  In winter, displays a partial-hooded appearance (compare with Forster's Tern).

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape or depression lined with grasses, seaweeds, or shells.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 3; 42 mm.; buff-olive or brown in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21-27 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 26-27 days old.


SECRETS:
Discussions of extreme feats of migration often mention this species, which migrates from the Arctic breeding grounds to the Antarctic wintering grounds; a distance of about 11,000 miles.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic and coastal waters and associated estuaries and bays; also in tundra habitats; less frequently along inland lakes and rivers (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in Alaska, the Arctic islands, Greenland, and northern Canada; winters in subantarctic and Antarctic waters; migration is mostly at sea (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Medium-sized, grayish-white tern with black cap and nape, red bill, and reddish legs and feet.  In flight, top side of wings appear uniformly gray (compared to dark, wedge-shaped feather pattern on Common Tern's wing).  Note gray upperparts and pale gray underparts.  Compare closely with Common Tern; and also with Forster's Tern.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape or depression lined with grasses and pieces of shells.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 41 mm.; brown or greenish in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 20-24 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 21-28 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in a variety of fresh- and salt-water habitats, including estuaries, bays, lakes, and marshes (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds along the Gulf coast from northern Mexico north to Texas and east to Louisiana and Alabama.  Further north, breeding range generally extends from southeastern British Columbia and central Alberta east to southern Ontario; and south discontinuously to Baja California, western Nevada, north-central Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Kansas, and northern Iowa east to eastern Michigan and New York, and south along the Atlantic coast to South Carolina.  Generally winters south of a line extending from northern California east across southwestern Arizona, southern New Mexico, Texas, and the Gulf coast, north to Virginia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Medium-sized, grayish-white tern with orangish bill (tipped with black), black cap and nape, and orangish legs and feet.  In contrast to Common Tern, primary feathers on wings are silvery-white above, creating a flash of white in flight.  Immatures and birds in non-breeding plumage have a crisp, dark line that runs horizontally through the eye; lacks carpal bar on wing and half-hooded appearance to head (compare all of these features with Common Tern).  Note gray tail, edged with white.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a grass-lined platform, or scrape lined with grasses and bits of shells.

Eggs: 2-5, usually 3; 43 mm.; brown or olive in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 23-24 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic and coastal waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in Alaska, along the Chukchi Sea coast, and along the western and southern coasts of the state; also in the Aleutian Islands; winters at sea (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Medium-sized, grayish-white tern with black bill, black cap and nape, black legs, white forehead, and white tail.  Compare wing color pattern with Common and Arctic Terns.  Juvenile plumage is characterized by mottled grayish-brown appearance and reddish coloration to legs and lower mandible.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape or depression.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 42 mm.; clay to olive-buff in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: It is suspected that both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 21 days.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic and coastal waters (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding sites in the Pacific Ocean include small islands off the western and southwestern coast of Mexico; also breeds in the Atlantic region in the Florida Keys.  In the Pacific Ocean, ranges at sea off of Central and South America; in the Atlantic region, it may range north along the Atlantic coast to North Carolina and west along the Gulf coast to Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Medium-sized tern.  Note dark upperparts, light underparts, forked tail, black line through eye, and black cap and nape.  White forehead extends behind the eye as a white eyebrow; compare with Sooty Tern.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape or depression.

Eggs: 1; white in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Little information is known.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters; breeds on islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding sites include islands on the western Mexican coast, islands on the Gulf coast of Texas, islands off the coast of North and South Carolina, and the Dry Tortugas in Florida.  Ranges at sea in the Pacific Ocean south to Panama; and in the Atlantic region from Texas east to Florida and north along the Atlantic coast to New England and Nova Scotia (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Medium-sized tern.  Note dark cap and upperparts, and white underparts.  Adults have black bill, white forehead, and black lores.  Juvenile plumage is brownish-black below, with pale undertail coverts.  Compare with Bridled Tern.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape or depression, sometimes lined with leaves.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 1; 50 mm.; white to buff in color, with lavender or reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 27-30 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 56 days old.


SECRETS:
Currently listed as Endangered, the Least Tern is yet another example of a species in peril due to habitat destruction and over-hunting; as many as 100,000 birds were killed in a season before it was protected.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found on sandy beaches near rivers, lakes, or coastal areas; also frequents bays and estuaries (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range along the Pacific coast runs from central California south to Baja California and Mexico; along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, breeding range extends from Maine south to Florida, and west to Texas and Mexico; also breeds in the interior of North America, along major river systems, including the Colorado, Red, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, and Ohio Rivers.  Winters in South America (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: This is our smallest North American tern.  Note grayish-white plumage; black cap, nape, and lores; white forehead; orangish, black-tipped bill; and black outer primary feathers on upper wing.  Immatures have black bill, dark legs and feet, and dark shoulder bar.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape or depression.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 31 mm.; buff or light olive-buff in color, with dark brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 20-22 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 19-20 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters; breeds on islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds on islands off the west coast of Mexico and on the Dry Tortugas in Florida; winters at sea, and may range north along the Atlantic coast to New Jersey or west along the Gulf coast to Texas (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Note long tail, dark chocolate-brown color, and creamy-white head.

Nest Habits: Breeds in colonies.  Nests in a shrub or tree, up to 12 feet above the ground; nest is a saucer-shaped structure built from dead branches, seaweeds, and other vegetation.  Nest may be lined with various shells or coral.

Eggs: 1; 52 mm.; light pinkish-buff in color, with pale lilac to deep reddish-brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 35-38 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 40-48 days old.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters; breeds on islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds on islands in tropical waters of Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.  Known to summer in small numbers in the Florida Keys (Dry Tortugas) (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Similar to Brown Noddy, but note predominately black body color, smaller size, and shorter legs.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters, coastal islands, and estuaries (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds on islands in the north Atlantic and off the coast of Argentina; also breeds on islands in the southern oceans.  Regularly winters off the Atlantic coast from Newfoundland and Nova Scotia south to New Jersey (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compared to jaegers, skuas have a thicker bill and broader wings.  Note white flash at base of primaries in flying birds.  Streaked appearance and reddish-brown color to back and wing coverts can be used to separate this species from South Polar Skua.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Found in pelagic waters and islands (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeding range includes the coast of Antarctica and the South Shetland Islands; ranges at sea, and may be found from the Gulf of Alaska south to Mexico during the spring-fall months; also frequents waters off the coast of New England, Newfoundland, and Greenland (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: Compared to jaegers, skuas have a thicker bill and broader wings.  Note white flash at base of primaries in flying birds.  Dark brownish-gray back and wing coverts can be used to separate this species from Great Skua.  Compare with Pomarine Jaeger.  Note also that there is a light phase variation to the plumage.

Nest Habits: Does not breed in North America.


SECRETS:
The fall is the best time to look for jaegers at inland locations. Concentrate on large lakes & reservoirs, & be prepared to study the birds with spotting scopes. If possible, take a boat out to get closer and/or to get photos of the birds.

DESCRIPTION:
Habitat: Breeds on the tundra; also found in pelagic waters and, less commonly, on large inland lakes and reservoirs (A.O.U. 1998).

Distribution: Breeds in tundra habitats of western and northern Alaska, extreme northern Canada, the Arctic islands, and in Greenland.  Winters at sea in the Pacific Ocean from northern California southwards; and in the Atlantic-Gulf region north to the Gulf coast and Florida.  Most of the migration is off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts (A.O.U. 1998).

Field Marks: The largest of our three species of jaegers, the Pomarine appears large-bodied and has deep, relative slow wing beats.  On wings, white flash at base of primaries is larger than in other species of jaegers; in addition, there is sometimes a smaller, paler area of white at the base of the primary coverts.  Tail streamers in adult birds appear broad and twisted at the end; note also the dark breast band and facial color patterns in light phase birds.  Note that there are two color phases (light and dark).  Oftentimes, separation from Parasitic Jaeger is difficult or impossible; it is suggested that advanced bird identification guides be consulted to aid in identification, especially when immature birds are involved.

Nest Habits: Nests on the ground; nest is a scrape or depression, usually in drier areas of the tundra.

Eggs: 1-3, usually 2; 62 mm.; brownish-olive in color, with brown markings.

Incubation: Both sexes incubate the eggs and care for the young.  Incubation lasts approximately 25-27 days; young are capable of flight when they are about 31-37 days old.


