El Paso Co. varia

[Glenn Walbek]

Folks,

I visited Big Johnson Reservoir on my way home from work today, looking for the lingering Pacific Loon discovered by Peterson almost 2 weeks ago.  I found the loon close to the southwest shore where good views could be had from the parking area.  The basic plumage Common Loon also persists, but a breeding plumage Red-necked Grebe was a colorful surprise.  

Possibly more significant, I observed an adult, male Chestnut-collared Longspur south of Calhan in northeast El Paso County.  Neither Colorado Birding Atlases show this species as a breeder in El Paso County.  I can not yet confirm breeding of this species in El Paso County, however the date suggests breeding is occurring there.  McCown's Longspurs are not uncommon breeders in northeast  El Paso County and I have recently observed hatched youngsters of this species.  The potential of a late/early, migrating Chestnut-collared Longspur in this area seems remote given the date. I will post to this list if I can confirm breeding of Chestnut-Collared Longspurs in El Paso Co. and call for the presses to stop at Atlas II ;-)

Glenn Walbek

Castle Rock, CO

https://gwalbek.smugmug.com/browse

[Aaron D.]

Thanks Glenn!  Both Longspurs exactly where you said.  Lifers for my wife and I.   

Aaron Driscoll

Colorado Springs