Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 7, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies

[Chicobander]

The Ranch received some much needed precipitation yesterday. None as great as farther north but the birds were out looking for insects and seeds all day yesterday. 

Today we opened the nets later due to the temps. Birds were very active once it warmed up. It was good to see that those we caught/banded were in good condition. The Least Flycatcher was the lowest fat condition. I am sure it had the toughest time yesterday finding food. Glad the temps are nice today to let the birds feed and prepare for migration. 

Eighteen bird species captured/banded including 6 warblers (if separate the subspecies) and 5 sparrows. Harris's Sparrow and Canyon Towhee were a highlight for me. 

46 New Banded Birds

Audubon's (Yellow-rumped) Warbler- 1

Myrtle (Yellow-rumped) Warbler- 4

Common Yellowthroat- 1

Wilson's Warbler- 3

Yellow Warbler- 2

Orange-crowned Warbler- 1

Northern House Wren- 2

Least Flycatcher- 1

White-throated Sparrow- 1

Mountain White-crowned Sparrow- 4

Gambel's White-crowned Sparrow- 13

Harris's Sparrow- 2

Chipping Sparrow- 2

Spotted Towhee- 1

Canyon Towhee- 1

Swainson's Thrush- 6

Gray Catbird- 1

3 Recaptures- all gained weight/fat since original banding date

Common Yellowthroat

Myrtle (Yellow-rumped) Warbler- first banded on May 1st- doing great

Gamble's White-crowned Sparrow

American Robin male nesting in banding station area is a returning bird that is at least 7 years old.It was banded as an adult.

The banding station will be open tomorrow through Saturday from sunrise until @11 AM. Stop by the banding station and share your sightings. We would love to hear what you have seen.

Remember to register on Aiken Audubon website if wanting to bird the ranch. www.aikenaudubon.com

Have a good day,

Julie Shieldcastle

Chico Basin Ranch, Bander

Bird Conservancy of the Rockies