Chico Basin Ranch Banding Station Report- May 9, 2026-Bird Conservancy of the Rockies

[Chicobander]

Northerly winds overnight did not help birds to migrate north. The lost Thick-billed Kingbird was still around today in the morning for registered birders to view. It could have taken advantage of the north winds to help it return to SE Arizona or further reaches south. Male Bullock's Orioles were dancing and singing trying to attract the females while some of the Western Flycatchers are already building nests near the banding station. Lots of bird activity high in the trees but not much down lower to the ground. 

First of the season Yellow-breasted Chat, Dusky Flycatcher, and Common Grackle were banded today. 

20 New Birds Banded

Myrtle (Yellow-rumped) Warbler- 1

Audubon's (Yellow-rumped) Warbler- 1

Dusky Flycatcher- 1

Northern House Wren- 2

American Goldfinch- 2

Lincoln's Sparrow- 1

Gambel's White-crowned Sparrow- 1

Hermit Thrush- 1

Swainson's Thrush- 4

Yellow-breasted Chat- 1

Gray Catbird- 1

Blue Jay- 1

Red-winged Blackbird- 2

Common Grackle- 1

2 Recaptures

Gray Catbird- gained weight/fat

MacGillivray's Warbler- gained almost 2 grams in one day!

The Banding Station will be closed tomorrow and open back up on Monday @sunrise until @11AM. Birding on the Ranch is available through the Aiken Audubon Website. Please Register at www.aikenaudubon.com

I would guess the Thick-billed Kingbird will be on the ranch tomorrow but not sure it will be where public is allowed to go. Please maintain proper manners and stay in areas designated. Please do not ruin an experience for someone else by going somewhere not allowed. Thank you.

Have a good day,

Julie Shieldcastle

Bander, Chico Basin Ranch

Bird Conservancy of the Rockies