10,000 Birds

NOVEMBER 7, 2012

Lark Sparrow ( Chondestes grammacus ) photos by Larry Jordan Nearly two years ago I wrote my second post as the West Coast Beat Writer on Lema Ranch, a Northern California birding hot spot. I caught this one as it perched briefly on the fence.

Sparrows 127

Sparrows Mules Jordan California 127

10,000 Birds

NOVEMBER 22, 2017

In addition to the hundred or so species of birds I regularly find here, there are Desert Foxes, Bobcats, Mountain Lions, Desert Bighorn Sheep and Mule Deer. Black-throated Sparrows. Despite the eyesore that is this mine, the wildlife continues to thrive in this harsh environment. Brown Pelicans. Loggerhead Shrikes.

Mountain Lions 100

Mountain Lions Mules Sheep Lions 100

10,000 Birds

SEPTEMBER 12, 2018

By the time we left, I had recorded one new Lifer, 12 New Year Birds, and a total of 76 species. This Savannah Sparrow was one of many that flitted around the gravel on the trails and roadways. In addition to the birds, we saw Mule Deer, Beaver, Muskrat , and Mink. US species – 175. eBird reports – 265.

Blackbirds 123

Blackbirds Mules Beavers Wildlife 123

10,000 Birds

JUNE 17, 2011

Besides the American bison that the refuge was founded to protect, there are pronghorns, elk, bighorn sheep, mule and white-tailed deer, and black bears. Things started on a promising note, with Mountain Bluebirds and the pale local race of Song Sparrow both evident in the visitor center parking lot.

Rattlesnake 164

Rattlesnake Bald Eagle Mules Mammals 164

10,000 Birds

SEPTEMBER 20, 2017

Home to over 200 species, this amazing area is quite susceptible to the amount of rainfall each year. A White-crowned Sparrow is always a beautiful subject! I had the antelope greet me on my way in, and this Mule Deer doe, was there to say goodbye on my way out. Here was my first surprise, an Mac Gillivray’s Warbler.

Sheep 119

Sheep Oregon Mules Livestock 119

10,000 Birds

JUNE 3, 2011

Almost immediately I was besieged by the songs of Yellow Warblers , Black-capped Chickadees , and Song Sparrows , all engaged in vigorous staking-out of territory. Things were quiet at first as I headed upwards, until I startled two Mule Deer. Brewer’s Blackbirds and House Finches were carting nesting material to and fro.

Landlord 171

Landlord Bald Eagle Mules Nashville 171