The Scissor-tailed Flycatcher (Tyrannus forficatus) is a rare visitor for the central coast where one was last seen in 2008 at Ano Nuevo State Park (per ebird database). So needless to say, I was off in search of this rarity when I got an ebird email alerted of the flycatcher's presence at Miramontes Point area in San Mateo California.
Sometimes looking out your window reveals the familiar but when I pick up my camera my sense of observation turns the familiar into something new and exciting.
Wrens are very common in Santa Cruz County with the Bewick's being the most common and wide spread. We also have the Marsh, House, and Pacific Wrens but they are common in the appropriate habitat. So, when a Rock Wren showed up last weekend it was a big deal for the area birders.
There are 2 migrations a year and they bring a lot of activity in the birding world. This week's photo is of a Lincoln's Sparrow that I was fortunately to have perch about 3 meters from me.
For me, the true sign of fall in Santa Cruz is the return of the sparrows. There are other species that winter in California, but for me it is when the Fox and Golden-crowned sparrows return to my home that I look forward to in the fall.
