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INSTITUTE FOR FIELD ORNITHOLOGY

2007 IFO Flycatchers Report

Instructor: Chris Benesh • 23-29 July 2007 • Sierra Vista, Arizona

This year's ABA-IFO Flycatcher Workshop was a great success. Things got started with an introductory lecture covering the nature of tyrannid flycatchers as well as a preview of the species likely to be seen later in the week.

The next morning, we met up to cover the Tyrannus kingbirds in detail before heading to Sierra Vista, our base for the remainder of the week. That afternoon, we tackled the Myiarchus flycatchers, giving us a primer for the following morning's birding. Armed with our new found knowledge, we headed off to Patagonia, the roadside rest, and Rio Rico where we observed a variety of kingbirds and flycatchers. Highlights this morning included great views of Thick-billed and Tropical kingbirds, as well as several Brown-crested Flycatchers and a pair of Dusky-capped Flycatchers. We saw a variety of other species as well, with Varied Bunting being a particular favorite. Our next morning out was to Fort Huachuca, where we made a visit to Garden Canyon. Highlights here included Buff-breasted Flycatcher, Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher, and a smashing view of a trogon! The next morning we were back out to the Patagonia area, where a visit to Patagonia Lake provided a great study of the tiny Northern Beardless-Tyrannulet, as well as a number of other species. Our final morning of birding was up Carr Canyon, where we we able to track down Greater Pewee and additional Buff-breasted Flycatcher. The scenery alone was worth the trip.

The Arizona monsoon was in full swing during the workshop, and the rain came uncharacteristically early on some mornings. But for the most part, we were able to successfully dodge showers and get the birds we were after. Flycatchers present an significant identification challenge, and all of you did a terrific job in the course.

Thanks to all of you for attending!

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ABA Institute for Field Ornithology, ABA
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