ANNOTATED CHECKLIST: BIRDS OF BONAIRE
By Jerry Ligon,
Nov, 2002 E-mail- jcligon@bonairelive.com
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PHONE 717-2098
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REFERENCE LIST
ALL SPECIES ACCOUNTS PRIOR TO 1983 ARE PUBLISHED IN THE EXCELLENT, BUT DIFFICULT TO FIND AND OUT-OF-PRINT BOOK, BIRDS OF THE NETHERLAND ANTILLES, BY PROF. DR. K. H. VOOUS, ISBN 906011.157.5, PRINTED IN 1983. VOOUS ALSO PUBLISHED A REVISED AND UPDATED FIELD CHECKLIST OF THE BIRDS OF BONAIRE, PUBLISHED BY STINAPA, 1993.
ALL RECORDS MORE RECENT, FROM 1994 ONWARD, ARE MY OWN OBSERVATIONS OR THOSE REPORTED TO ME. VERY FEW OTHER SCIENTIFIC RECORDS EXIST FOR THE BIRDS OF BONAIRE.
A GUIDE TO THE BIRDS 0F THE WEST INDIES, BY RAFFAELE, WILEY, GARRIDO, KEITH, AND RAFFAELE, 1998, WAS CONSULTED WHEN DISCUSSING THE 3 RARE HERON SPECIES RECENTLY ADDED TO THE CARIBBEAN AVAFAUNA.
ONE FINAL SOURCE IS THE GUIDE TO THE BIRDS OF VENEZUELA, BY DE SCHAUENSEE AND PHELPS, 1978 FOR THOSE BIRDS THAT ARE MAINLY FOUND IN VENEZUELA.
FOR THOSE VISITING BIRDERS FROM NORTH AMERICA, YOU WILL FIND THAT A MAJORITY OF BIRDS CAN BE FOUND IN THE COMMONLY USED FIELD GUIDES FOR NORTH AMERICA. MY “NEW” FAVORITES ARE BIRDS OF NORTH AMERICA, BY KENN KAUFMAN, 2000, AND NATIONAL AUDUBON SOCIETY’S THE SIBLEY GUIDE TO BIRDS, BY DAVID ALLEN SIBLEY, 2000.
RECORDS IN RED ARE THOSE GATHERED SINCE SUMMER OF 2001 or species accounts are underlined
Common Family Name Latin Family name Scientific name Status on Bonaire
GREBES,
Podicipedidae
Pied billed Grebe Podilymbus podiceps
uncommon nester -5 young with striped heads seen riding
on back of one of the adults, on large fresh water pond near Park entrance,
30 Apr., 2000 (JCL)
Least Grebe Tachybaptus
dominicus uncommon nester- pair with 6 young, Onima Ponds, Mar., 2000;
2 stripe-headed young at pond at Dos Pos 16 June, 2000, with 3 sub-adults
and 2 adults indicating possibly double brood from adults. Large numbers,
at least 20, mostly immature, seen on freshwater pond near park entrance,
1 Nov., 2000 (JCL, L. Sall). Pond began to dry up and the last of the grebes
to be seen was 15 July, 2001 (C. Powell). In N. A., only likely place to see
this species is Rio Grande region of Texas.
SHEARWATERS,
Procellariidae
Great Shearwater Puffinus gravis
rare visitor
Audubon's Shearwater Puffinus lherminieri
nesting?
STORM PETRELS,Hydrobatidae
Leach's Storm Petrel Oceanodroma leucorhoa
rare visitor –Atlantic: One specimen 17 Nov., 1979 (FCL); injured bird
found by kayaker, Stapert, and brought to me for identification was found
off sw shore of Klein Bonaire sitting on open ocean, 2 July, 1996 (JCL, S.
Stapert)
FRIGATEBIRDS,
Fregatidae
Magnificent Frigatebird Fregata magnificens
non -br. visitor –Caribbean. Nearest known nesting colony is in the mangroves
of Morrocoy National Park, Falcon, Venezuela, 120 km due south of Bonaire
(Voous, 1983)
TROPICBIRDS,
Phaethontidae
Red-billed Tropicbird Phaethon aerhereus
rare, offshore, two sight records, one, at 20 nautical miles off Cape Malmok,
extreme northern tip of Bonaire, 25 May 1979 (RVH), and one seen 12 miles
SW of southern tip of Bonaire, 12 May 1977 (B. H. M de Jong), and one collected
on SE coast July 1991 (EJ).
White-tailed Tropicbird (Yellow-billed) Phaethon lepturus
rare, One record for Bonaire, but 12 miles NW, off Cape Malmok, extreme northern
tip of Bonaire,23 Jan 1970 (RVH).
PELICANS,
Pelecanidae
Brown Pelican Pelecanus occidentalis
non-br.resident. In our area only known to breed on Aruba where first recorded
in 1966, and also Los Roques, La Tortuga, Ven. (Voous, 1983).
BOOBIES, Sulidae
Note: In the fall of 2001, Bonaire received two ships, one, the fast ferry named the Chogogo, Papiamento for flamingo, that takes as many as 175 passengers between Bonaire and Curacao three times daily, and the boobi, which is a glass bottomed boat that can seat 25 passengers comfortably. Like its namesake, the local brown booby actually can be seen to sit on top of the water in the harbour and peak into the water looking for schools of fish. It then takes to the air, circles and plunge-dives into the school of fish and usually comes to the surface with one in its mouth. It can focus underwater just as we do and as all vertebrates must do-provide a surface of air between the retina and the water. We do this with the addition of a snorkel mask, the booby does it with the addition of its nictitating membrane that it covers its eye surface with in order to focus under water.
xRed-footed
Booby Sula sula non-br. visitor-Caribbean An injured brown morph was photographed
on beach south of Sorobon, mid-July 2001 (C. Powell). Two color morphs occur
: dark adult with with white tail, and light morph adult with dark trailing
edge of wing, dark bill: Note Northern Gannet’s black tipped wings only and
also dark bill .
Masked Booby Sula dactylatra
rare visitor – Caribbean Bonaire has 3 records, all
prior to 1979. Recent reports of Northern Gannet
from visitors on cruise ships indicate that they are confusing these two species
out on the open sea, especially the immatures. It must be noted that immature
masked booby has light bill, immature gannet, dark bill. In the adults, gannet
has all white upper parts with tips of wings black only, adult masked boody
has white upper parts with black on wing-tips and along trailing edge of wing
as well, (JCL).
Brown Booby Sula leucogaster
non-br. visitor –Caribbean recorded all months along Kralendijk harbour.
CORMORANTS,
Phalacrocoracidae
Double-crested Cormorant Phalacrocorax
auritus winter visitor - N. A.
Neotropic Cormorant (Olivaceous) Phalacrocorax olivaceus
visitor - S. A. More common than preceeding species.
Most likely site, during dry winter/spring ’01-’02
salina along entrance road into Pus Mangel, Washinton/Slagbaai, March, 2002,
(D & E Compton).
HERONS AND EGRETS,
Ardeidne
Black-crowned Night Heron
Nycticorax nycticorax nesting?
Yellow-crowned Night Heron
Nycticorax violacea nesting
Boat-billed Heron
Cochlearius cochlearius rare, 1 record, 1972,
salt pans (Florida birdwatching party C. Russel)
Green Heron Butorides
striatus nesting
Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis
nesting ? One individual regularly seen on lawn
along entrance road into Plaza Resort during winter of ’01-’02, 3 Apr., 2002
(JCL).
xLittle Blue Heron
Egretta caerulea non-br. visitor - N. A. *see note following
Tricolored Heron Egretta
tricolor nesting
Reddish Egret Egretta
refescens nesting. Occur in both white and reddish morphs but always
have bill that is pink at base and black at tip. Also behaviorally can be
told from other herons and egrets by the habit of the reddish egret to chase
its prey by opening its wings as it dashes about which is called “canopy feeding”.
Snowy Egret Egretta thula
nesting, * see note following
Great Egret Casmerodius albus non
-br. visitor -S.A.
Great Blue Heron Ardea herodias
non-br. visitor N. A., * see note 2 following
Whistling Heron Syrigma
sibilatrix 1
record at Slagbaai on the morning of 8 Jan., 2003
*NOTE: Little Egret, Egretta garzetta, known to occur in southern Europe, Africa and South-East Asia east to Japan, was first recorded in West Indies in 1954 and has been recorded in increasing numbers (current population on Barbados is around 80 individuals, where also first recorded nesting of this species in Western Hemisphere has occurred.) Occurs in both white and dark morphs in West Indies. Is to be looked for among egrets here on Bonaire and elsewhere in the Caribbean: Description- White morph: Breeding- All white, usually with two long head plumes; (Snowy has many shaggy, fine head and breast plumes); bill and legs black with yellow feet; lores reddish,, in breeding plumage, but bluish-gray or greenish-gray in non-breeding. Dark morph – Gray overall, sometimes with a white chin and throat which is similar to another rare but increasingly reported heron, the Western Reef Heron, which has been recorded from Puerto Rico, St Lucia and Barbados. It is widespread in West Africa to Western Europe. Description of Western Reef Heron, Egretta gularis , White morph: Breeding- two long hind neck plumes; legs dark olive-green; feet yellow; lores greenish-yellow or green; lower mandible paler than upper. Dark phase – White chin and throat; bill solid color, dark; lower breast and belly tinged brown; black legs; feet yellowish-green, soles yellow. (adult Little Blue Heron has base of bill gray and tip black, also legs are greenish)
Also look for size differences between these two and Snowy Egrets. Both of these rare egrets are a bit larger ( 55-65 cm, 22 to 25.5 inches) than typical Snowies ( 51- 71 cm, 20 to 28 inches), but take caution because of overlap in sizes.
NOTE 2: Gray Heron, Ardea cinerea, has also been reported in the West Indies irregularly since first recorded in 1959 of a bird banded 4 months earlier in France. It is listed as vagrant on Montserrat, Martinique, as well as Barbados. Apparently arrives in the West Indies as a transatlantic vagrant from Africa via favorable winds. Widespread from northern Europe to Africa. Description: a bit smaller than similar Great Blue Heron, but distinguishable by white thighs in all plumages whereas in the Great Blue Heron, the thighs are reddish-brown.
IBISES AND SPOONBILLS,
Threskiornithidae
Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus
non-br. visitor- S. A. Few records for Bonaire.
One adult seen Lac, 29 Sept-16 Oct, 1980 (FCL). One individual observed probing in fresh-water pond in field
after week of heavy rains, Dark iris plainly observed at close range, 29
Oct, 2002 (JCL).
Roseate Spoonbill Ajala ajala
casual visitor - S.A; 3 records:1960,1974; 1 at Boca Slagbaai salina, remained
about 1 week, May, 1998 (JCL)
FLAMINGOS,
Phoenicopteridae
Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus ruber nesting- first
courtship among adults who show heightened interest in each other with necks
stretched high and frequent wing-flashing was obvious among group of 10 to
30, observed at Gotomeer 15 Oct., 1999, during fall with heavier than normal
rainfall (JCL). Very sensitive during nesting to disturbances and easily deserts
nest. Greatest human-caused tragedy known happened in 1944 when an ‘official
show’ of airplanes disturbed the nesting colony at the south end of the island,
and the adults deserted their nests and the adults left the island and did
not return for 7 years (Voous, 1983). First breeding on Pekelmeer’s newly
declared Flamingo Sanctuary, 1969, when 2300 pairs nested. Populations of
South Caribbean Flamingos estimated in early 1980’s around 10,000 and it
has been determined that if Flamingos have a successful breeding season twice
every 6-7 years the recruitment balances the losses over these years, (Voous,
1983). Numbers during dry winter of 2001-2002 down
to less than 5000 for island, only around 100-150 at Gotomeer, 3 April, 2002,
(JCL).
DUCKS AND GEESE,
Anatidae
Fulvous Whistling Duck
Dendrocygna bicolor rare visitor - S.A. Bonaire-one record of
4 adults on fresh water lakes at Onima, 9 March-25 March, 1975 (FCL, A.L.
Spaans, A A van den Boogaard).
x Black-bellied Whistling Duck Dendrocygna
autumnalis rare visitor - S. A. one record for Bonaire of 13 birds
seen near Sabana, 29 Jan, 1981 (FCL and party)
Comb Duck Sarkidiornis
melanotos rare visitor - S. A., 3 records: Apr., 1975 , 8 birds Washikemba;
one adult male Mona Passage, 17 April 1981 (FCL); Mar., 2000, 6 individuals on freshwater salina near park entrance
(S. Stapert)
American Widgeon Anas americana
rare winter visitor - N. A. One banded on 14 August, 1956 in North Dakota
was recovered 9 December, 1956, on Bonaire (Voous);
one seen in flock of 70 Blue-winged Teal, Washikemba lake, 1 Nov., 2001
(JCL, L. Sall).
Mallard Anas platyrhynchus
rare winter visitor- N.A; not listed in Voous, 1983, but on Field Checklist
of the Birds of Bonaire, by Voous, published by STINAPA, Bonaire, 1993.
Northern Pintail Anas
acuta rare winter visitor - N. A.; Two records; one male and
one female seen on Playa Grande, 2-9 Feb., 1980, (FCL and Peggy Boyer); 1male
in flock of White-cheeked Pintails, freshwater pond near Cai, March 10, 2001
(JCL, P. H.)
White-cheeked Pintail Anas bahamensis
nesting. Only 2 seen during morning of birding,
29 Dec., 2001 (JCL, J&A Watson, D. Preker). Returning to Gotomeer during
first week of March, 2002, as 15 seen on 3 March, (JCL, C. Powell)
Blue-winged.Teal Anas
discors winter visitor - N. A. Only a few males seen in fall have
crescent patch on cheek, then began to show this patch just prior to their
northern migration, Apr., and during winter you cannot tell male from female
even though they tend to remain paired, (JCL). On 16 Nov., 2001, at Washikemba, where water began to gather once again, 65 blue-winged teal
were counted. All appeared in identical, brownish plumage with no males showing
prominent cresent patch on cheek(JCL).
Northern Shoveler Anas clypeata,
rare winter visitor – N. A. , old record: 1973;
recent records: 2 males, 1 female, Mar., 2000
(JCL, S. Stapert); 4 individuals seen
in large flock of Blue-winged Teal on Washikemba Lake, 1 Nov., 2001, all appeared
same brown color but large spatula-shaped bills were distinctive as well as
conspicuously larger size than the teal (JCL, L. Sall)
Lesser Scaup Aythya affinis
winter visitor - N. A.
Ring-neck Duck Aythya
collaris rare winter visitor - N. A. One adult male observed
Wash/Slagbaai, 23 Jan, 1971 (P.A. & F. G. Buckley).
xMasked Duck Oxyura dominica
rare visitor - S. A. 1 record of immature bird,
Salina Martinus, 22 Feb., 1981V, FCL, CSR)
RAILS, GALLINULES
AND COOTS, Rallidae
Sora Rail Porzana caroina winter visitor- N..A. Voous has it here from Aug
14 to Apr. 14 -one sighted on fresh water pond at Dos Pos is island’s only
summer record, 14 July, 2000 (JCL) - 5 on one fresh-water
pond, Feb., 2000 (JCL, E. Roots); also, 4 found on last of freshwater pond
near park entrance, 4 Nov., 2000, (JCL, L. Sall). Did
not see any Soras for the year until 1 November, 2001, when 4 were seen on
one small shallow, fresh-water pond along side the paved road along the mangrove
marsh, after moderate amounts of rain had fallen in the past two weeks, (JCL).
Common Moorhen (Gallinule) Galinula chloropus nesting, adults with 4 downy young, pond at
Dos Pos, July, 2000 (JCL)
Purple
Gallinule Porphyrula martinica
? nesting; very secretive, no recent records; old records: between
1954 and 1981, 23 records, and not a small number had blundered into houses
at night, apparently attracted by lights , and all of these proved to be
juveniles (Voous, 1983); an immature brought to me injured, found in back yard in Kralendijk,
13 Dec., 2001
Caribbean Coot Fufica caribibaca
nesting: 4 active nests with at least 2 sets of downy chicks seen, Mar.,
2000 (JCL)
NOTE: Spring and summer of 2001, continuing into spring 2002 has proven to be very dry. Large, fresh-water pond along the highway leading to Washington/Slagbaai National Park, almost totally dry last of August. Likewise, Washikemba fresh-water pond totally dry during first week of July 2001. Island’s population of Least Grebes, Common Moorhen, Caribbean Coot, etc., apparently did not nest this year, and presumably have left the island.
In contrast the fall and winter of 1999 was an exceptionally wet one, (77 inches vs. 22 in average year) which was evidenced by many bird records during that winter and into the summer of 2000. Many fresh-water ponds remained active sites for large numbers of water birds throughout the year 2000 and began to finally dry up during summer 2001. (JCL, April, 2002)
JACANAS,
Jacanidae
Wattled Jacana Jacana jacana
1 record, 1971- S. A.
OYSTERCATCHERS, Haematopodidae
American Oystercatcher Haematopus palliatus nesting; Seen quite regularly along east
coast of Bonaire, (JCL). One at Sorobon peninsula,
29 Dec., 2001 (JCL, J&A Watson, D. Preker); one along coast near Gotomeer
junction, 5 March, 2002, also 19 March (JCL).
STILTS AND AVOCETS,
Recurvirostridae
Black-necked Stilt
Himantopus mexicanus nesting. Huge concentration of at least 500 seen in mangrove marsh near
junction with Sorobon road, 1 Nov, 2001 (JCL). Numbers reduced to less than
90, 29 Dec., 2001 (JCL, J&A Watson, D. Preter). Numbers increasing along
Gotomeer, mid-Mar.2002 as 30 were counted 16 March, 2002 (JCL).
American Avocet
Recurvirostra americana 1 record,
1979 - N. A.
PLOVERS,
Charadriidae
Semipalmated Plover Charadrius
semipalmatus non-br visitor - N. A. At
least 10 seen during morning of birding, 29 Dec., 2001 in the Cai/Sorobon
area, (JCL, J&A Watson, D. Preker). A sizeable flock of at least 50 individuals
appeared along wave-tossed coast before Bopek during first week of April
(JCL). First report of fall birds, was 4 seen along shore of Gotomeer 29 August,
2002, (JCL, D. Walter).
xWilson's Plover Charadrius
wilsonia nesting
Killdeer Charadrius vociferus
winter visitor - N. A. first record since Voous’s published accounts,
a single bird on seasonal fresh-water pond near park entrance, 24 Nov., 2000
(JCL, S. Stapert). Four individuals found on small fresh-water pond along highway
to Lagoen, 16 Nov., 2001 (JCL).
Piping Plover Charadrius melodus
rare winter visitor - N. A. One individual seen running on asphalt road
at Salt Works described as “ like snowy plover but with conspicuously yellow
legs.” (Frater Candidas in Voous).
Snowy Plover
Charadrius alexandrinus nesting- First young of 2001 seen dashing
along salt pan along road to Cai, 8 June, 2001. Comically, one second you
notice 3 or 4, like balls of cotton on disproportionably long legs dashing
about, then look again, and you see nothing. They hunker down next to a tiny
rock or piece of wood and flatten out, and are very difficult to find.
Winter records: 4 observed across from mariculture center near Sorobon,
29 Dec., 01, few other winter sightings, (JCL, J&A Watson, D Preter).
First spring records of 2002, 16 April, along old salt pan along road into
Cai, when 3 individuals were seen feeding in the foam along edge of pan, (JCL).
First nest of 2002 with eggs, 10 May, when nest with 3 eggs found along road
just past Goto Lake, (JCL) First young out of nest on 18 May,2002, Salinas
Cay (G. en Yoeke) Double nesting appears evident with a nest with 2 eggs found
on 9 July,2002, along same section of roadway of mudflats just past Gotomeer,
(JCL). Adult observed sneaking away from nest and giving broken wing behavior,
29 July, 2002, and nest discovered with 2 eggs within 6 feet of paved road
in the mudflats along Goto Lake. A few individual, 6, still seen along shore
of Goto, 26 Sept., 2002, (JCL).
Collared Plover Charadrius collaris
?nesting record for 1892; recent records, 1 July, 1997, when 3 seen on
mud flats across from Harbour Village Marina; another seen 8 July, 1998 along
road in to Cai (JCL, J. Lanier, D. Preker). One seen
along shoreline at Lagoen during mid-July, 2001 (JCL, C. Powell). Name
is a fib to its true character of NOT having a collar around neck, and is
the only Charadrius plover without this characteristic. Two seen at Playa Frans, 17 May, 2002 (G. en Yoeke).
American Golden Plover
Pluvialis dominica winter visitor - N A. One in eclipse plumage
seen at salina Slagbaii, 26 Sept., 1997, (JCL).
Black-bellied Plover (Grey)
Pluvialis squatarola winter visitor - N. A. Recorded every month
of year, but more numerous on passage, Sept., -Oct., and May, (Voous, 1983);
known as Grey Plover in Europe. During morning
of birding, 29 Dec., 2001, 15 observed in Cai/Sorobon area, (JCL, J&A
Watson, D. Preter); four seen morning of birding at Cai mangroves, 5 March,
2002, (JCL).Breeding plumaged bird seen in fresh water pond along side road
near airport, 21 April, 2002, while others seen that day were still in gray
winter plumage(JCL). Six individuals seen along mangroves, Cai, 26 Sept.,
2002.
SANDPIPERS,
Scholopacidae
Red Knot Calidris canutus winter
visitor - N. A. Greenish legs, short bill, chunky body. Prefers saline shorelines,
especially along south end of Bonaire, Pekelmeer. Confirmed
sightings are 3 on 9th July, 2001, 1 on 11th at Pekelmeer
and 1 on 13th and 15th at Sorobon, (C. Powell). 1 on
12 Sept., 2002 on margin of mangrove marsh, Cai,, with definite greenish legs
and reddish on head with lighter red on upper throat, (JCL).
Sanderling Calidris alba non-br.
visitor - N. A. Observed at least 15 during birding
morning of 29 Dec., 2001 (JCL, J&A Watson, D. Preter).
Semipalmated Sandpiper
Caladris pusilla non-br. visitor - N. A. One observed along shore of Gotomeer, 3 March, 2002. Much grayer
in coloration with slight brownish necklace, (JCL, C. Powell); another, same
site, 3 Apr., 2002, (JCL). Trip report lists this species as follows: 30 on
the 5th July, 2001, 28 on 11th July, 23 on 15 July.
All identified at Pekelmeer and many were photographed at close range for
aid in identification, (C. Powell)
xWestern Sandpiper
Calidris mauri non-br. visitor - N. A. Recent
records: 1 on 9th July, 2001 and 2 on 11th July, Pekelmeer
area, (C. Powell). Largest proportion of peeps here in winter is this species,
with Least being a close second. Hundreds examined where Western on shoreline
of salina across from H. Village Marina, 24, 25, Sept., 2002, (JCL).
Least Sandpiper
Caladris minutilla non-br. visitor - N. A. Quite
common, 40 seen morning of birding along the mangroves and across from mariculture
center near Sorobon, 29 Dec, 2001, (JCL, J & A Watson, D. Preker). Numbers
definitely increasing during March, 2002, as 40 or so found along shore of
Gotomeer 1st week March, 2002 (JCL).
White-rumped Sandpiper
Caladris funscicollia winter visitor - N.A. -In late spring
in bright rufous breeding colors, other times conspicuous white rump is evident
when flying and seen in almost every flock of peeps. Flock of 11 observed
feeding In salina across from Harbour Village Marina, 12 May,2000, (JCL).
Among literally hundreds of “peeps” on shallow
salina across from Harbour Village Marina, at least 3 seen 25 Sept., 2002,
Like Bairds, white-rumped has wing extension beyond end of tail when seen
feeding, then after flying, the white-rump is noticed, (JCL).
Baird's Sandpiper Caladris bardii
winter visitor - N. A. MAY be distinguished from other “peeps” by wing
length longer than tail tip when seen probing for food in mud, (JCL, L. Sall),
however, Nov., 2001 communication with Prof. Voous indicates that he is not
convinced. Both “new” field guides, one by Kaufmann, the other by Sibley,
both mention this characteristic.
Pectoral Sandpiper Caladris
melanotos winter visitor - N. A. 2 seen,
Playa Funchi, 1 with rufous colored breeding colors still evident, 18 Sept.,
2002 (JCL, C. & C. Field ); 3 at Cai 21 Sept, 2002, (JCL). As many as
10 seen 23, 24, 25 Sept., 2002, salina across from H. Village Marina, (JCL).
At least 20 seen during rainy spell, first week of Nov. 2002, feeding in freshwater
pools along side roads and streets in Hato region of Kralendijk.
Dunlin Caladris alpina
rare winter visitor - N. A. Not listed in Voous’s 1983 Birds of the
Netherlands Antilles, but is listed in his Field Checklist of the Birds
of Bonaire, 1993, One individual seen by competent
observer along salina at Harbour Village Marina, 31 August, 2002 (D. Walter)
Stilt Sandpiper Micropalama himantopus
winter visitor - N. A. Chestnut cheek patch evident, 6Apr., 2000. Morning
of birding, 1 Nov., 2000, flock of 25 + was seen Gotomeer and at least 10
others seen Playa Frans, (JCL, L. Sall); also large flock numbering around
75 seen Gotomeer Salina, 23 Nov., 2000 (JCL), feeding by spinning in small
circles, phalarope-like, on brine flies floating on surface. Morning of birding revealed around 50 along the road in
front of mariculture center near Sorobon, 29 Dec., 2001, (JCL, J & A Watson,
D. Preter). Four seen on salina across from H. Village Marina 24 Sept., 2002,
(JCL).
Buff-breasted Sandpiper
Tryngites subruficollis 1 record,
Oct. 1970 - N. A.
Common Snipe
Gallinago gallinago winter visitor - N. A. 1 observed on
tiny fresh-water pond, Dos Pos, 20 Feb., 2001 (JCL, D&E Compton); also
one at Mangel, 27 Feb., 2001(D&E Compton). Individual seen walking along sidewalk in Rincon, 6
Nov., 2001, after several moderately heavy rains within prior two weeks (JCL).
Short-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus
grieseus winter visitor N. A. Literature leads one to believe that
most dowitchers seen on Bonaire are of this species. Arrive in August. Around 20 on salina across from H. Village Marina 24 Sept.,
2002, Flying individuals gave loud “ tu tu tu” call, (JCL).
xLong-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus
Scolopaceus winter visitor - N. A.
Note: Two preceding species are thought by some to be the most difficult of all birds to tell apart because of overlapping characteristics of subspecies. Best to try to hear them calling after flying. Short-billed Dowitcher’s call is a whistled tu-tu-tu. Long-billed Dowitcher’s call is a thin keek. However, when these two species are here on Bonaire, rarely do they make any sounds even if flushed. Only heard 2 individuals give flight call once at Boca Slagbaai 24 May, 1998 (JCL).
Hudsonian Godwit Limosa
haemastica rare winter visitor - N. A: 3 old records for Aruba,
Curacao: 1962, 1977, 1979.This author’s first record
for Bonaire 13 Oct., 2000, one seen with 6 Whimbrels on salina across from
Harbour Village Marina; one seen 3 Nov., 2000 on pond near park entrance (JCL);
another seen 21 Sept, 2002, Cai. Another seen feeding with short-billed dowitchers,
salina across from H. Village Marina, 25 Sept., 2002, (JCL).
Whimbrel Numenius , phaeopus
non-br. Visitor- N. A. ; seen in mangroves at Cai. Fall migrants seen
as early as July; infrequently during winter. Two winter plumaged birds observed south of Sorobon area
in a shorebird rich area of shallow salt water overflowing from shrimp mariculture
operation 18 Sept., 2002 (JCL).
Upland Sandpiper Bartramia longicauda
1 record, Aug 1977 - N. A.
Greater Yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca
non-br. visitor - N. A. Less numerous than Lesser Yellowlegs, 1 Nov., 2000
(JCL, L. Sall) Call is loud irritating call of three or four notes: KLEE-KLEE_KLEE
Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes
non-br. visitor - N. A. Call is best for differentiating from Greater. Lesser’s
call is softer, cu-cu.
Solitary Sandpiper Tringa solitaria
non-br visitor - N A. Two seen, 30 Oct., 1998, salina Slagbaai, both with
green legs,(JCL); 2 seen Wash/Slagbaai 18 Sept, 2002
(JCL, C. & C. Field).
Spotted Sandpiper Actitis macularia
non-br. visitor - N. A. Spotted under parts evident April as they become less
numerous.
Willet Catoptrophorus
semipalmatus uncommon non-br visitor - N. A. Quiet unexpectedly found
to be nesting on Los Roques (Phelps in Auk 92, 1975), so nesting on Bonaire
is not to be excluded. Four recent records: 1 oil-soaked bird found dead,
Salina Slagbaai, 12 Sept., 1997; two other sightings for Bonaire all occurring
at Salina Slagbaai were 26 Sept., 1997, 17 July, 1998 (JCL); 1 seen near park
entrance, 11 Nov., 2000 on pond, (L. Akins, L. Whalen). One
bird observed along mangrove-lined road into Cai, 9 March, 2002 (JCL, B. &
L. Benjamin, C. Glendinning); 2 seen across from shrimp mariculture facility,
Sorobon, 18 Sept, 2002 (JCL).
Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres
non-br. visitor - N. A. Leave in May for the far Arctic tunda nesting grounds,
start returning in mid-August.
xRed Phalarope Phalaropus fulicaria
rare visitor winter N.A., 1 record for Bonaire, Playa Frans, 7 Nov., 1999
(JCL, C. Herzfeld)
Wilson's Phalarope Phalaropus
tricolor rare winter visitor – N.A. 3 records: Jan 1970,1971, March
1979; two individuals seen by American Birding Association group
of 6 at Gotoomeer while on island tour from Yorktown Clipper Cruise Ship,
5 March, 2002, and seen in good light through telescopes, trip leader (D.
Canterbury).
Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus
lobatus rare winter visitor – N.A. 2 records, Jan 1979,1971
JAEGERS,
Stercorariidae
Parasitic Jaeger Stercorarius
parasiticus 1 record, 7 Mar., 1998 (JCL), an Injured bird, an immature,
dark brown and heavily barred wings and conspicuous sharp-spined central
tail feathers was rehabilitated by local lady, Marlis. Brought In by local
fisherman who report that they are seen far out at sea.
GULLS, Laridae
Laughing Gull Larus atricilla
nesting
Bonaparte's Gull Larus
philadelphia rare visitor - N. A, 1 sight record, Sept, 1959F
Black-headed Gull Larus
ridibundus rare- 1 record, 1976
Ring-billed
Gull Larus delawarensis
rare visitor, 4 records; one recent, a bird seen
by many observers along coast across from the airport as the one-half hour
between connecting flights allowed a group of birders on their way back to
Europe and England from Ecuador to positively identify this one individual,
June, 2002 (R. Bartlett)
Herring Gull Larus argentatus
casual visitor- N. A.; 1 record for Bonaire, a single bird
observed on dirt embankment of small pond alongside road east of Rincon, 21 July, 2000 (JCL, J. Lanier, B. Stefy)
TERNS, Sternidae
Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica
passage migrant, - N. A., 9 records on Bonaire from 1962 to 1981. Recent
reord, one bird with all dark head, conspicuous large bill, solid black, resting
in salina across from Harbour Village Marina, 23 Sept., 2002, (JCL). Because
of its gull-like appearance probably often overlooked, (Voous)
xCaspian Tern Sterna
caspia rare visitor - N. A. 2 records, 1970; occasionally seen on salina
across from Harbour Village Marina and told from more common Royal Tern by
larger size, and more black on under wing tips rather than black wingtips
on upper wing surface as in Royal, (JCL).
Royal Tern Sterna maxima
nesting. Common, especially in Lac Cai, Sorobon area.
Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis
nesting; In most South Caribbean breeding birds, known as Yellow-billed Sandwich
or Cayenne Tern, bill is straw-yellow, exceptionally orange, in others yellowish
marked with variable amount of black, particularly at base of bill; in still
others black predominates and even whole bill may be black with only tip yellow,
(Voous, 1983). One individual, first sighting of year seen at Sorobon, 20
March, 2001, with flock of Royals and Laughing gulls had all yellow bill (JCL).
First sighting of 2002, (D & E Compton), March 23, Pekelmeer
area, one individual, with all yellow bill.
Roseate Tern Sterna
dougalli nesting recorded In only two sites, Pekelmeer and Goto, (Voous).
First found nesting on Aruba, 1892 and not rediscovered nesting until 1961
in same location, (Voous). No recent evidence of
nesting on Bonaire, (JCL).
Common Tern Sterna hirundo
nesting. Usually arriving in early April, leaving in late Nov., nesting at
salina Slagbaai but no more than 3 or 4 at nests, June, 1998, (JCL); examined
photo taken by K. Muenz, 15 March, 2001, of an immature at the beach at Plaza
Hotel, which shows the black margin of the leading edge of the wing as well
as the over-all smaller size and black bill and feet as compared to nearby
Royal Terns (JCL). First sighting of 2002, Sorobon,
one immature with Royal Terns, 23 March, (D & E Compton).
Bridled Tern Sterna anaethetus non-br.
visitor - N. A. Breeds in Aruba in small numbers and on Los Aves, Roques,
Characteristic seabird of offshore zone, feeding regularly as far as 30 nautical
miles off land, (Voous).
Sooty Tern Sterna fuscata breeding ?
r - N. A. Oceanic, except Apr.,-Aug., (nesting: young in fully black plumage,
seen 30 Apr., 1979, Bonaire). No recent records of nesting on Bonaire, 2002,
(JCL). No more than 14 records away from Aruba nesting site. May be common
offshore where it can be separated from similar Bridled Tern by Sooty’s habit
of soaring high above horizon out on the sea, (Voous).
Least Tern Sterna albifrons nesting;
first occurrence for the year heard on 17 Apr., 1998 (JCL, J Lanier) and 19
Apr., 2000 (JCL, S. Stapert); nesting in numbers less that 12, July, 1997,
salina Slagbaai, nests in other locations, along rocky coasts in Washington/Slagbaai
National Park in great numbers (JCL).Earliest arrivals, 21 April, 2002, when a flock of 7 were observed
at Lagoen (JCl, D. Walter).
Black Tern Chlidonias niger rare visitor
- N. A.
Black Noddy Anous minutus rare
visitor - Caribbean--- 1 record, 1952. Recently,
summer 2001, a bird was found in back yard and was the first one seen in 35
years of birding on Bonaire, (B. Lusse).
xBrown Noddy Anous stolidus rare visitor-
Caribbean, possibly roosting on cliffs at Malmouk lighthouse; 1 seen flying
along shoreline, east coast, near Seru Grandi, 1 Sept., 2000 (JCL) One individual observed flying along shoreline south of the
shrimp mariculture facility, 21 Oct., 2002 (JCL).
SKIMMERS,
Rynchopidae
Black Skimmer Rynchops nigra
rare, from S.A,1 record, April, 1979, Lac, (Voous).
HAWKS, Accipitridae
White-tailed Kite Elanus
leucurus rare visitor - S A.
Swallow-tailed Kite Elanoides
forficatus rare. One record of a single
bird observed flying along highway in residential area of Nord Salina, northern
Kralendijk, 26 April, 2002 (G. en Yoeke). Excellent description of a “beautiful
bird, white with black back and rear wing-lining and long, scissor-shaped
black tail.” This species has been seen in the Caribbean, Central America
as well as residing in southern North America and South America, so, it would
be impossible to tell the origin of this particular individual.
White-tailed Hawk Buteo albicaudatus
now extirpated? previous nester, no confirmation by this author but has been
reported in the Washikemba area.
OSPREY, Panadionidae
Osprey Pandion haliatus
non-br. visitor - N. A. almost always to be found,
but more common in winter, where 4 to 10 can be seen on almost any morning
of birding along the coasts, (JCL).Only one seen in suitable coastal area on morning of birding,
9 April 2002, (JCL).
CARACARAS AND FALCONS
Falconidae
Yellow-headed Caracara Milvago chimachima
1 record-1996, Christmas week, mangroves at Cai
Crested Caracara Polyborus plancus
nesting- formerly common, decreasing in numbers in recent years- 9 Jan., 1998
a total of 10 individuals were seen during the day and 6 were together in
one flock; most likely observed in Boca Slagbaai Park, where feeding on lizards
by walking on ground. Reports heard of multiple individuals observed to be
harassing very young goats trying to hide in dense tangle of thornbrush.
Possibly kills and eats such prey items (JCL). Pair observed copulating 25
March, 2001 near Santa Barbara, (JCL). Observed fully adult overtake Red-necked Pigeon in flight and
knock it to the ground and immediately land on it and began to pluck feathers
from the still-alive pigeon and to eat it, 14 March, 2002, at Dos Pos, (JCL)
Pigeon appeared too large for the caracara to fly off with because it drug
the struggling pigeon into the brush. Seldom observed behavior is one of
a pair throwing head back and making cackling sound and noted several times
at site in Peaceful Canyon where a pair is frequently seen. Not to be confused
with courtship, but indicates perceived threat (J. Eberhard, per. comm.). Morning of birding within the park revealed 3 birds, all with
brown coloration on neck, indicating immature birds, 18 Sept,2002, (JCL,
American Kestrel Falco sparverius
rare on Bonaire, 3 records; fairly common nester on Aruba, Curacao, rest
of West Indies. Bonaire-one bird seen hovering at Pekelmeer, 12 May,
1960 (members of the Florida Audubon Society); others at Pekelmeer, 28 July,
1973 (JR), and 8 March, 1980 (FCL and Peggy Boyer).
Merlin Falco columbarius winter
visitor -N.A. 5 recent records: 17 Oct., 1997; 30 Jan., 1998; 6 Mar., 1998;
14 Oct., 1998, one found dead, Rincon; 14 Oct., Cai mangroves (S. Stapert);
1 Apr., 1999, first of year 2000, 1 Nov., near Playa Frans, a single bird,
(JCL, L Sall). Marlis, local who rehabilitates injured birds of all types,
found an unidentified bird of prey, emaciated and unable to fly but with no
apparent injuries in Subadeco region, north of Kralendijk, on 11 Dec., 2000.
Size and darker barring on tail helped proved it was this species and not
Peregrine Falcon. It was a male, beginning to show bluish feathers on back
and after initially refusing any food, it began to eat chicken livers and
seems to be recovering. Pellets found on climb up Mount Brandaris by S. Stapert,
10 Feb., 2001, most likely of the diameter to be this species and small bones
of birds were found as contents. One individual
along Gotomeer, 27 March, 2002, (JCL).
x Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus uncommon
winter visitor - N.A-- recorded between 15 Sept., and 2 May-- recent records
include individuals observed on following dates-17 Oct., 1997; 21 Nov., 1997;
28 Nov., 1997; 18 Mar., 1999; 26 Mar., 1999; 17 Oct., 1 Nov., 2000, 3 Nov.,
2000 (JCL); two seen soaring near each other over Sand Dollar Dive Shop, 19
Nov., 2000 (JCL, J. Lanier) single bird observed feeding on captured White-tipped
Dove, 23Nov., 2000, (JCL). Several (6-8) during
winter/spring ‘01/’02; birds seen 3 April, 9 April 2002, (JCL).
PIGEONS AND DOVES,
Columbidae
Red-necked Pigeon Columba squamosa
nesting Found only in the Greater and Lesser Antilles.
Bare-eyed Pigeon Columba corensis
nesting Found only along Caribbean coasts of Northern S. A.
Eared Dove Zenaida auriculata
nesting. Found in S.A, southern Caribbean, and southernmost Lesser Antilles
Common Ground Dove Columbigallina passerina
nesting- perhaps most common bird on Bonaire.
Ruddy Ground Dove Columbigallina talpacoti
1 record 1980 – S.A.
White-tipped Dove Leptorila verreauxi
nesting
Rock Dove Columba
livia nesting
PARAKEETS AND PARROTS, Psittacidae
Caribbean
Parakeet (Brown-throated) Aratinga pertinax xanthogenius
2 nests located Ap., 2000 both excavated in active termitary (JCL). Pairs
of adults seen at two termitary in W/S National Park, 11 and 13 Jan., perhaps
were examining potential nest sites, (JCL); nest in hollow tree with entry
surrounded by termite mound found 24 April, 2001, near dive site, Jeff Davis
Memorial, (largest tree along shoreline) and one adult flew from entrance
and both adults were very reluctant to leave site; Family groups of 4 commonly
counted during mid-May, 2001 (JCL). During last half of July,2002, several aggregations of parakeets
were observed to be gathered together feeding a young bird, and in some cases,
two young were observed being fed and giving a peculiar begging call, wing
flapping behavior that immediately alerted me to them. This begging by young
of the year persisted into the middle of Sept., 2002,showing a rather lengthy
dependency of the young toward the adults (JCL).
Yellow-shouldered Parrot Amazona
barbadensis rothschildi nesting, endangered, population counts in 1997,
1998, 2002, around 350- 400 in wild, perhaps 3x this number held as captive
birds in cages. One must not miss the extravagance of parrots that feed on
the ripening mangoes at Dos Pos at sunrise, starting In June each year and
lasting until all the mangoes are eaten, sometime in July or early August.
Strong evidence of nesting in holes in cliff face between Karpata and Rincon,
May, 2001 (JCL); flock of 65 returned to roosting in grove of trees along extreme northeastern
edge of Kralendijk during last week of February, 2002, after cessation of
rain, (JCL). A flock residing in the Gotomeer region was counted during the
island wide parrot count on January 26,2002, after an interruption of 3 years
of counting. This flock numbered 75 in 1998, and 95 during the current count.
The roost site was still being used as of 11 March, 2002, but only by 25 individuals
that came in at sunset 18:43, (JCL, C. Glendinning). Evening of 13 March,
2002, roosting population down to only 10 individuals (JCL, D & E Compton).
None coming in to roost on evening of 8 April,2002, (JCL).
CUCKOOS, ,
Cuculidae
x Yellow-billed Cuckoo Coccyzus americanus
winter visitor - N. A. Every Oct., birds are found in weakened state, some
floundering just offshore in water, and many dead found on ground during Oct.,
Nov., 1997. Largest number seen on one trip was 8 as we drove in to Playa
Frans, 7 Nov., 1997, (JCL, C. Herzfeld). Two individuals
seen on 1 Nov., 2001 and one found dead along road. Both individuals appeared
to be in weakened condition as they weakly flew from middle of highway.
On 2 Nov., 2001, 6 individuals were seen during a
1.5 mile bird walk near Dos Pos, all apparently in strong flight. One came
in to water sprinkler there but did not bathe (JCL). Most likely a flight
of this species came onto the island during the first 2 days of the month,
and with a couple of days rest, apparently recovered fully and continued on
with migration to South America, (JCL). One individual seen Dos Pos, 26 Sept.,
2002, (JCL).
Mangrove Cuckoo Coccyzus minor
rare visitor - S. A, Little is known of this unobtrusive and quietly moving
species, (Voous).
Gray-capped Cuckoo Coccyzus lansbergi
visitor from – S. A. 1 record, Oct., 1981, Nikiboko, a wounded female caught
by local school teacher. Specimen in Zoological Museum Amsterdam, (Voous).
Grove-billed
Ani Crotophaga sulcirostris nesting and
seen very irregularly almost anywhere on island except mangroves, (JCL).
Observed one, in flock of seven, with tail of Cnemidophorus murinus ruthveni
, Bonarian Whiptail lizard, hanging out 2 cm. from mouth, 7 Nov, 1999, (JCL).
On 19 June, 2001, in Rincon a flock of three were observed trying to catch
small Anolis bonariensis, which one of the flock finally caught and
ate, (JCL).
OWLS, Tytonidae
Barn Owl Tyto alba nesting not confirmed, but frequent
sightings, photo,( M. Nahr). Pellets
found contained remains of bats (JCL, 1998); one Individual was watched as it lit on road at Dos Pos at sunset, 7 June, 2000 (Jennifer and Lynn Mather). One found recently killed along Rincon highway 13 Oct., 2000 (JCL).
NIGHTJARS AND NIGHTHAWKS, Caprimulgidae
White-tailed
Nightjar Caprimulgus cayennensis nesting.
Can be found along dirt roads at night especially on outskirts of town
where last streetlights provide a bit of privacy and light enough to attract
moths and other insects that attract the nightjars, especially dependably
seen on microwave hill above village of Rincon. Bonaireans call it ‘palabrua’
meaning black magic bird referring to bright reddish eye shine reflected by
light at night. Nest with 2 pinkish eggs found on bare ground, female gave
a feeble broken-wing ploy, Apr., 30, 2000 (JCL); two almost fully feathered
young on same nest, female gave the best broken-wing act to try to decoy
us away, 19 May, 2000, (JCL) ,1 week later only evidence of nesting was the
clean, bare space where the nest site was located. Perhaps same female nested
again within 12 feet of April 30th nest, again with 2 eggs and same behavior
with the broken-wing act, 21 July, 2000, (JCL, J. Lanier, B. Steffy). Six
observed at the street lights on microwave hill overlooking Rincon, 26 Feb.,
(JCL, D & E Compton). On 19 June, 2001, a female gave broken-wing act
at identical site where female nested twice in succession during Apr-July,
2000. A young bird was discovered nearby which flew a short distance and
landed, then walked into cactus-dominated area where it disappeared. This
was only evidence of nesting during the dry year of 2001 (JCL). Only
two individuals seen at Microwave Hill site, night of 28 March, 2002 (JCL,
D & E Compton).
Chuck-will's Widow Caprimulgus
carolinensis 1 record, Nov., 1981, visitor from - N. A.
Lesser Nighthawk Chordeiles
acutipennisrare visitor 1 record, Oct., 1979
- S.A.
Common Nighthawk Chordeiles minor
rare visitor – N. A. One individual observed at dusk near tennis courts,
Harbour Village Marina, 14 June, 2000 (JCL).
SWIFTS, Apodidae
Chimney Swift Chaetura peligica
2 sight records, 1975,1979 rare visitor- N.A. An
undetermined species of Chaetura was observed and photographed in
Wash/Slagbaai National Park, 12 July, 2001, (C. Powell).
HUMMINGBIRDS, Trochillidae
xRuby-Topaz
Hummingbird Chrysolampis mosquitus nesting.
Can occur in large groups of 8 or 10 whenever favorite flowers trees are evident
as on 14 Oct., when white flowers of Cordia sp. .Nest under construction
30 Nov., 2001, but one week later proved to be a failed attempt, at Dos Pos
on a terminal limb of a mango tree about 10 feet above ground (JCL)
Common Emerald Hummingbird Chlorostilbon meliisugus
nesting. Found nest on shoulder high stump of cactus used as fence along road
at Dos Pos, 6 Dec., 1998, with 2 young, (JCL, D. and S. Fried); nest found along rim road, Peaceful Canyon, by guest Charlotte
Sharp, during morning of birding, 3 April, 2002 (JCL, M. & C. Sharp),
female on nest with 2 eggs Two eggs still unhatched on 9 April, 2002. Nest
partly destroyed, eggs gone, no female in sight morning of 21 April 02 after
week of heavy rain (JCL, D. Walter).
KINGFISHERS,
Alcedinidae ,
Belted Kingfisher Ceryle alcyon winter
visitor-N.A. recorded between 11 Sept., and 4 May. Four seen 1 Nov., 2000
(JCL, L. Sall)
WOODPECKERS,
Picidae
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Sphyrapicus varius
rare winter visitor – N. A. :1 record 4-12 Dec, 1976
TYRANT FLYCATCHERS, Tyrannidae
Caribbean Elaenia Elaenia
martinica nesting. Least numerous of resident tyrant-flycatchers
on Bonaire. Last specimen on Aruba was collected in 1930, but most likely
still can be found on all three islands, (Voous, 1983). Pair carrying nesting
material, Dos Pos, 27 July, 1998, (JCL). Morning of birding, 20 Feb., 2001,
as many as 6 seen around Dos Pos area, (JCL). During
spring of birding, around 5 seen per morning in northern sections of island
where birding activity is most frequent. Observed 3 young following adult
just inside Peaceful Canyon rim, 9 April, 2002, (JCL, D. Walter, R & R
Coleburn).
Lesser Elaenia Elaenia
chiriquensis ? nesting. Unable to determine status
on Bonaire, (JCL).
Smooth (Scrub) Flycatcher Sublegatus
modestus nesting. At least 3 immature being fed by adults,
Bronswinkel, 8 Sept., 1998, (JCL).
Note: quite a problem
in identification are these 3 species, but overall, look for the elanias to
have base of lower bill light-colored, and a fainter yellow on the abdomen,
and a fairly conspicuous white stripe at mid-crest, especially when agitated;
Smooth Flycatcher’s bill is solid black, and deeper yellow on abdomen and
sharper demarcation between gray of upper breast and yellow of abdomen. Smooth
looks like a miniature Brown-crested Flycatcher, but without the Rufus tail
feathers, and crest. Call note of Lesser Elaenia is a “thin ‘peer-weer , resembling
Scrub Flycatcher’s call and totally different from the loud, whistling call
note of Caribbean Eleania.” (Voous, 1983). ). Individual
sitting on small, very tidy nest astraddle a 2-inch (5 cm) thick limb of mesquite
about 4 meters (13 ft) above the ground at head of Peacefull Canyon, 29 Nov.,
2001 (JCL).
Eastern Wood Pewee
Contopus virens winter visitor – N. A. 2 old records, Oct., 1979,
May, 1980.Recent record, 27 Sept., 2002, an individual
seen feeding low in acacia, seemed much more alert than similar-sized scrub
with active head movements scanning for insects, also no bright yellow on
abdomen as scrub, (JCL).
Olive-sided Flycatcher Contopus
boreaffs -rare winter visitor - N.A. 2 records, 4 May, 1961; one came
in to sprinkler, Dos Pos, 5 May, 2001, (JCL).
Brown-crested Flycatcher Myriarchus tyrannulus
nesting. One observed feeding on red fruit of ‘manzalina bobo’, Metopium
brownie, which is toxic to humans, 10 July, 1997; at least 10 seen along
a typical drive through Wash/Slagbaii park flying across dirt road, 3 Oct.,
1997, (JCL). Bright lemon yellow of lower abdomen and conspicuous brown crest
with longish, rufous tail, and fairly large size, are all good field marks.
xStreaked Flycatcher
Myiodynastes maculatus rare visitor-SA. Listed on Voous’ Field Checklist
of the Birds of Bonaire, revised, 1993, but, no details available and
no apparent recent records .
Tropical Kingbird Tyrannus
melancholicus nesting previously. First record in at least six years,
13 July, 2000 (JCL, S. Stapert), a pair seen at freshwater pond, alongside
road, near park entrance. Bright yellow breast very evident. Not to be confused
with Brown-crested Flycatcher, which prefers more wooded habitats, and much
different overall appearance and habits, This and Fork-tailed Flycatcher appear
to be highly dependent on locally wet years with heavy precipitation and suitable
open areas over fresh-water ponds where they can be seen hawking for insects
from exposed perches. Another sighting of a single
bird was recorded on 16 July, 2001, along highway in front of Habitat, (JCL).
Grey Kingbird Tyrannus
dominicensis nesting;i common, but easily mistaken for Tropical Mockingbird.
Eastern Kingbird
Tyrannus tyrannus I record, Oct., 1977-rare - NA.
Fork-tailed Flycatcher
Muscivora tyrannus occasional straggler from S.A.; 2 birds observed,
Dos Pos, 15 June,2000 S. Stapert; another individual seen a few weeks earlier
in Sorobon area by same observer. Another sighting of a pair, 13 July, 2000
(JCL, S, Stapert), at fresh-water pond near park entrance. These individuals,
likely sub-adults, did not have conspicuously long, forked tails of adults,
but more normal sized tall feathers, Head conspicuously black They were observed
to be feeding with a pair of Tropical Kingbirds, also quite uncommon, in open
areas over water and around the edge of the pond and both species were observed
to be hawking from their exposed perches to catch large Insects, often landing
on open ground to pursue prey. Sighting of both species, Tropical Kingbird
and Fork-tailed Flycatcher, were the first on Bonaire by the author in 6 years
of birding. As this site began to dry up during fall, 2000, Tropical Kingbird
was no longer seen and Fork-tailed Flycatcher last seen 3 Nov., (L. Sall),
and with conspicuously long tail feathers. Another Fork-tail Flycatcher was seen along the coast across
highway from the airport by an ardent birder from England who had some time
before his departure flight, and used this time wisely, 15 July, 2001 (C.
Powell).
SWALLOWS AND MARTINS
Hirundinidae
Bank Swallow Riparia riparia visitor
- N. A. More common in fall, rare in spring; one observed in flock of Barn
Swallows at Gotomeer, 24 April, 2001 (JCL).
Rough-winged Swallow Steligidopteryx
ruficolis 1 record, 1979-rare visitor - N. A.
Caribbean Martin Progne dominicensis
fall, spring - West Indies. Four records from Bonaire, earliest,
7 May, 1966.
Purple Martin Progne subis fall,
spring - N. A. Voous mentions that only field observations of male with uniform
dark underparts accepted because of similarity to preceding species. Records
for Bonaire: May, 1961, 1962.
Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica fall,
winter, spring - N. A; quite common during migration.
First fall migrants seen in July, 2002 (JCL). Still migrating through on 9
April, 2002.
xCliff Swallow Hirundo pyrrhonota
fail, spring -N.A. Three seen Slagbaai salina, 24 Oct., 1997 flying with
large flock of Barn Swallows; 5 or 6 seen flying over Sand Dollar Dive Shop,
18 Nov., 1997, (JCL).
MOCKINGBIRDS, THRASHERS,
Mimidae
Tropical Mockingbird Mimulus gilvus nesting, flock
of 7 coming to watering at Dos Pos, 6 April, 2002, (JCL).
Pearly-eyed Thrasher Margarops
fuscatus nesting, easily seen at watering time, Dos Pos; at other
times rather difficult unless you learn the beautiful song that I compare
to a violist tuning up before a performance, i.e., song is composed of short
phrases, then a pause, then another short phrase, then another pause, etc..(JCL).
THRUSHES,
Turdidae
Northern Wheatear 0enanthe oenanthe 1 record,
Dec., 1975 rare visitor - N. A.
Swaison's Thrush Catharus ustulatus fall,
spring - N. A.
Gray-cheeked Thrush Catharus minimus fall, spring
- N. A. One individual seen feeding on ground, Put Mangel, 24 Oct., 1997;
3 seen 14 Oct., 2000, Bronswinkel, (JCL).
Veery Catharus fuscescens
) uncommon visitor - N. A. 4 records, Oct., 1975, Nov.,
1979; Oct., 1997, 1998 (JCL.
STARLINGS,
Sternidae
Common Starling Sternus vulgaris rare,
1 record, Nov., 1980
WEAVERS,
Passeridae
House Sparrow Passer domesticus introduced,
nesting, increasing populations. First observation for 1000 Steps, single
bird observed 8 Dec., 2000 and at Boca Slagbaai, 13 Jan., 2001, considered
to be inhabiting entire island (JCL).
VIREOS, Vireonidae
Red-eyed Vireo Vireo olivaceus occasional
visitor -N. A. Bird of this species found recently dead in front of Capt Don’s
Habitat, 13 Sept., 2002, (JCL).
xBlack-whiskered Vireo Vireo altiloquus nesting.
Pair came to spraying water at Dos Pos during arid month of March, 2001 also
frequently during rest of arid summer and also on 5 October, (JCL). Observed nest in late stages of construction, 29 Nov., 2001
at head of Peacefull Canyon, and an adult sitting on nest, 1Dec., 2001 (JCL);
dependable at Dos Pos and at other wooded sites like Fontein, March, 2002,
(JCL).
WOOD WARBLERS,
Parulidae
Black-and-White Warbler Mniotila varia
.- migrant and winter - N. A. 14 records, mostly Oct.
Golden-winged Warbler Vermivora chrysoptera migrant
and winter - N. A; not listed in Voous, 1983, but on Field Checklist of the
Birds of Bonaire, revised, 1993.
Tennessee Warbler Vermivora peregrina
4 records, April, 1977 Nov., 1977, 1981,-migrant and winter - N.A.
Northern Parula Warbler Parula Americana 6
records, mostly Oct., 1979, 1981, 2 records for Apr.,
1964, 1978-migrant
and winter - N. A.
Magnolia Warbler Dendroica magnolia
rare migrant and winter - N. A. No listing in Voous’s Birds of Netherlands
Antilles, 1983, but listed in Voous’s Field Checklist of the Birds of
Bonaire, revised, 1993; 1 record, a female, 27 Feb., 2001 at Bronswinkel,
(D&E Compton).
Yellow Warbler Dendroica petechia
nesting, resident. Typical half day afield, one should encounter 35 to
40 individuals; not like N. A. yellow warblers in that the adult males in
the West Indies have reddish caps on their heads (JCL).
Chestnut-sided Warbler Dendroica pennsylvanica
-migrant and winter - N. A. 1 old record Nov., 1977;
more recently a molting male photographed and reported to me
as being seen near Salina Martjis with in Washington/Slagbaai National Park,
25 Mar., 2001, (J. & A. Wells).
Cerulean Warbler Dendroica cerulea 2
records, Oct, 1975,1979-migrant and winter- N.A.
Black-throated Blue Warbler Dendroica caerulescens
migrant and winter - N. A. 3 fall records, Nov., 1975, 2
in Oct., 1977- one female came in to bathe, Dos Pos, 10 April, 2001 (JCL);
2 different females again came in to splashing water at Dos Pos, 24 April,
2001, (JCL)
xBlack-throated Green Warbler Dendroica
virens few records-May, 1962, 1976; April,1999, Mangel,
(JCL)migrant
and winter - N. A. (Caution- fall sight records should be carefully described
because of possible confusion with similar fall warblers.
Blackburnian Warbler Dendroica
fusca -migrant and winter - N. A. Apr., 1958, 1975, Nov.,
1971, Oct., 1981; one encountered at Dos Pos 23 Dec., 2000 was obviously male
with orangish-yellow head (JCL, D. Wille); another immature male came in to
bathe at water sprinkler, Dos Pos, 26 May 01 (JCL).
Cape May Warbler Dendroica
tigrina 2 records, Apr., 1976,1977 migrant and winter - N. A.
(Caution- fall records
should be carefully described)
Yellow-rumped Warbler Dendroica
coronata migrant and winter - N. A. 2 records, Apr., 1977; one adult
male came in to bathe under splashing water at Dos Pos, 24 April, 2001, (JCL).
Blackpoll Warbler Dendroica
striata common migrant and winter – N,A. Be aware of the confusion
created by fall warblers with prominent wing-bars: blackpolls have faintly
streaked sides of breast, white undertail coverts, bright wing-bars. Many
records for Bonaire, over 100 observed Oct., 1998 (JCL). Most common migratory
warbler in fall. First fall blackpoll for 2001
was a single bird at Dos Pos that came in to bathe, 5 October; also, for 2002,
first blackpoll was on 14 Oct seen along the northern end of promenade, Kralendijk,
(JCL).
Bay-breasted Warbler Dendroica
castanea 3 records, 2 In Oct., 1959,1981, Apr., 1978- migrant and
winter - N. A.
(Caution-buff undertail coverts and flanks of autumn birds must be seen to
avoid confusion with autumn Blackpolls)
American Redstrart Setophaga
rusticilla autumn- winter visitor- N. A. - common, but less so than Blackpoll
in autumn; One bird observed along Tolo trail, 1 Oct., 1997 (JCL, L. Sall);
first of year, 1 bird, 4 Sept., 2000, Put Mangel (JCL); a single female seen
and described by S. Stapert on 20 April., 2001, and perhaps the same female
verified on following day at same location, Andrea 1 dive location, (JCL);
bright adult male came in to splashing water at Dos Pos, 24 April, 2001, (JCL).
A male seen morning of 12 April, 2002, along edge
of thick grove of trees in Hato region, and a female observed along north
road near Boca di Diablo, 13 April, 2002 (JCL).
Ovenbird Seiurus aurocapillus
14 fairly old records, all pre-1983-migrant and winter- N.A. One recent record, 22 Oct., 2002, when one individual was seen
by visiting scientists attending ocean conservation conference, Dos Pos.
Northern Waterthrush Seiurus
noveboracensis common migrant and winter – N. A. more common during
wet winters, especially around fresh water ponds in northern part of island.
Single bird came in to sprinkler, first week of Nov., 2001 (JCL).
One observed morning of birding along mangroves near Cai/Sorobon, 29 Dec.,
2001 (JCL, J & A Watson, D. Preker); records on March 3, 2002 at Fontein,
one individual, and one at Dos Pos, 5 March, 2002, (JCL). Another individual,
feeding under thick canopy in grove of trees in Hato, 13 April, 2002, and
an individual sighted at Fontein every time it is visited, as again on 10
April, 2002, (JCL).
Louisiana Waterthrush Seiurus
motacilla rare migrant and winter - N. A. (Caution-
salmon buff flanks, pink legs must be confirmed to avoid mistaking
this from more common Northern Waterthrush); reliable records few.
xProthonotary Warbler Protonotaria
citrea -migrant and winter - N. A. numerous records, mainly fall;
1, Oct, 1997, and 2, Nov., 1999; Mar., 2000 (B.Rosensteil); 1 Cai mangroves,
21Dec., 2000 (JCL); one, bright spring male at Dos Pos, 24 Feb., 2001 (JCL);
and one on 24 March, 2001, Lac, Cai, (Jeff Wells); first
fall warbler of 2001 was a bird, 17 September (J. Eberhard). First fall warbler
seen in 2002, again was a prothonotary at Put Bronswinkel, 18 Sept., 2002
(JCL, C&C Field).
Kentucky Warbler Oporornis formosus
- migrant and winter - N. A. mainly fail migrant and winter - N.A; less
than a dozen records, all prior to 1983
Connecticut Warbler Oporornis
agifls -migrant and winter - N. A. at least 20 records, pre-1980;
1 for 1 Oct 1997, (JCL , L. Sall)
Hooded Warbler Wilsonia citrina
migrant from N.A. Approximately a dozen records, pre-1980; 1,
March, 1997, Dos Pos (JCL); 1 on 4 April, 2001, at Dos Pos, (E. Mueller)
An interesting characteristic for this beautiful warbler is the prominent
large eye, standing out boldly on the bright yellow face. One study showed
that the Hooded’s eye size to be the largest among 32 species of warbler analyzed,
a characteristic related to its preference for deeply shaded habitats where
it nests in N. A. and where one is most likely to find it on migration here
on Bonaire. (Warblers, by Jon Dunn and Kimball Garrett, 1997).
One male observed coming to watering at Dos Pos, 3 March, 2002, (JCL, C. Powell);
perhaps same individual seen by American Birding Association tour at Dos Pos,
5 March, 2002, trip leader, (D. Canterbury). A female and male came in to sounds of water flowing at Dos
Pos on the evening of 11 March, 2002, (JCL, C. Glendinning); also a male at
same site on 4 April, 2002 (JCL, D. Walter). Individual, male, sighted at
Dos Pos again on 13 April, 2002, (JCL).
Canada Warbler Wilsonia canadensis
migrant and winter - N. A.
Bananaquit
Coereba flaveola nesting resident; Difficult to tell which is most
common bird on Bonaire, this species, Common Ground Dove, or Black-faced Grassquit.
Western Tanager
Piranga ludoviciana First record for Netherlands
Antilles sighted at Playa Frans on morning of 5, July, 2001. Excellent photos
taken, in evening, 5 July, 2001 (J. & A. Wells). No records known for Venezuela,
or the West Indies.
Scarlet Tanager Piranga
olivacea -migrant and winter - N. A. more frequent in spring, 1 Apr., 1998,
(M. Kaiser), 2 Apr., 1998 (E. Schultens); one molting male, reddish-green in
color and very blotchy, seen in W/S National Park, 13 Jan., 2001 (JCL, J. Lanier);
another male, red and yellow in color came in to spraying water at Dos Pos,
during very dry period, 3 Apr., 2001 and a bright red male with black wings
also came in to bathe, 10 April, 2001 (JCL)
Red-legged Honeycreeper
Cyanerpes cyaneus 1 record, 1961
GRASSQUITS, SPARROWS
AND GROSBEAKS, Emberizidae
Saffron Finch Sicalis
flaveola rare nester?
First confirmation of sighting by this author was
morning of 7 March, 2002 in the yard of Kelly Thorp, across from Divi Flamingo
Dive Shop. She related that she had first seen this species in 1994, and that
they were seen carrying nesting material on the previous day. In Venezuela
this species is found throughout the northern half and also on Curacao, (JCL,
W. & J. Dirks). Two birds seen along highway in front of Sand Dollar Condos
were feeding on the ground, 19 August, 2002 for the second locality sighting
on Bonaire, Appears to be an influx of this species as other small groups
have been seen along highway during the last two weeks of August, 2002 (JCL).
xBlack-faced Grassquit Tiaris bicolor
nesting
Blue-black Grassquit Volatinia jacarina
1 record June, 1979-rare visitor - S. A.
Grasshopper Sparrow Ammodramus savannarum
rare nester, no recent records t eggs found in June, 1977 (Voous, 1983).
?Rufous-collared Sparrow Zonotrichia
capensis Curacao, Aruba, Dominican Republic, and Venezuela. Bonaire-introduced,
?, no recent records; 1 for 1978;may no longer be present on Bonaire (JCL).
Rose-breasted Grosbeak
Pheucticus ludovicinus several records, mainly fall, 1 Oct., 1995+, one
bird (D. Gassart) migrant and winter- N. A.
Blue Grosbeak Guiraca caerulea rare
visitor - N. A. ; not listed in Voous, 1983, but in his Field Checklist
of the Birds of Bonaire, 1993.
Indigo Bunting Parrerina cyanea
few records-migrant and winter visitor - N. A: Jan., 1977; Jan-Feb, 1981;one
individual looked like a large reddish, female Black-faced grassquit, and
was feeding on the ground very grassquit like, at Tolo trail, 1 Oct., 1997(JCL).
A bright male was observed in a yard in Subedeco
during the last week of March and on 15 April, 2002 (S. Burns). Being a “beautiful
blue” just about eliminates everything else here on Bonaire (JCL).
BOBOLINKS, GRACKLES
AND AMERICAN ORIOLES
Bobolink Dolichonyx oryzivorus -
migrant - N. A. conspicuous in large flocks, usually
fall; recent records, Oct., 1994, 1996, 1997, Sept., 1998, 1999; Oct., 2000,
a single bird; flock of 50 at Fontein 21 Oct., 2000 (JCL)
Carib Grackle Quiscalus lugubris
resident from S. A. Prior to 1983, Voous considered this species a rare visitor
with only 1 record- now nesting (S. Stapert, 1998) and spreading in distribution.
First sighting in area near Harbour Village Marina, a flock of 5 seen flying
near tennis courts, 8 June, 2000 (JCL). Easily seen nesting in large tree
in front of Blue Ribbon Rice Company, Kralendijk, March, 2001,
(JCL). At least 8 active nests in large ficus tree
outside rice company with adults seen carrying food, 29 Dec., 2001 (JCL, J
& A Watson, D. Preker).
Eastern Meadowlark Sturnella magna - -rare
visitor - N. A 1 record, Nov., 1977
Yellow-hooded Blackbird Agelaius icterocephalus rare
visitor- S.A. 2 records, Jan., 1977, Mar., 1979.
xBaltimore or Northern Oriole Icterus galbula rare
migrant spring and fall -Oct., 1978; May, 1962,; First year female came in to water outside apartment window in
Hato region of Kralendijk, 16 Oct., 2001 for my first island sighting. Had
white underparts with bright yellow upper breast and tail, much darker side
of neck and head, two prominent wing-bars (JCL).
Troupial Icterus icterus nesting, Introduced
1973 (6 birds) and 1975 (12 birds). Now found throughout island especially
northern, more wooded sections.
Yellow Oriole 202 species for Bonaire
Icterus nigrogularis nesting- conspicuous pendant nest seen hanging
from outermost limbs of trees throughout Northern section of island. Slightly
less common than preceding (JCL).