Date: 08/18/2000

Number: 1

This morning I saw 142 buff-breasted sandpipers. It is unusual to see such high numbers of these in Sedgwick Co. They were apparently feeding on Fall Army worms. The local extension agent says the worms are unusually early. This is not the first unusual "early" occurance. Three weeks ago our Golden Rain began setting seeds. This is a full 3 weeks earlier than we have ever seen it before. (42 years) Swainson thrushes have been sighted in KS unusually early.
There is also an apparent large number of hummingbirds now migrating through. Ruby-throated is normally all we see. There have been several reports from western KS of the Calliope as well as some Rufous. There is just one previously recorded record of the Calliope in Kansas. There is some thought that the dry conditions to the west are driving the birds east. If you would like specific locations of these, I can send them.

Wichita, KS

Latitude: 37.7 Longitude: -97.3

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