THE BIRDS OF NEBRASKA
AND ADJACENT PLAINS STATES
Paul A. Johnsgard

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Family Certhiidae Brown Creeper -- Certhia americana A common winter visitor in eastern Nebraska and the Pine Ridge, less frequent elsewhere in the state. There are several early nesting records, but the most recent ones were for 1975 and 1977 in Sarpy County (Nebraska Bird Review 43:80; 46:14). Nesting is also possible in the Pine Ridge area, where territorial birds are present regularly. It breeds in the Black Hills and northern Minnesota, and occurs throughout the Plains States as a migrant or winter visitor. Migration: Ninety-two initial fall sightings range from August 5 to December 30, with a median of October 17. Half of the records fall within the period September 17-October 17. Forty-four final spring sightings are from January 8 to May 29, with a median of March 22. Half of the records fall within the period March 3-April 23. In a few areas the species breeds and must be considered a permanent resident. Habitats: While breeding, these birds are associated with fairly mature deciduous or coniferous forests, but in the winter the birds move to wooded streams, wooded parks, suburbs, and the like. Comments: This small and inconspicuous bark-hugging species virtually blends into its background when it is not moving. The nests are hidden behind loose bark, and very difficult to locate, which accounts for the scanty nesting records.
Family Troglodytidae Rock Wren -- Salpinctes obsoletus A common spring and fall migrant in western Nebraska, becoming rare eastwardly, and a common summer resident in western areas, generally exclusive of the Sandhills, with local breeding as far east as Cherry, Custer, and Lincoln counties. It breeds from the western Parts of North Dakota southward through western Kansas and western Oklahoma. Migration: Eighty-three initial spring sightings range from April 2 to June 9, with a median of May 2. Half of the records fall within the period April 22-May 13. Thirty-three final fall sightings are from August 18 to October 29, with a median of October 27. Half of the records fall within the period September 17-October 6. Habitats: In Nebraska this species occurs on eroded slopes and badlands, rocky outcrops, cliff walls, talus slopes and similar generally arid environments. Comments: Rock wrens make their presence known by their loud trilling songs, which echo up and down the steep canyons they usually inhabit. The nests are well hidden in rock crevices, but their entrance is often lined with tiny pebbles. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population decline during that period. Canyon Wren -- Catherpes mexicanus Accidental . Individuals have been seen on two occasions in Dawes County in recent years (Nebraska Bird Review 42:16, 78). The species is an uncommon permanent resident in the Black Hills, and vagrants in Nebraska are to be expected. It is also a resident in western Oklahoma, but not reported from Kansas. Carolina Wren -- Thryothorus ludovicianus An uncommon resident in eastern Nebraska, extending locally or periodically to Dakota, Lancaster, Cuming and Nuckolls counties. While there may be some seasonal movements, the species is present in southern Nebraska in all seasons. It is also resident in eastern Kansas, Oklahoma, and northern Texas. Migration: Seventy-two initial spring sightings range from January 1 to June 4, with a median of March 1. Nearly half occur in the month of January. Seven final fall sightings range from August 29 to December 31, with a mean of October 21. The data suggest that the species is primarily a permanent resident within its limited Nebraska breeding range, and is a vagrant elsewhere. Habitats: During the breeding season and probably also the rest of the year this species occupies riverbottom forests, forest edges, cutover forests, and cultivated areas with brush heaps, and suburban parks and gardens. It is more closely associated with bottomland forests in Nebraska than is the Bewick's wren or house wren. The three species all overlap in their ecological distributions Comments: The attractive Carolina wren reaches its distributional limit in southeastern Nebraska, where it periodically seems to extend northward for a few years. Its usual song consists of repeated "teakettle" phrases, The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 5-20 individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population increase during that period. Bewick's Wren -- Thryomanes bewickii An uncommon or rare spring and fall migrant and summer resident in southern Nebraska. Breeding may be regular west to Gage County, and exceptionally as far west as Buffalo County, but an early report of breeding in Lincoln County seems very questionable. Elsewhere it breeds in eastern Kansas, southeastern Colorado and south to New Mexico and Texas. It is accidental in South Dakota. Migration: Forty-four initial spring sightings range from March 26 to May 28, with a median of April 24. Half of the records fall within the period April 9-May 8. Nine final fall sightings range from August 11 to October 3, with a mean of September 20. Habitats: Habitats used during the breeding season include open woodlands, brushy habitats, farmsteads, and towns. In Colorado they are mostly associated with dry canyons and scrubby forests, but farther east they overlap with the house wren in their habitats. Comments: Just as the Carolina wren reaches its range limits in eastern Nebraska, the Bewick's wren has its terminus in southern Nebraska. Its possible status in southwestern Nebraska is dubious, but it was reported there on Breeding Bird Breeding Bird surveys, although no breeding records exist for this area or for adjacent northwestn Kansas or northeastn Colorado. There have been few Nebraska records of this species in recent years, and apparently its range has retracted. It has also become quite rare in the eastern states, perhaps because of undesirable interactions with house wrens. The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 5-20 individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. House Wren -- Troglodytes aedon A common spring and fall migrant and summer resident throughout Nebraska, becoming abundant in the Platte and Missouri Valley forests. It breeds widely in the Plains States, from North Dakota and Minnesota south to northern Oklahoma and northeastern New Mexico, and occurs farther south as a migrant. Migration: The range of 136 initial spring sightings is from March 10 to May 24, with a median of April 24. Half of the records fall within the period April 19-May 2. The range of 131 final fall sightings is from July 24 to October 22, with a median of September 26. Half of the records fall within the period September 10-October 7. Habitats: Originally associated with deciduous forests and open woods, this species now is also city-adapted, and frequently nests in birdhouses. However, it is also abundant in river-bottom forests, cottonwood groves, and wooded hillsides or canyons. Comments: One of the worst mistakes bird-lovers can do is to put up nest boxes for house wrens in their back yard. The presence of house wrens is likely to cause losses of all other cavity-nesting birds such as chickadees, tree swallows and bluebirds owing to the predatory nature of house wren males on the eggs and chicks of other hole-nesting birds (Belles-Isles & Picman., 1986). The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 5-50 individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population increase during that period. Winter Wren -- Troglodytes troglodytes A spring and fall migrant and winter resident, ranging from uncommon in eastern Nebraska to rare in western areas. It breeds in northern Minnesota and occurs throughout the Plains States as a migrant or winter visitor. Migration: The range of 38 initial fall sightings is from August 30 to December 26, with a median of October 16. Half of the records fall within January 21 to May 29, with a median of April 13. Half of the records fall within the period April 5-23. Habitats: While in Nebraska this inconspicuous species is usually found among dense ravine thickets along streams, but sometimes also occurs in suburban gardens, parks and other habitats. Comments This tiny but very beautiful wren is too rarely seen in Nebraska, and its wonderfully loud and lilting song is probably never uttered here. In spite of its tiny size this wren has found its way to Asia and Europe, and has a larger breeding range than other single wren species. Sedge Wren -- Cistothorus platensis An uncommon spring and fall migrant in eastern Nebraska, and a rare summer resident in the eastern third of the state, mostly east of a line from Knox to Gage counties. Elsewhere in the Plains States it breeds from North Dakota and Minnesota southward to eastern Kansas, and migrates through most of the region. Migration: Twenty-five initial spring sightings range from April 16 to June 3, with a median of May 8. Half of the records fall within the period May 1-12. Seventeen final fall sightings are from July 29 to October 22, with a median of September 28. Half of the records fall within the period September 11-October 9. Many birds seem to arrive in mid-summer and begin nesting at that time. Habitats: In Nebraska and the northern plains these birds breed in wet meadows, typically those dominated by sedges and tall grasses, and less often breed in the emergent vegetation of marshes as well as retired croplands and hayfields. Comments, Sedge wrens are common breeders in southeastern Nebraska, where they arrive and begin to sing in early May. Then, in July or August a new song cycle begins, leading some to speculate that these are late arriving birds, perhaps from farther north, where they may have been unsuccessful breeders. The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 5-20 individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population increase during that period. Marsh Wren -- Cistothorus palustris A common spring and fall migrant statewide and locally common summer resident north of the Platte River, with local or infrequent breeding south of the Platte (Nebraska Bird Review 39:47). It breeds from North Dakota and Minnesota south to Nebraska, with local breeding in Colorado and occurs elsewhere as a migrant in the Plains States. Both eastern and western song types occur in the state, the dividing line passes southeast through O'Neill, approximately along the Elkhorn Valley (Nebraska Bird Review 64:99). Migration: Seventy-eight initial spring sightings range from March 13 to June 9, with a median of May 5. Half of the records fall within the period April 26-May 15. Thirty-two final fall sightings are from August 9 to November 22, with a median of October 2. Half of the records fall within the period September 8-October 10. Habitats: During the breeding season these birds are primarily found in freshwater marshes having extensive tall emergent vegetation, such as bulrushes and cattails. They also nest along the banks of slowly flowing brackish tidal marshes. Comments: The marsh wrens of Nebraska pose a problem in evolution, with two distinct song types occurring in the state, as noted above. Perhaps the two types represent "sibling species" that seem to differ only in their vocalizations, but act biologically as distinct species. The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 5-50 individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a probable population increase during that period.
Family Cinclidae American Dipper -- Cinclus mexicanus An extremely rare vagrant . Individuals have been reported once each from Sioux, Dawes, Cherry, Holt, Chase and Adams counties. There have been at least four records since 1960, the most recent one from Cherry County (Nebraska Bird Review 45:52). It is a permanent resident in the Black Hills, but not reported from elsewhere in the Plains States. Migration: Probably an irregular vagrant. Records exist for May, June, October and December. Habitats: Throughout the year this species is normally associated with rapidly flowing mountain streams in wooded areas, but in winter the birds sometimes move to open water at lower elevations. Comments: American dippers are sometimes called "water ouzels," and they are the only American songbirds that regularly dive into the water and search for food at the bottom of fast-moving steams. It seems possible that some of the branch streams of the Niobrara River might support breeding pairs of these fascinating birds.
Family Regulidae Golden-crowned Kinglet -- Regulus satrapa A common to uncommon spring and fall migrant, and an uncommon winter resident statewide, perhaps less common in western than eastern areas. Breeding occurs in the Black Hills and northern Minnesota but the species is widespread through the Plains States as a migrant. Migration: Seventy-five initial fall sightings range from August 13 to December 30, with a median of October 19. Half of the records fall within the period October 10-29. Fifty-nine final fall sightings are from November 6 to December 31, with a median of December 26, suggesting that the species should be normally considered a winter resident. Fifty-three final spring records are from January 9 to May 29, with a median of April 10. Half of the records fall within the period April 3-26. Habitats: While in Nebraska this species occupies a wide variety of woodlands, forests and scrubby habitats, including both coniferous and hardwoods but especially the former. Comments: Kinglets are named for their brilliant golden or ruby-colored crown markings, although only in this species are these markings always exposed. The birds are tiny, and their voices are so high-pitched that older birders are likely to miss hearing them altogether. Ruby-crowned Kinglet -- Regulus calendula A common to uncommon spring and fall migrant statewide, and a rare and local winter resident. Breeding in the Plains States is restricted to the Black Hills and probably northern Minnesota, but the species is found throughout the region on migration. Migration: Seventy-four initial spring sightings range from January 12 to May 28, with a median of April 13. Half of the records fall within the period April 1-22. Forty-nine final spring sightings are from April 7 to May 22, with a median of May 10. Seventy-five initial fall sightings are from August 7 to December 10, with a median of September 23. Half of the records fall within the period September 10-October 7. Sixty-nine final fall records are from August 16 to December 31, with a median of October 28. Less than a fourth of the final fall records are for December, suggesting that the species only rather rarely overwinters in Nebraska. Habitats: While in Nebraska this species occurs in a wide variety of forested and shrubby habitats, including gardens and parks. It occurs in both deciduous and coniferous vegetation, showing no apparent preference for the latter. Comments: This seems to be the more common of the two kinglets, and it often pays little attention to humans as it clambers about on twigs and branches seeking out insect prey.
Family Muscicapidae Blue-gray Gnatcatcher -- Polioptila caerulea A common spring and fall migrant and summer resident in eastern Nebraska, with breeding limited to the Missouri River's forested valley and smaller wooded tributary areas in the southeast, west to about Lancaster County. Elsewhere it breeds from Kansas to Texas. Migration: Eighty-five initial spring sightings range from March 30 to June 6, with a median of May 2. Half of the records fall within the period April 23 to May l0. Seven fall sightings are from July 26 to September 22, with a mean of September l. Habitats: Breeding occurs in deciduous bottomland forests of Nebraska. Elsewhere other habitats are also used for breeding. Comments: This tiny sprite of a bird is usually seen high in the tree canopy, industriously searching for tiny insects. The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 5-50 individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. Eastern Bluebird -- Sialia sialis A spring and fall migrant statewide, most common in the east, but uncommon even there, and rare in the extreme west. An uncommon to occasional summer resident in eastern areas, locally breeding as far west as Dawes County in the White River drainage, Brown or Cherry County in the Niobrara Valley and the Colorado border in the South Platte and Republican valleys. There is also local breeding in the eastern Sandhills where wooded habitats exist. Local overwintering sometimes occurs. Breeding occurs widely in the eastern portions of the Plains States, locally west to Colorado and Wyoming, and migrants occur throughout the area. Migration: The range of 123 initial spring sightings is from January 1 to June 8, with a median of March 23. Half of the records fall within the period March 1-April 25, and over ten percent of the records are for January. Seventy-four final fall sightings are from August 14 to December 31, with a median of November 5. Half of the records are within the period October 8-27, and nearly a third are for December. The data suggest that this species occasionally overwinters in Nebraska. Habitats: During summer this species frequents open hardwood forests, especially those adjacent to grasslands. Forest edges, shelterbelts, city parks, farmsteads, and similar habitats are also used by breeding birds and migrants. Comments: After the disastrous decline of bluebirds and other songbirds in the 1960s, it has taken several decades for bluebirds to regain their original numbers as breeding birds. Bluebird nest-box programs have contributed greatly to this resurgence, although boxes used by bluebirds are often attacked by house wrens, which may destroy bluebird eggs, and may kill their nestlings (Radunzel et al, 1997), The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 5-50 individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population increase during that period. Western Bluebird -- Sialia mexicana An extremely rare vagrant . Individuals have been observed during fall and spring in Dawes, Scotts Bluff, Webster and Knox counties at least on five occasions. Considered hypothetical in Kansas and reported twice in Oklahoma. The nearest breeding occurs in Colorado. Migration: Five records of this rare migrant range from April 11 to October 16. There are two records for August and October, and one for April. Habitats: Migrants are associated with open plains and foothills, or similar habitats to those used by mountain bluebirds. Comments: This is by far the rarest bluebird species in Nebraska, although it should be searched-for in the counties bordering Colorado. Mountain Bluebird -- Sialia currucoides A common spring and fall migrant in western Nebraska, sometimes observed east to Douglas and Lancaster counties, and a common summer resident in the Panhandle, particularly the Pine Ridge and Wildcat Hills area. Overwintering in the state sometimes occurs. Breeding also occurs in western portions of the Dakotas, and migrants are fairly widespread in the western half of the region. Migration: Eighty-four initial spring sightings are from January 1 to May 25, with a median of March 11. Half of the records fall within the period February 28 to March 2. Thirty-five final fall sightings are from July 21 to December 31, with a median of October 16. Half of the records fall within the period October 8-27. Habitats: During the breeding season this species occupies open woodlands, especially open pine forest stands, burned or cutover areas, and aspen clumps. While on migration it often occurs in flocks in open country, perching on roadside fences or telephone wires. Comments: Although perhaps not quite so attractive as the eastern bluebird, a flock of mountain bluebirds making their way over the plains is a sight that will be long-remembered. The birds seem to be more gregarious than eastern bluebirds, which generally migrate in very small groups or even singly. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population increase during that period. Townsend's Solitaire -- Myadestes townsendi An uncommon to locally common spring and fall migrant in western Nebraska, and a locally common winter resident in juniper-rich habitats of western and central Nebraska. There is an early report of breeding in Sioux County, as well as a 1986 record, but it is questionable whether the species still nests in the Pine Ridge or elsewhere in the state. Presumably the source of Nebraska's wintering population is the Black Hills of South Dakota. Vagrants may be seen east to the Missouri River in the winter. Breeding is limited to the Black Hills region, but migrants are widespread in the western parts of the region. Migration: Fifty initial fall sightings are from August 23 to December 5, with a median of September 26. Half of the records fall within the period September 17-October 1. Forty-five final spring sightings are from January 10 to May 25, with a median of March 20. Half of the records fall within the period February 9 to April 7. The species is sometimes seen during summer in northwestern Nebraska and perhaps rarely breeds there, but essentially must be considered a winter visitor in Nebraska. Habitats: Breeding habitats of this species are rather dense coniferous forests in mountainous areas. During migration the birds are often found in wooded slopes rich in juniper berries. Comments: On first seeing a Townsend's solitaire a birder may be confused, since it bears little similarity to thrushes, bluebirds or robins, Its slim body and rufous wing markings may remind one of a thrasher or some other related bird, and the oddly spotted juveniles are even more puzzling. However, its song is a lovely thrush-like warble, and its eggs are often pale bluish, with darker spotting. Veery -- Catharus fuscescens A spring and fall migrant statewide, generally occasional to rare throughout, but probably more common in eastern woodlands. It breeds in North Dakota and Minnesota, and occurs elsewhere through the Plains States region as a migrant. Migration: The range of 108 initial spring sightings is from March 10 to June 4, with a median of May 15. Half of the records fall within the period May 10-21. Eighteen final spring sightings are from May 9 to May 29, with a median of May 18. Seven fall sightings range from August 28 to September 23, with a mean of September 13. Habitats: Migrating birds are found in dense and damp bottomland deciduous forests close to flowing water. Comments: This elusive thrush is more often heard than seen; its song reminds one of a coin rolling down a large funnel. It is generally rusty-colored above, but not as bright on the tail as a hermit thrush, or as spotted on the breast as a wood thrush. The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 5-50 individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population decline during that period. Gray-cheeked Thrush -- Catharus minimus A spring and fall migrant statewide, ranging from common in the east to uncommon or rare in the western areas. It occurs as a migrant throughout the entire Plains States region. Migration: The range of 100 initial spring sightings is from March 20 to June 6, with a median of May 9. Half of the records fall within the period May 4-13. Forty-one final spring sightings are from May 6 to June 5, with a median of May 17. Five initial fall sightings are from September 2 to October 22, with a mean of October 1. Habitats: While on migration through Nebraska, this species occupies the same forested habitats as does the Swainson's thrush, namely heavy shrubbery and shady deciduous woodlands, often near creeks or rivers. Comments: This thrush arrives in Nebraska at the same time as the Swainson's thrush during spring, and occupies the same woodland habitats, but is less common. Both are secretive species that only infrequently sing while migrating. Swainson's Thrush -- Catharus ustulatus A common spring and fall migrant statewide. A very rare summer resident in the Pine Ridge, with a single known breeding record for Dawes County (Nebraska Bird Review 42:17). It breeds in the Black Hills and in Minnesota, and occurs elsewhere through the Plains States as a regular migrant. Migration: The range of 141 initial spring sightings is from April 9 to May 30, with a median of May 6. Half of the records fall within the period May 1-11. Seventy-four final spring sightings are from April 20 to June 9, with a median of May 27. Fifty-one initial fall sightings are from July 29 to October 14, with a median of September 8. Half of the records fall within the period September 3-16. Fifty-one final fall sightings are from September 11 to December 1, with a median of September 28. Habitats: While on migration this species occupies riverbottom forests, shelterbelts, and parks or shade trees in towns. In the Black Hills and probably also in the Pine Ridge area it is limited to cool and dense coniferous forests having fairly open understory allowing for easy ground foraging. Comments: Although somewhat similar in plumage pattern to the gray-cheeked thrush, this species is more olive-toned (an older and more appropriate name was "olive-backed thrush"), and has conspicuous buffy rings around its eye, which the gray-cheeked thrush lacks. Hermit Thrush -- Catharus guttatus An uncommon spring and fall migrant in eastern Nebraska, becoming rarer to the west, and apparently quite rare in extreme western Nebraska. It has bred in the Black Hills, breeds in Minnesota, and occurs as a migrant throughout the Plains States. Migration: Excepting one January record, the range of 94 initial spring sightings is from March 9 to June 3, with a median of April 20. Half of the records fall within the period April 10-May 2. Twenty-six final spring sightings are from April 10 to May 26, with a median of April 26. Fourteen initial fall sightings are from September 4 to December 31, with a median of October 6. Twelve final fall sightings are from September 11 to December 14 with a median of October 16. Habitats: Migrants are found in dense to semi-open areas of woodland, shrubbery, and vine-draped tangles, but occasionally moving into more open areas. Fairly heavy deciduous woodlands are the favored habitat in eastern Nebraska. Comments: It is unfortunate that Nebraskans never have a chance to hear the song of the hermit thrush while it is in Nebraska; the song begins with a single fluty note that is followed by a cascade of ascending and descending phrases. The rufous tail and fairly heavily spotted breast of this forest thrush provide the best fieldmarks. Wood Thrush -- Hylocichla mustelina A common to uncommon spring and fall migrant in eastern Nebraska, and a local summer resident in wooded eastern areas, extending west locally to Cherry, Lincoln and Thomas counties. It breeds widely in the eastern parts of the region, from Minnesota south to eastern Kansas and eastern Oklahoma. Migration: The range of 120 initial spring sightings is from April 1 to June 10, with a median of May 10. Half of the records fall within the period May 5-19. Thirty-one final fall sightings are from July 23 to October 6, with a median of September 10. Half of the records fall within the period September 5-23. Habitats: Migrants and breeding birds are associated with mature, shady forests, especially deciduous woods, and also with wooded parks and gardens. The birds prefer breeding habitats with a dense understory, running water nearby, and tall trees for singing perches. Comments: Wood thrushes somewhat resemble improperly plumaged robins; they are of about the same size, and they have a distinctly robin-like profile and behavior, and lay eggs that are robin-egg blue, like those of veerys and hermit thrushes. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population decline during that period. American Robin -- Turdus migratorius An abundant spring and fall migrant and common summer resident statewide. Overwintering is frequent in some years and localities. Breeding occurs nearly throughout the Plains States, except for the extreme southwestern areas, where it is only a migrant. Migration: Forty-five initial spring sightings are from January 1 to May 26, with a median of February 20. Half of the records fall within the period February 2-March 4. Fifty-four final fall sightings are from September 1 to December 31, with a median of November 19. Half of the records fall within the period October 20-December 14. Over a third of the records are for December, indicating that the species commonly overwinters in Nebraska. Habitats: Although this species was originally associated with open woodlands, it is probably most common in cities, suburbs, parks and gardens, and farmlands. Comments: Everybody recognizes this familiar bird; it is tamer than any of the other thrushes, and is completely at home close to humans. Its cheery song is one of the hallmarks of spring in Nebraska, and it is one of the last birds to leave in the autumn. The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 20 to more than 50 individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population increase during that period. Varied Thrush -- Ixoreus neevius An extremely rare vagrant . Individuals have been observed in at least five counties, mostly during fall and spring months, but without any obvious geographical pattern. It has also been reported in the Dakotas, Kansas, Colorado and Oklahoma. Migration: Four fall records for this rare vagrant are from October 1 to December 4, and three spring records are for February 18 to April 10. Habitats: Normally associated with coniferous montane forests, but migrants move into more open woodlands on migration and during winter, sometimes wandering widely. Comments: This is one of the most colorful of our typical thrushes; its striking pattern and musical song always comes as a surprise to persons not familiar with the species. (Northern Wheatear) -- Oenanthe oenanthe Hypothetical . In addition to an early sight record for Dawes County by John T. Zimmer, the species was reported in Gage County in January of 1970 (Nebraska Bird Review 39:18). It is considered hypothetical in South Dakota, but there are no specimen records from the Plains States.
Family Mimidae Gray Catbird -- Dumetella carolinensis A common spring and fall migrant and summer resident over most of Nebraska, but becoming rarer northwestwardly, and now apparently declining in the Pine Ridge area, where habitat is decreasing. It breeds nearly throughout the Plains States, except in the driest and nearly treeless southwestern areas. Migration: The range of 134 initial spring sightings is from March 20 to June 5, with a median of May 11. Half of the records fall within the period May 5-17. The range of 128 final fall sightings is from July 22 to December 11, with a median of September 24. Half of the records fall within the period September 16-October 2. Habitats: Breeding habitats include thickets, woodland edges, shrubby marsh borders, orchards, parks and similar brushy habitats. Comments: The dull gray plumage and cat-like "meow" call makes this an easy species to identify; it is a poorer mimic of other species' songs than the mockingbird or brown thrasher. The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 5-20 individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. Breeding Bird surveys between 1984 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population increase during that period. Northern Mockingbird -- Mimus polyglottos An uncommon spring and fall migrant and summer resident in southern and eastern parts of Nebraska, becoming rarer to the west and north, but rarely breeding as far northwest as Sioux County. It breeds widely from Kansas and eastern Colorado southward to Texas, and rarely north to South Dakota. Migration: The range of 132 initial spring sightings is from January 1 to June 10, with a median of May 2. Half of the records fall within the period April 21-May 13, and about six percent of the records are for January. Sixty-one final fall sightings are from July 22 to December 31, with a median of September 11. Half of the records fall within the period August 15-October 13, and nearly ten percent of the records are for December. The data suggests that the species overwinters occasionally. Habitats: A variety of habitats, ranging from open woodlands, forest edges, and farmlands, to parks and cities are utilized, but treeless plains and heavy forests are avoided. Comments: This famous mimic is one of Nebraska's less common breeding songbirds, but one that is notable for its loud songs, whose phrases are usually repeated several times, and the flashing white wing and tail markings that are apparent during flight. The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 20-50 or more individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population decline during that period. Sage Thrasher -- Oreoscoptes montanus An uncommon spring and fall migrant, especially the latter, in the Wildcat Hills of western Nebraska, and a locally rare summer resident in Sioux County (Rosche, 1982). Vagrants have also been observed in Lincoln, Logan, and Garden counties. It breeds in western South Dakota, and is a migrant in eastern Colorado, eastern New Mexico, and adjacent areas. Migration: Three initial spring sightings are from March 23 to April 21, with a mean of April 17. Seven final fall sightings are from August 24 to October 12, with a mean of September 16. Habitats: During the breeding season this species is closely associated with sage-dominated grasslands and similar shrubby arid lands. On migration it has a broader distribution, occurring in open prairies and also in ponderosa pine woodlands. Comments: Like the sage sparrow, this bird is rarely found far from sagebrush, and so is of very restricted range in Nebraska. It is smaller and darker-colored than the brown thrasher, and its song is a more continuous outpouring of notes. Brown Thrasher -- Toxostoma rufum A common spring and fall migrant and summer resident virtually statewide, but becoming rarer in extreme western Nebraska south of the North Platte River. Breeding occurs nearly throughout the Plains States, excepting the nearly treeless southwestern areas. Migration: The range of 134 initial spring sightings is from January 1 to June 2, with a median of April 26. Half of the records fall within the period April 19-May 4. The range of 164 final fall records is from July 22 to December 31, with a median of September 28. Half of the records fall within the period September 13-October 11. Over ten percent of the records are for December, suggesting that the species overwinters occasionally. Habitats: During summer this species frequents open brushy woods, scattered patches of brush and small trees in open environments, shelterbelts, woodlands and shrubby residential areas. Comments: This fox-colored, long-tailed member of the mimic thrush Family resembles an elongated thrush in shape, but has a slightly curved bill. Its song consists of a series of short phrases that are each repeated once, followed by a brief pause, and the start of a new phrase. The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 20-50 individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population decline during that period. Curve-billed Thrasher -- Toxostoma curvirostre Accidental . There is a specimen from Lincoln County obtained in 1936 from a group of several birds, and another dead bird was found in Sioux County in 1962. Another individual that tentatively was identified as this species was obtained at Halsey, Blaine County, in 1970. One was observed in Red Willow County in early 1969, and in June of 1965 in southwestern Nebraska (Nebraska Bird Review 38:93; 39:73). A 1996 sighting occurred in Scotts Bluff County on July 2 (Brogie, 1997). The species is a permanent resident in northwestern Oklahoma, and a rare breeder in southwestern Kansas.
Family Sturnidae European Starling -- Sturnus vulgaris An introduced and common to abundant permanent resident throughout Nebraska, with numbers supplemented during fall and winter by migrants. The species now breeds throughout the entire Plains States region. Habitats: Found virtually everywhere throughout the year, but especially associated with human habitations such as cities, suburbs and farms, and with mature woodlands having woodpecker holes or other tree cavities for nest sites. Comments: Starlings arrived in eastern Nebraska in 1939, and since then have become abundant nesters, displacing bluebirds and other cavity-nesting birds that once were common here. They have adapted well to city life, and their flocks in late fall are among the least welcome of our avian visitors. The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 5-50 or more individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population decline during that period.
Family Motacillidae American Pipit -- Anthus rubescens A common spring and fall migrant statewide, and a rare winter resident. Apparently more abundant and much more conspicuous than the Sprague's pipit. It occurs widely throughout the Plains States while on migration. Migration: The range of 125 initial spring sightings is from January 1 to May 21, with a median of April 23. Half of the records fall within the period April 13-May 5. Eleven final spring sightings are from April 17 to May 23, with a median of April 28. Eighteen initial fall sightings are from August 24 to October 29, with a median of October 2. Sixteen final fall sightings are from September 14 to December 31, with a median of October 26. Probably overwintering is quite rare, judging from the limited number of late fall records. Habitats: Migrating birds are found in open plains, fields, and bare shorelines, generally favoring moist to wet environments over dry ones. Comments: Previously called the "water pipit," this species is rarely found far from water, whereas the Sprague's pipit is more adapted to upland habitats. Pipits are long-tailed and long-legged birds that nervously pump their tails up and down as they move about; some related species are thus called "wagtails." Sprague's Pipit -- Anthus spragueii A seemingly rare spring and fall migrant, probably occurring statewide, but with few records for the extreme western and eastern portions, and most observations for central Nebraska (especially Webster and Adams counties). Breeding occurs in North Dakota and northern South Dakota, but migrants occur throughout the Plains States. Migration: The range of 41 initial spring sightings is from March 17 to May 21, with a median of April 20. Half of the records fall within the period April 8-27. Five final spring sightings are from April 5 to May 23, with a mean of April 21. Seventeen initial fall sightings are from September 14 to October 19, with a median of September 26. Eleven final fall sightings are from October 2 to November 8, with a median of October 23. Habitats: Associated with dense, grassy vegetation of plains and prairies, and unlike the American pipit this species is not often found in bare areas close to water. It also differs from that species in not usually moving in flocks, and is thus more often overlooked. Comments: This is one of Nebraska's least-seen regular migrants. Like other pipits its territorial song is uttered in flight, and in this species the song is a strange hissing sound. Nationally the species has declined 75 percent since 1966, based on annual Breeding Bird Breeding Bird survey data. The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 5-20 individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population decline during that period.
Family Bombycillidae Bohemian Waxwing -- Bombycilla garrulus A rare winter visitor in Nebraska, irregular in geographic and yearly occurrence. It occurs widely throughout the northern parts of the Plains States, but is very rarely encountered south of Nebraska. Migration: The range of 11 initial fall sightings is from September 25 to December 27, with a median of November 20. Nineteen final spring sightings range from January 2 to May 22, with a median of February 28. Habitats: Migrants are associated with fruit-bearing trees in woodlands, shelterbelts, and urban parks or gardens, often in association with cedar waxwings. Comments: Only during unusually cold winters do Bohemian waxwings usually visit Nebraska. They are somewhat larger birds, and have rufous under tail-coverts and yellow wing-edgings, so they can be easily recognized. Cedar Waxwing -- Bombycilla cedrorum A common spring and fall migrant statewide, and an uncommon winter resident. It is erratic in timing of arrival and departure, and probably moves primarily in relation to available food supplies. It breeds from North Dakota and Minnesota south locally to northern Missouri, but occurs throughout the Plains States as migrant. Migration: The range of 54 initial spring sightings is from January 2 to May 20, with a median of February 24. Half of the records fall within the period February 1-April 23. Forty-five initial fall sightings are form July 20 to December 28, with a median of October 4. Fifty-eight final fall sightings are in December, suggesting that the species rather frequently overwinters in the state. Habitats: Outside the breeding season this species occurs in flocks that concentrate in fruit-bearing trees, such as hackberries, mountain ash, and tall shrubs such as pyracantha, junipers, and sumac. Breeding usually occurs in semi-open deciduous woodlands, including floodplain forests, upland woodlands, and sometimes parks, farmsteads or residential areas. Comments: Few birds are more aesthetically appealing than waxwings; their soft colors remind one of an oriental watercolor, and their gregarious nature is marked by a notable absence of aggressive interactions. The functions of the wax-like tips on their inner wing feathers is presumably decorative, as they are present only in adults. The inked area on the range map represents a mean density of 5-20 individuals per Breeding Bird survey route annually. Breeding Bird surveys between 1966 and 1993 indicate that the species has undergone a significant population increase during that period.
Family Ptilogonatidae Phainopepla -- Phainopepla nitens Accidental . Photographed at Alliance, Box Butte County, between January l and February l3, l983 (Nebraska Bird Review: 5l :l8).

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THE BIRDS OF NEBRASKAAND ADJACENT PLAINS STATESPaul A. Johnsgard

THE BIRDS OF NEBRASKA
AND ADJACENT PLAINS STATES
Paul A. Johnsgard