HERMIT THRUSH, Feb. 13, 2009, the Wilcox Natural Area, northern St. Lucie County.

Surprised to see a Hermit Thrush this far south, Hart Rufe was able to photograph this bird Feb. 13 at the Wilcox Natural Area. He later discovered in Pranty's A Birder's Guide to Florida, p. 320, that they winter in Florida and can be found, though uncommon, anywhere in the state, but according to The National Geographic Guide, are very rare south of Lake Okeechobee. Thus he suspects it was at about the southern limit of their winter range. This is the first he has seen in Florida, although they are fairly common in winter in Pennsylvania.

LEAST FLYCATCHER, Jan. 9, 2008, western St. Lucie County

On January 9, Hart Rufe saw and photographed a Least Flycatcher west of Fort Pierce in St. Lucie County, while birding with friend Frank Haas of Pennsylvania. The bird was also seen Jan. 10 by Hank and Dotty Hull.

The flycatcher was last seen on Carlton Road south of SR. 70. From I-95 take SR 70 about 12 miles west to Carlton Road. Turn south on Carlton and go about 1 mile past the intersection with Germany Canal Road. After passing  Paleo Hammock on the right, watch for a "Pavement Ends" sign. The flycatcher was seen on the right side of the road about 100 feet past the sign. The bird responded to a brief playing of a prerecorded taped call.

Christmas Bird Count 2008

Christmas Bird Count 2007

(Click for map of count areas)