ANNOTATED CHECKLIST OF BIRDS OF BONAIRE

by Jerry Ligon, January, 2006

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, or underlined ARE THOSE GATHERED SINCE SUMMER OF 2001.

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). Two individuals on large lake east of Rincon that filled with copious rains during Nov, Dec, 04, (JCL, T. Hunefeld). Nested on large lake near entrance to park; at least 3 pairs with young, March, 2005.

·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. First of 2005, 2 seen on pond near park entrance, and in an area of the shoreline difficult to get access in order to see, therefore, this species was most likely here for no telling how long. (JCL, S. Kacos) Nesting in 2006 was on almost any fresh water empoundment: Pond near Dos Pos had nesting pair with 4 young with striped heads and still on the pond even though it has just about dried up, 23 May, 2006; large pond near park entrance had 4 or 5 pair nesting with as many as 15 young.

SHEARWATERS, Procellariidae

·Great Shearwater Puffinus gravis rare visitor

·Audubon's Shearwater Puffinus lherminieri nesting? Our records concerning the open water pelagic birds are indeed scant and the knowledge that we do have came from work done aboard ships that steamed between the Antilles Islands in the 1950's and listed by Voous. Also, he reports that this species is not easy to see from shore, so the sighting by Dara Walters, on 23 May, 2003, from shore at Sorobon of 4 individuals plying along the coast, was indeed fortunate.

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 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, Papimento 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.

·Red-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). A visiting ornithologist reported a masked boody sighting on 8 Nov., 2002, along the east coast near the Onima Indian inscriptions, (O. Ottema). Adult was seen off Invisibles dive site, 9 Oct., 04. Noted was the black wingtips that covered the trailing edge of the wing to the body, (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 Put Mangel, Washinton/Slagbaai, March, 2002, (D & E Compton). Several seen, mangroves at Cai during last week of February, 2003 (jcl, S. Fried and group).

HERONS AND EGRETS, Ardeidne

·Whistling Heron Syrigma sibilatrix Found on llanos of Venezuela, but first record for Bonaire discovered on salina at Boca Slagbaai, 8 Jan., 2003. In my opinion the most beautiful, if not gaudy of all the waders with bright blue around eyes and on top of head, soft yellow on body, whitish patch on wings and white tail makes this an unforgettable sighting, (JCL, B Griesemer, J. Cannon).

·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 non-breeding irregular visitor. One individual regularly seen on lawn along entrance road into Plaza Resort during winter of ’01-’02, 3 Apr., 2002 (JCL). One seen at Playa Frans, Nov 13, 2004 feeding along shore in grass. Two seen along road near stadium in tall grass, March 24, 2004, (jcl).

·Little 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

*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 visitor, rare, from South America. Immatures can easily be confused with White-faced Ibis. One observed 5 Jan., 2005, at the airport marsh, (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

· Fullvous 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).

· 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). One reported, and photo taken, seen by S. Stapert, 25 May,2004. Adult was seen on small temporary pool near Lagoon. Photo examined.

· 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 (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). Several on pond near park entrance, 17 Dec., 04, (JCL, T. Hunefeld)

· 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). Twenty-five seen last of February, 2003 on Gotomeer for first sightings of year (jcl). Regularly seen on freshwater pond known as airport marsh during winter and spring, 2004/05.

· 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). Winter of 2004, which was accompanied with abundant rain, many individuals began to show up and remained throught the winter months, with 6 to 9 individuals, some males with evident cheeck patches were seen on 16 Jan, 2004 at the large pond near the air port, (JCL, C. Powell).

· 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 scarce winter visitor- N. A. Occurance depending on availability of fresh water. Jan., 1977, exceptional flock of 18 observed on Bonaire, (P.A. &F.G. Buckley). One observed after several weeks of heavy rain, on freshwater pond near airport on 10 Nov., 2004 (JCL and T. Sipes). A female with white patch near base of bill and overall brownish coloration indicating female.

· Ring-neck Duck Aythya collaris rare winter visitor - N. A. One adult male observed Wash/Slagbaai, 23 Jan, 1971 (P.A. & F. G. Buckley).

· Masked 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. Another individual was found in a pool in the Subedeco area to the North of Kralendijk, 14 June, 2004, and examination of the photos taken by the homeowners revealed it to be a subadult male showing just the start of its pale blue shield on the front of the head. Individual was unable to fly and was given sanctuary in a cage where it was found dead the next morning from its injuries before it could be released in the mangrooves in Cai area where this secretive species most likely exists (H & E Roozendaal). Adult with immature spotted along the brushy shoreline of the small temporary pond across the road from Dos Pos, 8 March, 2005. Two individuals, one adult seen on far shore of large pond near park entrance, last of March, 2005

· Caribbean Coot Fufica caribibaca nesting: 4 active nests with at least 2 sets of downy chicks seen, Mar., 2000 on flooded roadside pond near park entrance with a total of 15 young. Also nesting with 3 nest seen out in the floating vegetation in shallow water withing 25 meters of the shore with 9 young in total observed and other 3 other nests with incubating adult in attendance. Site is upper pond of Onima complex of water empoundments which can be accessed from highway approximately 4 miles north of Rincon, 14 March, 2001 (JCL). This was the only period of time that this large pond contained water which filled during the rainy period of fall 1999 through July of 2002. By 18 Feb., 2005, at least 40 to 50 young in of various ages seen on large pond near park entrance. First young seen in late December, in their reddish down feathers. Total number of coots on large fresh water pond near park entrance by last of May, 2006, numbering 50-60.

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, 2001. 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). Two along seacoast near junction with Gotomeer, 3 May, 2004, (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). Numerous along coast near Gotomeer, 30 April, 2004, perhaps as many as 20 observed with several Thick-billed Plovers. (JCL, Jeanne ).

· Wilson'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). Another individual showed up on freshwater pool during rainy spell, first week of Nov., 2002 (JCL). Two were observed on morning of 16 Jan, 2004 on the pond near the airport during a wetter winter than has been occuring, (JCL, C. Powell).

· 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). Conspicuous yellow legs on a plover paler than snowy seen on south end of island near Salt Pier, by birder from U.S. during last week Oct., 2002 (D. Henderson)

·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). First arrival on Gotomeer on 6 March,2003, when 5 were observed (jcl, mob). First record for nesting area along mudflats just past Gotomeer, in 2004 was the observation of 4 on 24 Feb, (jcl). First adult that attempted broken-wing act in 2004 was on 3 May along mud flats at Gotomeer, (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). Birder from U.S. reported seeing one on the south end of island during last week Oct., 2002, (D. Henderson) Expedition leader of Endeavor, Nat. Geo ship, reports one on Gotoomeer, 24 April,2005, Art Cooley.

·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. One individual with black specking on breast seen along coast near Gotomeer junction, 3 May, 2004, (JCL).

·Southern Lapwing Vanellus chilensis Rare from S. A. Prof. Voous reports, 1983, one seen at Aruba's sewage ponds, 6 June, 1979. Two individuals were seen on 23 May, 2006 on freshwater pond near park entrance. Good looks for over 1 hour through newly purchased Leica spotting scope. FIRST RECORD FOR BONAIRE. Communication with T. Prins (Curator of birds, Un. of Amsterdam) indicates that 4 records exist for Curacao, all recent, indicating that this species may be on the increase in this part of the Caribbean. A return to check on this new species for Bonaire on 6 June, 2006, revealed that there were 3 individuals, with two showing signs of being a breeding pair. Pair has reappeared at the drying up pond near the park entrance, this morning 18 Oct., 2006 (jcl and 3 birders). Still present, pair, as the water level continues to drop on this fresh-water pond that has sustained most of the water birds for 3 years. It will probably go dry this summer.

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 9^th July, 2001, 1 on 11^th at Pekelmeer and 1 on 13^th and 15^th 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). One spotted on south shore of Bonaire during last week of December, 2003 (T. Hunefeld).

· 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). Three seen along foam-lined pond near Cai, (JCL, S. Kacos) .

·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 5^th July, 2001, 28 on 11^th July, 23 on 15 July. All identified at Pekelmeer and many were photographed at close range for aid in identification, (C. Powell)

·Western Sandpiper Calidris mauri non-br. visitor - N. A. Recent records: 1 on 9^th July, 2001 and 2 on 11^th 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 1^st 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 Resembles stilt-almost identical size, yellowish leg color, but pectoral has densly streaked breast and bill is two-toned and shorter than stilts, whose bill is conspicuously longer and all black with a slight droop at the tip. 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. Appearing on all fresh water puddles since rains of 16 Oct., 2006. At least 20 were seen today,

· 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 observe 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). Ten or twelve individuals seen along shoreline at Gotomeer on 3 May, 2004 and several had reddish crowns and red spot on back of eye, (JCL). Marsh, near airport has had up to 20 at one time, recorded in early January, 2005.

·Buff-breasted Sandpiper Tryngites subruficollis 1 record, Oct. 1970 - N. A.

·Wilson's Snipe Gallinago delicata winter visitor - N. A. Name change and given species status from Common Snipe which is European in distribution.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). Many observed feeding in freshwater pools alongside roads in northern part of city, Hato section, after weeks of heavy rains during first week of Nov.,2002. In one pool 20 individuals were counted (JCL). After heavy rains in Nov, 04 and freshwater in pools along major roads, there is excellent habitat for shorebirds, and a single bird of this species was seen in the marsh near the airport on 5 Jan., 2005, (JCL, H and B Hall).

·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).

·Long-billed Dowitcher Limnodromus Scolopaceus winter visitor - N. A.

Note: This and preceding species are thought by some to be the most difficult of all birds to tell apart because of overlapping characteristics of Short-billed's three 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 , rare, from N.A. 1 record, Aug 1977

· Greater Yellowlegs Tringa melanoleuca non-br. visitor - N. A. Less numerous than Lesser Yellowlegs, 1 Nov., 2000 (JCL, L. Sall) Call is loud irritating, single note call: KLEE-KLEE-KLEE.

· Lesser Yellowlegs Tringa flavipes non-br. visitor - N. A. Call is best for differentiating from Greater when solitary and size is not apparent. Lesser’s alarm call is strident and rising in pitch, klet, klet, KLET, a low, rolling trill.

· 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). Winter of 2004, being a wetter season that preceeding winters has produced 2 sightings in the Cai mangrove region and near Sorobon, (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.

· Red 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)

·Greater Black-backed Gull Larus marinus Rare visitor from N.A., with Vous reporting only 2 from Aruba in early 1970's. During his stay on Bonaire, a very experienced birder from England spotted an individual of this species which I was able to observe with him and others on the morning of 16 Jan, 2004. Its evident massive size as compared to near-by Laughing Gulls and Royal Terns, made this individual very conspicuous and its pale pink legs helped to confirm, (JCL, C. Powell).

TERNS, Sternidae

·Gull-billed Tern Gelochelidon nilotica passage migrant, - N. A., 9 records on Bonaire from 1962 to 1981. Recent record, one bird with all dark head, conspicuous large bill, solid black, resting in salina across from Harbour Village Marina, 23 Sept., 2002, (JCL). An individual was seen on the inland salina across from Pink Beach, (C.Powell), on morning of 14 Jan,2004. Because of its gull-like appearance probably often overlooked, (Voous)

·Caspian 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. Observed by Jeanne , JCL, 30 April, 2004 at Gotomeer and showed variety of bill colors. Most were light yellow, with a few black bills with yellow tip. (JCL). Most Sandwich Terns that were seen on 3 May, 2004 at Gotomeer were almost 100% yellowish billed, (JCL). On 23 May, 2006, of 15 individuals scoped on large pond near park entrance, only one had black bill with yellow tip.

·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). Individuals still showing breeding plumage and red legs seen flying over fisherman. Photos taken of one that landed near boat that I was on, 7 Oct., 04 (JCL). Other species of terns at this time had already acquired their winter plumaged head patterns.

·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. A flock of 10 -15 birds observed picking food off the choppy surface of crashing waves along the southern coastline near the bridge at Tori's Reef on 9 Sept., 2004, the day after hurricane Ivan skirted north of Bonaire by 95 miles. Almost all individuals were in non-breeding plumages, (JCL).

·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). Report to me of a single individual at Sorobon, 15 Nov., 2002 and with excellent description (S. Stapert).

·Brown 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. Voous reports many records from Aruba dating from 21 June, 1977, but for Bonaire, only one previous record of a single bird at Lac Cai, 4 April, 1979 by E. Bartels, and J. Heidweiller. A single bird was sighted on one of my bird tours in the standing shallow water across from the shrimp farm near Sorobon. Many observers and I had good looks for as long as 30 minutes at a distance of 50 feet as the individual appeared to be resting in the shallow inland water. The exact date has been forgotten, but was in early June, 2003 (JCL, Dr. J. Mather, mob). It appears that tropical northern S. A. skimmers nest along broad rivers and moves towards outer estuaries and continental coasts during the season of highest water levels, usually July through Nov., and this might possibly be the reason four our sighting as reports during the time of sighting of heavy rains and flooding were occurring in NW Colombia

HAWKS, Accipitridae

·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. A belated documentation of one sitting on fence post along soccer field on outskirts of Rincon on 18 June, 1998 “a medium-large hawk with dark feathers over the head, back and wings appeared reddish brown, with lighter buff or white on belly and legs” reported to me my e-mail on 17 Jan, 2003 (N. Swearingen). This sighting might be the last confirmed sighting on Bonaire (JCL).

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 , Pair again returned to Peaceful Canyon for first sighting of 2003 on morning of 12Feb. On two occasions one of the pair seen to be carrying whitish mouse in beak, 13Feb., 17Feb. (JCL, mob ). First sighting of 2005, of a single sub-adult along mangrove marsh road into Cai, 30 Jan., 2005 (JCL, S. Kacos.) In 2005, by 18 Feb., only 3 have been recorded in over 30 hours of birding tours through the most likely habitat for this species just to indicate the increasing rareness of caracara on Bonaire.

·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). First merlin of the year was seen, 22 Oct., 2004, as it was being constantly harassed by a male Ruby-Topaz hummingbird. The merlin finally flew from perch with the hummingbird in pursuit, (JCL).

·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

· Scaly-naped Pigeon Patagioenas 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 absent in the West Indies proper, but found generally throughout Central and South America from S. Texas to N. Argentina.

· Rock Pigeon 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).Begging of young heard first on 8 August, 2004 when 5 different groups of 4 or 5 individuals made up the family group

·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). Flock of 30-40 near Gotomeer early morning of 28 Dec., 04, (JCL, T. Hunefeld)

NOTE:Blue plumaged A. b. rothschildi appeared in wild flock on island-wide parrot count on 1Feb., 2003, in the area of Gotomeer. Photos were taken of this individual on 12 Feb., 2003 and excellent study of its interactions with its flock-mates were undertaken for at least one-half hour( T. Hesper, J. & L. Liebherr, JCL). Vocalizations of this individual were identical with the normal plumaged birds and its coloration indicated that this variation most likely is due to pigment exclusion where the yellow pigment is lacking and not mixed with blue structurally caused color to produce green, and this leaves this unique and beautiful blue coloration (J. Gilardi of World Parrot Trust comm.) Origin of this individual is still being undertaken, 12 Feb., 2003.

CUCKOOS, , Cuculidae

·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). One seen, 22 Oct., 2004 on bike tour near Radio Netherlands Radio towers.

·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). Two seen feeding along shoreline of large pond near park entrance, first part of Feb., 2005.

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). Received report that a Dutch biologist, Maarten Flikweert, on island to study Barn Owl, found two nests with young down in Peaceful Canyon. His stay was from Jan., till May, 2003.

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). A female gave broken-wing behavior on the highway at the Dos Pos pond 21 Feb.06 and later flew off. I took video clip of behavior (JCL, mob).

·Chuck-will's Widow Caprimulgus carolinensis 1 record, Nov., 1981, visitor from - N. A.

·Lesser Nighthawk Chordeiles acutipennis rare 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

·Ruby-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 One reported in back yard of the Thorpe’s of Saffron Finch fame, across from Divi Flamingo dive entrance on two consecutive days, 23 Jan, 24 Jan, 2003.

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). Adult building nest near highest point along road through Peaceful Canyon, 3 May, 2004, (JCL).

·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). 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). Individual observed building tiny and very neat nest on top of limb of calabash tree. A week later adult was sitting tight on nest.

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). ). .

·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.

·Streaked 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). First sighting on Bonaire since July, 2001 was a pair observed on fence, south of Web facilities in Hato, northern section of Kralendijk. Easily found the pair later to show to visiting birders, 7 April, 2004, (JCL). Individuals both had conspicuously black heads, and white underneath, and tails were a bit frayed in one individual and not the striking elongated tail streamers. Overall color of both seemed to indicate they were males, as the females and juveniles are browninsh. A pair observed along main road in Hato in front of Web (electric generation station) on 20 March, 2004 but within one week, only a single individual could be seen. Remained on site until 23 April, 2004. Winter and spring of '03 and 2004 was the wettest in 3 years, which appears to influence this species occurance here on Bonaire. At least one bird seen along shoreline in mesquite growing out of water in the pond that is filled brimful that is near the park entrance. 30 Jan., 2005 (JCL, S. Kacos). Art Cooley, expedition leader for cruise ship, Endeavor, Nat. Geo., reports a single individual in Wilhelmina Park, near townpier, 24 April, 2005. In 2006, two individuals have been seen, one, in April, 2006 along the road above Bopec, and another was seen 6 June, 2006 along shore of large fresh-water lake near park entrance.

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. Four reported being seen over the Plaza Hotel on 10 Oct., 2005 (J. Holmes).

· 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. Quite a few Barn Swallows flying and catching abundant salt flies at Gotomeer, 3 May, 2004, (JCL). First of 2005, seen over Bongo’s Beach, 5 March, as 3 or 4 were seen and watched.

· Cliff 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). Visiting ornithologist reported seeing 5 cliff swallows flying with barn swallows along the south road near Cargill Salt Company, 6 Nov., 2002, (O. Ottema). One individual continued to fly over birding group, 17Feb.,2003 on pier of Bonaire Dive and Adventure, near Den Leman restaurant. (JCl, MOB).

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). One reported as being seen at Bronswinkle in National Park on 12 Oct., 2005 (J. Holmes)

·Veery Catharus fuscescens ) uncommon visitor - N. A. 4 records, Oct., 1975, Nov., 1979; Oct., 1997, 1998 (JCL.) One reported in National Park on 12 Oct., 2005 (J. Holmes).

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).

·Black-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.One observed by S Williams while here studying Yellow-shouldered Parrot for PHd work from England. Seen on side road from high point over Gotomeer, 15 May, 2006.

·Northern Parula Warbler Parula Americana migrant and winter - N. A. 6 records, mostly Oct., 1979, 1981, 2 records for Apr.,1964, 1978- Voous. Adult male came in to "squeeking", Dos Pos, 23 March, 2004 for authors first island record, (JCL).

·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). Beautiful male observed after coming in to "squeeking" sound at Dos Pos, 12 March, 2004 and was first migrant warbler of the year, (JCL). Perhaps same individual again responded to squeeking at Dos Pos, 23 March, 2004, in identical site, (JCL). One observed early morning at Dos Pos, winter plumage, (JCL, T. Hunefeld), 28 Dec., 04.

·Blackpoll Warbler Dendroica striata Migrant and sometimes wintering.CAUTION: fall warblers may all appear identical, but this species has blackish streaks on back, white undertail, slight barring along sides and bright wing-bars. Often, in fall, under ideal conditions, upwards of hundred can be seen as in October, 1996, which followed heavy rains on island. First fall warbler in fall 2001 was of this species on 5 October, at Dos Pos where it came in to bathe. For 2006 many were seen again after heavy rains on 18 October when at least 10 were observed on a morning of birding, mostly near Karpata.

·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), which conjures dark-capped warblers (Wilson's Warbler, and Palm Warbler) to even keen observers from North America.

·Chestnut-sided Warbler Dendroica pennsylvanica -migrant and winter - N. A. 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).

Cerulean Warbler Dendroica cerulea 2 records, Oct, 1975,1979-migrant and winter- N.A. Winters along nw S.A. coast, particularly Columbia, migrates mainly through Central America and the Caribbean Islands. Under consideration for listing under the Endangered Species Act. Listed on the Audubon Watchlist , Dec., 2006.

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·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)

·Black-throated Green Warbler Dendroica virens migrant and winter - N. A. (Caution- fall sight records should be carefully described because of possible confusion with similar fall warblers). Few records-May, 1962, 1976; April,1999, Mangel, (JCL)

·Palm Warbler Dendroica palmarum rare migrant from N.A. Only records for Bonaire are 2: one male came in to watering at Dos Pos on morning of 29 March, 2003 and was observed at close range. ( JCL, L. Sweating, C. Hummer). Another sighting of one hopping on the ground, 30 April, 2004, in Hato region of Bonaire. Yellow tones were evident along with streaking on breast and bright yellow under tail coverts, throat at center was white, surrounded by yellow. Superciliary line above eye, bright yellow and crown was reddish. Tail pumping was vigorous (JCL). Voous lists it's occurrence in the Netherlands Antilles as "Known from the winter 1956-57 only when two specimens were collected in Curacao (23 Feb., 9 March, FHA, HJK) and one was sighted in Aruba(4 Nov., Dr. H.C. Miller)," from Birds of the Netherlands Antilles by Prof. Dr. K. H. Voous, published in 1983. Jon Dunn and Kimball Garrett, in their book, "Warblers", published 1997, lists the Palm Warbler as recorded once in Columbia and one was photographed as an exceptional record at Lago Mucubaji, Sierra Nevada National Park, Venezuela, on 29 June, 1995. Second record for Bonaire established in Nov., 2006 along drying up freshwater pond near park entrance where the lapwings were. Seen at least 3 times, last was 19 Dec., 2006 (JCL, M and B. Babec and mob).

·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).

·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 aurocapilla 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 PEW 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). Two different individual seen on morning of 8 March, 2005 at Dos Pos Pond.

·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.

·Prothonotary 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). One observed along road near Dos Pos, early morning of 28 Dec., 04, (JCL, T. Hunefeld). Perhaps the same individual as reported 28 Dec., at same site on 8 March, 2005.

·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). Fall record, 1 at Fontein, bathing in only running water there, 28 Oct., 2003 (JCL). Beautiful male observed in palm trees in mango orchard across road from Dos Pos, morning of 28 Dec., 2004, (JCL, T. Hunefeld). Female came to squeeking 2 Jan, 07, Dos Pos windmill.

·Canada Warbler Wilsonia canadensis migrant and winter - N. A.

TANAGERS AND HONEYCREEPERS, BANAQUITS

·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).

·Summer Tanager Piranga rubra rare migrant from N. A. Voous, 1983 mentions two records both Curacao, one autumn, one spring, 1957. First record for Bonaire, 17 April, 2003, documented by excellent photographs by Ashbaughs of male in what Voous describes as in "chimaeric" stage which may be in any color from red to yellow showing up as blotches. Another one was observed the following morning, 18 April, 2003, a female, as it came in to sprinkling water at Dos Pos, (JCL).

·Red-legged Honeycreeper Cyanerpes cyaneus 1 old record, 1961, and 2004. Photos were taken, 25 March, 2004 of an immature female of this species at the Lac Bay complex by residents who reported the mystery bird came in to feed with the similar-sized Bananaquits on sugar. Photos show apparent decurved bill, streaking on underparts, red legs and bits of green on wings, and they report that it has been coming in to sugar feeder for about a month (G & K Voslow, JCL).

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, Population definitely increasing as other small groups have been seen along highway during the last two weeks of August, 2002 (JCL).

·Black-faced Grassquit Tiaris bicolor common nester

·Blue-black Grassquit Volatinia jacarina rare visitor - S. A. 1 record June, 1979 (Voous, 1983).

·Grasshopper Sparrow Ammodramus savannarum rare nester ; eggs found in June, 1977 (Voous, 1983); recent population discovered in deep grasslands on south side of Sereu Largo, with one good sighting within 30 feet of a singe bird with definite light colored median crown stripe and conspicuous yellow in lores; another smallish grass sparrow was jumped in the same area that flew about 60-70 feet and dropped back to the ground, 13 Dec., 2002 (JCL). Observed at least 4 pairs at same location as Dec., 2002, with the additional discovery of recently fledged young barely able to scramble over the grass, but more commonly relied on stealthily running along ground, 20 Jan., 2004 (JCL, C. Powell, S. Hickson).

·?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 migrant and winter- N. A. Several records, mainly fall, 1 Oct., 1995, one bird seen in back yard in Hato region (D. Gassart) ; A female observed, 12 Nov., 2002, in Wash/Slag and described to me by Sipke Stapert fit this species “ black streaking across breast, prominent white eye-stripe, large bill making head round in cross-section” ( S. Stapert,JCL). Winter male seen on my birding tour, morning of 11 December, 2004 on the road across Seru Largu (JCL) .

·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 Passerina 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). Sightin of 1 at Fontein, 28 Oct., 2003 , had lots of blue intermixed with brown and good views afforded as it feed in tall grass, (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). First sighting of fall'03, one individual along entrance to Sand Dollar Condos, 8 Oct., 2003

·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.

·Baltimore 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). Sighting of 1 at feeder in Kelly Thorpe's yard across from Dive Flamingo Dive center, 28 Oct., 2003 (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).

202 @ 9 Jan, 03; 206 @ 16 Jan, 04