TEXAS BIRD RECORDS COMMITTEE REPORT FOR 1990 Greg W. Lasley 305 Loganberry Court Austin, Texas 78745-6527 This report contains the decisions of the Texas Bird Records Committee (hereafter "TBRC" or "committee") of the Texas Ornithological Society reached during 1990. For information on previous actions of the TBRC see Arnold (1984 & 1985) and Lasley (1988, 1989, 1990). The TBRC requests and reviews documentation on any record of a Texas Review Species (see end of report) as well as any record of any species if requested to do so by a member of the TBRC. Some of the records submitted to the TBRC during 1990 were gleaned from old American Birds or Christmas Bird Count files, thus some portion of the work of the committee during 1990 was to catch up on older records. The TBRC reached a final decision on 151 records during 1990: 85 records of 50 species were accepted and 66 records of 43 species were not accepted, an acceptance rate of 56% for this report. There were 190 observers who submitted documentation (to the TBRC or to other entities) that was reviewed by the committee during 1990. This report officially adds five species to the Texas state list: Trumpeter Swan, Short-tailed Hawk, Anthracothorax species hummingbird, Black Catbird and Gray Silky-flycatcher. In addition, the TBRC (at its annual meeting in March, 1990) voted to officially accept historical records of Passenger Pigeon and Carolina Parakeet as extinct species in Texas; these two species had not previously ever been listed on the state list. The committee also voted not to accept the 1876 reports of Rufous-tailed Hummingbird in Texas (since no specimen, photo, or accepted description exists) thus deleting that species from the Texas list. These actions brought the official Texas state list to 577 species in good standing at the end of 1990. There were several records that will complete circulation through the TBRC in early 1991 that will represent new Texas species. The TBRC solicits reports of any species on the Review List as well as any species not previously accepted for Texas. We desire written descriptions as well as photographs and tape recordings if available. If anyone has information concerning a Review Species but is unsure how to submit that information please contact any member of the TBRC or the author of this report. There is a document available that lists every known record of the Review Species and gives the status (accepted, unaccepted, submitted/In circulation, or unsubmitted) of each record. If interested in this document, contact the author. The records in this report are arranged taxonomically following The AOU Checklist of North American Birds (AOU 1983) as currently supplemented. A number in parentheses after the species name represents the total number of accepted records in Texas for that species at the end of 1990. This number will be listed for all Review Species, but not for records of other species (see end of report). Within each species the records are listed chronologically. All observers who submitted written documentation or photos of accepted records are listed by initials. There has been no attempt to list all observers who saw a particular bird. The TBRC file number of each record will follow the observer(s) initials. This number consists of the year the record was originally submitted to the committee followed by a dash then a number. If photos are on file with the TBRC, the Texas Photo Record File (TPRF)(Texas A&M University) number is also given. If a tape recording of the bird is on file with the TBRC, the Texas Bird Sounds Library (TBSL)(Sam Houston State University) number is also given. Specimen records are denoted with an asterisk (*) followed by the institution where the specimen is housed and the catalog number if available. The information in each account is usually based on the information provided in the original submitted documentation; however, in some cases I have supplemented this with a full range of dates the bird(s) was present if that information was made available to me later. All locations in italics are counties. TBRC Membership. - Members of the TBRC during 1990 who participated in all decisions listed in this report are: Keith Arnold, Chairman, Greg Lasley, Secretary, Ted Eubanks, Jim Morgan, Barry Zimmer, Warren Pulich and John Arvin. In addition, Ken Seyffert retired from the committee during 1989 and Chuck Sexton was elected as a member. Both of these persons participated in many of the decisions listed in this report. Contributors. - Kathy Adams, Bruce Aird, Lynn Aldrich, Tony Amos, Frank Blake Armstrong (FBA), John Arvin, Mike Austin, John Baird (JBa), Betty & Dan Baker (B&DBak), Mike Baldwin (MBa), Larry & Martha Ballard, Kenn Barrett, Sharon Bartels, Bob Behrstock, Charles Bender, Chris Benesh (ChrB), Gene Blacklock, Michael Bornstein, Vaunda & Gerald Boscamp, Bill Bourbon (BBo), Bob & Myra Braden (B&MBrad), Mike Braun, John Buckman, Sheriton Burr (SBu), Charlie Callagan (CCa), Allen Chartier, Ken & Betty Christopher, Tom Cole, Fred & Kassie Collins (F&KCo), Sherry Collins (SCol), Mary Cook (MaC), Arlie & Mel Cooksey (A&MC), Bessie Cornelius, Sue Corson, Ralph Dakin, Lee Daniel, David Dauphin, Owen Davis, Debbie Dekeyzer (DDe), Mike Denny, Arch Dillard, Ural Donohoe, Karen Edelson, Jim & Pat Ellis, Victor Emanuel, Ruth Emery, Rosemary English (RoE), Ted Eubanks, Mike & Rose Farmer (M&RFa), T. Ben Feltner, Linda Ferry, Shawneen Finnegan, John Flinn, Mark Flippo (MFl), Lynn Forster, Brush Freeman, Tony Gallucci, Louise & Red Gambill, Luther Goldman, Jeff Gordon, Peter Gottschling, Jesse Grantham, Gene Grimes, Joseph Grom, Roxanne Gunter (RGu), Connie Hagar (CoH), Laurens Halsey, Bruce Halstead, Thad & Beverly Harden (T&BH), Gaile Hardwick, Bill Harwell, Carl Haynie, Mitch Heindel, Ray Heitman (RaH), Rhandy Helton, Jim Henderson, Julia Hill (JHi), Michael Hill, Bob Honig (BHo), Nick Jackson, Murray James, Peter Jenkins, Cheryl Johnson, Jerome Johnson, Greg Joiner, T. Paul Jones, Kevin Karlson, Greg Keiran, Jane Kittleman, Mike Krzywonski, Greg Lasley, Geneva LaVern (GLav), Paul Lehman, Jason Leifester, Mark Lockwood, Sue Lower, Willem Maane, Steve Madge, Jo Ann Mastin (JAM), Jim McAllister (JMc), Guy McCaskie, Doris McGuire, Ann McKenzie, Brad McKinney, Vicki McLemore, Ruthie Melton, F. W. Miller, Jim Morgan, Allen Mueller, John Muldrow (JMu), Michael Musumeche, Davis Muth (DaMu), Donald Myers, Ken Nanney, Helen & Tom Nelson, Hazel Nichols, Andrew O'Neil, Wolfgang Oesterreich, Richard Orr, Brent Ortego, Nancy & Paul Palmer, Marilyn Patterson, Mike Patterson, Rob Pearson, Jon Peterson, Noel Pettingell, Kevin Pierce, Tom Pincelli, Randy Pinkston, Charles Potter, Robert Powell (RPo), Dottie Praus, Warren Pulich, Sr., Dan Purrington (DPu), Robin Rabinowitz (RRab), Ross Rasmussen, Ray Rauch (RaR), Jo & Jerry Redden, Roger Reisch (RRe), J. V. Remsen, Barbara Ribble, David Rice, Bob Righter (BoR), Teresa Risdon, B. J. Rose (BJR), L. D. Rumfield (LDR), Tom Schulenberg, Willie Sekula, George Sellers, Chuck Sexton, Ken Seyffert, David Simon (DSi), Wanda Smith (WaS), Linda Snyder, Rich Stallcup, Darleen Stevens, Leonard Stiles, Byron Stone, Rose Marie Stortz (RMS), Jim & Betty Sullivan, Jack Sunder, Stanley Thames, John Tveten, Richard Uzar, Gene Warren, Ro Wauer, Herbert Wessling, Thomas White, Bret Whitney, Karl Wiedenfeld, Francis Williams, Steve Williams, Scott Wilson (ScW), David Wolf, and Barry Zimmer. Acknowledgements. - The TBRC is very grateful to the many contributors listed above, without whom this report would not be possible. We would also like to offer our sincere thanks to the following consultants who provided the TBRC with expert opinion, advice, or other information concerning records reviewed during 1990: Larry Balch, Richard Banks, Paul Buckley, Kimball Garrett, J. W. Hardy, Bill Harrington-Tweit, Peter Harrison, Dave Lee, Ron Naveen, Storrs Olson, Robert Ridgely, Ralph Schreiber, Tom Schulenberg, F. Gary Stiles, Peter Vickery, and Terry Wahl. The author would also like to thank Martin Reid and Chuck Sexton for reviewing earlier drafts of this article and making many helpful comments and suggestions. Additional Abbreviations. - AB = American Birds magazine; BBNP = Big Bend National Park; CBC = Christmas Bird Count; GMNP = Guadalupe Mountains National Park; LRGV = Lower Rio Grande Valley; NWR = National Wildlife Refuge; SP = State Park; TCWC = Texas Cooperative Wildlife Collection (Texas A&M University); UTC = Upper Texas Coast. ACCEPTED RECORDS Pacific Loon (Gavia pacifica)(25). The TBRC previously considered all records as Arctic/Pacific Loon since sight or photographic records are difficult to identify to species. The TBRC has now decided to list all records as Pacific Loon (which is the only one of the two species to have been documented in the lower 48 states) until proven otherwise. One was at the Texas City Dike, Galveston on 26 December 1981 (DD, VM; 1989-72). One was seen at Offat's Bayou, Galveston from 26 Dec 1988 until 8 April 1989 (SW, TE, JB; 1989-27). One was photographed on N. Padre Island, Kleberg on 28 October 1989 (LDR, JG; 1990-1, TPRF #836). One was photographed at the Texas City Dike 12-14 December 1989 (GL, RU; 1989-257, TPRF #834). One was at Offat's Bayou on 15 December 1989 (GL; 1989-258, TPRF #835). This bird was discovered before and remained after that date but no additional information was ever submitted to the TBRC. Another bird was at Sabine Lake, Jefferson on 20 January 1990 (MA, PG; 1990-17). Clark's Grebe (Aechmophorus clarkii). One or two were at Lake Balmorhea, Reeves 15 September-16 December 1989 (ML; 1989-252, TPRF #832). One was at Ft. Bliss Sewage Ponds, El Paso on 23 September 1989 (BZ, ScW; 1989-228). This species is now regarded as a rare but regular winter visitor to west Texas and is no longer on the regular Review List (see end of report). Cory's Shearwater (Calonectris diomedea). One was seen and photographed at the mouth of the Brownsville Ship Channel, Cameron from 25 June until 9 July 1988 (JL; 1989-151, TPRF #778). Five were photographed on a pelagic trip off of Port Aransas, Nueces on 7 October 1989 (PG, LA, GL, LH; 1989-207, TPRF #813). This species is now regarded as a regular late summer and fall visitor to Texas waters and is no longer on the regular Review List (see end of report). Band-rumped Storm-Petrel (Oceanodroma castro)(6). An exhaused bird landed on board a University of Texas research vessel approx 75 mi off of Port Aransas, Nueces on 11 June 1988 (TA; 1988-279, TPRF #817). The bird was later released. One was found dead 14 May 1989 at Port Aransas (TA; 1989-230, *TCWC #12440). Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus)(10). Three were at the Neuman Road Pond in Waller on 4 July 1989 (TE; 1989-174). Trumpeter Swan (Cygnus buccinator)(1). A group of seven cygnets from Alaskan eggs were released from a Trumpeter Swan recovery program in Wisconsin on 19 November 1989. These seven birds (identified from numbered neck collars) spent the period from 23 December 1989-5 February 1990 at two locations in Dallas and were also seen in Collin (T&BH; TPRF #798). This record was accepted by the TBRC at its annual meeting as the first documented record for Texas. Brant (Branta bernicla)(8). One was shot near Vernon, Wilbarger on 28 December 1956 (JH; 1989-240, TPRF #818). This record had previously been considered a valid record but the TBRC was able to obtain complete documentation and a photo of the mounted specimen which is now in a private collection. See Henderson (1960). Muscovy Duck (Cairina moschata). Two were seen at the Santa Margarita Ranch, Starr on 1 May 1989 (DR; 1989-183). One was photographed at the Santa Margarita Ranch on 11 July 1989 (BZ; 1989-198, TPRF #786). Up to nine were at Salineno, Starr from 27-30 December 1990 (RR, TS; 1990-14). This species is now considered to be an uncommon to rare permanent resident along the Rio Grande in the vicinity of Falcon Lake and has been removed from the main Review List (see end of report). Eurasian Wigeon (Anas penelope)(7). One male was at the Santa Margarita Ranch, Starr from 30 December 1989 until 13 January 1990 (MP, GK, TS, JG, CS; 1990-6, TPRF #846). This record also provided one of very few valid reports for Mexico. Barrow's Goldeneye (Bucephala islandica)(1). One male was shot near Greenville, Hunt on 6 November 1958 (TC, FWM, WP; 1989-202, TPRF #787). This record, the only one currently accepted in the state, was reviewed by the TBRC when photos of the mounted specimen (now in a private collection) were submitted. See Miller (1959). Masked Duck (Oxyura dominica)(7). One male was seen at Brazoria NWR, Brazoria on 26 April 1989 (SCol, AD; 1989-172). Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)(5). An immature bird was at the El Paso Country Club, El Paso on 13 November 1989 (BZ; 1989-244, TPRF #812). This record represented the first time the species had been photographed in Texas to our knowledge. Common Black-Hawk (Buteogallus anthracinus). A nesting pair was in Limpia Canyon in the Davis Mountains, Jeff Davis from 7 May until 27 July 1989 (ML; 1989-194, TPRF #783). This species has been taken off the main Review List by the TBRC but documentation is still solicited in order to study the status and distribution of the species within Texas (see end of report). Roadside Hawk (Buteo magnirostris)(3). One was seen at the Santa Margarita Ranch, Starr on 7 January 1979 (TE, FC, DD, TG, AM; 1989-187). Short-tailed Hawk (Buteo brachyurus)(1). One sub-adult was at the Santa Margarita Ranch, Starr from 22-28 July 1989, representing the first accepted state record (CH, TR, LH, KP, CB, RW; 1989-179, TPRF #833). A photo of this bird was published in AB 43:1339. Northern Jacana (Jacana spinosa)(10). An immature bird was at Hornsby Bend Ponds, Austin, Travis from 12 Nov-11 Dec 1989 (BF, JS, GL, CJ, CS, LA, PG; 1989-239, TPRF #810). Purple Sandpiper (Calidris maritima)(7). One was at Falcon Dam, Starr on 15-16 December 1975 (RPo, PJ; 1988-67). This record represented the first for the LRGV area and the second inland record for Texas. Curlew Sandpiper (Calidris ferruginea)(3). One juvenile was at the Hornsby Bend Ponds in Austin, Travis from 1-9 September 1989 (ChrB, BW, PG, GL; 1989-196, TPRF #785). Pomarine Jaeger (Stercoraris pomarinus). One was at Port Aransas, Nueces on 1 July 1989 (JMu; 1989-175, TPRF #780). One was at Port Aransas on 5 September 1989 (A&MC; 1990-16). Seven or eight were seen on a pelagic trip off Port Aransas on 4 November 1989 (MA, PG; 1989-242, TPRF #811). A photo of one of these birds was published in AB 44:123. This species has been removed from the regular Review List but documentation is still solicited (see end of report). Parasitic Jaeger (Stercoraris parasiticus). One was at Bolivar Flats, Galveston from 10-18 September 1983 (BB, TE, JM; 1989-241, TPRF #720). One was found dead at Corpus Christi, Nueces on 27 September 1989 (JG; 1989-232, TPRF #816, *TCWC #). Like the Pomarine Jaeger, this species has been removed from the regular Review List (see end of report). Little Gull (Larus minutus)(9). One adult was at Lake Waco, McLennan from 7-12 January 1990 (JMu, RR, ML; 1990-5). This was likely the same individual present at the same location in 1989 (Lasley, 1990). Common Black-headed Gull (Larus ridibundus)(3). One adult was at Lake Waco, McLennan from 31 December 1989 until at least 4 February 1990 (JMu; 1990-4, TPRF #844). California Gull (Larus californicus)(13). One adult was photographed on Mustang Island, Nueces on 13-14 February 1990 (GL, SBu; 1990-32, TPRF #843). A photo of this bird was published in AB 44:292. Thayer's Gull (Larus thayeri)(8). One first-winter bird was at Bolivar Flats, Galveston on 23 April 1980 (BW, GL, LF; 1981-9, TPRF #772). This record was originally not accepted by the TBRC in 1981 but was resubmitted and accepted this year. Lesser Black-backed Gull (Larus fuscus)(33). One adult was at San Luis Pass, Brazoria on 5 September 1989 (BoR; 1989-200) representing the earliest ever fall date for Texas. One immature (probably a second winter bird) was at Boca Chica, Cameron on 11 November 1989 (CS; 1989-261). Glaucous Gull (Larus hyperboreus)(32). One immature (first or second winter) was at Galveston, Galveston on 31 January 1990 (MA; 1990-29). Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus)(12). One first-winter bird was at San Luis Pass, Galveston on 18 December 1989 (TE, JM; 1990-12, TPRF #845). Sabine's Gull (Xema sabini)(20). One adult was at Mitchell Lake, Bexar on 2 September 1989 (WS; 1989-199) representing only the second record ever for an adult in Texas. One juvenal bird was at Fort Bliss, El Paso on 17 September 1989 (BZ; 1989-227, TPRF #814). Bridled Tern (Sterna anaethetus)(6). One immature was at Boca Chica, Cameron on 20 September 1988 following Hurricane Gilbert (BM; 1989-146). Northern Saw-whet Owl (Aegolius acadicus)(9). One was tape recorded at GMNP, Culberson on 18 June 1989 (BS; 1989-178, TBSL #203-01). This calling bird was recorded with a small pocket tape recorder with a built-in microphone illustrating that bird vocalizations can be documented without a lot of fancy and expensive equipment. Green Violet-ear (Colibri thalassinus)(10). One was at Sinton, San Patricio from 22 June-11 July 1989 (V&GB, CH, PG, SB, JB, BZ, T&BH, JF, GB; 1989-177, TPRF #782). A photo of this bird was published in AB 43:1278. Mango species (Anthracothorax species)(1). One female or immature was at Brownsville, Cameron from 14-23 September 1988 (MBa; 1988-272, TPRF #773). This record was submitted as a Green-breasted Mango and it very likely pertains to that species. The TBRC was presented with expert opinion that indicated that several other similar Anthracothorax species could not be eliminated on the basis of the submitted photos. The TBRC voted to admit the bird on the Texas list as Mango species, the first record of its genus in the United States. A photo of this bird was published in AB 43:26. Lewis' Woodpecker (Melanerpes lewis)(16). One was at Buffalo Lake NWR, Randall on 17 September 1989 (KS; 1989-205). One was at Lorenzo, Crosby from 24 Nov-5 Dec 1989 (ML, DS; 1989-249, TPRF #830). Two were at Midland, Midland from 3 December 1989-5 May 1990 (RMS, FW, GG; 1990-20, TPRF #839). One was at Balmorhea, Reeves on 16 December 1989 (ML; 1990-15, TPRF #837). Up to four were at Elephant Mountain, Brewster from 15 January-28 February 1990 (ML; 1990-25, TPRF #842). Williamson's Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus thyroideus). One female was at GMNP, Culberson on 3 October 1989 (RRe; 1989-219). One male was at GMNP on 6 October 1989 (RRe; 1989-220). One female was at Davis Mountains SP, Jeff Davis on 22 October 1989 (ML; 1989-248, TPRF #829). One male was at Madera Canyon, Jeff Davis on 23-26 November 1989 (RR; 1989-251). One male at Madera Canyon on 9 February 1990 (possibly the same bird as the November, 1989 record)(MA, PG, LA; 1990-30). This species has been removed from the main Review List but documentation is still requested (see end of report). Ringed Kingfisher (Ceryle torquata). Although not a Review Species, the TBRC was requested to review this record as it provided the first report for the UTC area. One female was at Brazos Bend SP, Ft. Bend from 21 October until early December 1989 (RO, RRab, JM, TE, PG, GLaV, DP, BHo; 1989-250, TPRF #831). Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher (Myiodynastes luteiventris) (4). One was at Big Boggy NWR, Matagorda on 16 September 1989 (JHi, MaC; 1989-210). Thick-billed Kingbird (Tyrannus crassirostris)(6). One was at Rio Grande Village, BBNP, Brewster on 11 April and 3 May 1989 (J&JRe, K&BCh, BBo; 1989-197). Up to 5 (2 adults and 3 juvenals) were at Cottonwood Campground, BBNP from 11 April until at least 29 July 1989 (WM, ML, CCa, DaMu, DPu, GL, PG, LA, BBo, RGu, RaH, RD, BZ; 1989-133, TPRF #774, TBSL #191-01) providing the first Texas nesting record for the species. Clay-colored Robin (Turdus grayi)(30). One was at Santa Ana NWR, Hidalgo on 19 May 1989 (DaM, DPu; 1989-168). One was at Kingsville, Kleberg from 14-28 January 1990 (N&PP; 1990-18, TPRF #838). One was on N. Padre Island, Nueces on 14 January 1990 (J&BSu, JG, MC; 1990-24, TPRF #841). One was found dead outside a window on the King Ranch, Kleberg, on 1 February 1990 (LS, PP; 1990-22, TPRF #840, *TCWC #). In addition to these reports the resident pair at Bentsen SP contined to be seen. Varied Thrush (Ixoreus naevius)(8). One was seen on the Tejas Trail, GMNP, Culberson on 3 October 1989 (MFl; 1989-209). One was in Fort Worth, Tarrant on 19 December 1989 (MJ, JAM; 1990-2). Black Catbird (Melanoptila glabrirostris)(1). One was collected at or near Brownsville, Cameron on 21 June 1892 (FBA; *Philadelphia Academy of Natural Sciences #42944). At the annual meeting of the TBRC on 3 March 1990 it was unanimously decided to add Black Catbird to the official Texas list based on the above specimen record. There has been a cloud over the origin of the specimen from time to time (Oberholser 1974). In light of evidence concerning Armstrong's collections, the TBRC decided there was no valid reason to ignore this extant specimen. This record has now been submitted to the ABA and AOU for their consideration. Gray Silky-flycatcher (Ptilogonys cinereus)(1). One was at Laguna Atascosa NWR, Cameron from 31 October-11 November 1985 (L&RG, JK, KE, TP, KA, NJ, MA, GL; 1989-37, TPRF #363). The specific identification of this record was never a question, but the origin of the bird has been debated by many birders, experts, and consultants alike. This record was thoroughly investigated by the TBRC and finally accepted when the preponderance of the evidence suggests that this was indeed a wild bird. This record has now also been accepted by the ABA and is being considered by the AOU. See Lasley and Pincelli (1986). Northern Shrike (Lanius excubitor). One immature was at GMNP, Culberson on 2 January 1989 (ML; 1989-192). One immature was in Dallam on 27 October 1989 (BJR; 1989-234). One immature was in Amarillo, Potter on 10 December 1989 (KS; 1989-254). One immature was at Amarillo, Randall on 10 December 1989 (KS; 1989-255)(a different bird from the Potter record above). One immature was near Lake Tanglewood, Randall on 16 December 1989 (KS; 1989-260). One immature was at Buffalo Lake NWR, Randall on 18 February 1990 (KS; 1990-26). This species has been removed from the main Review List but documentation is still requested (see end of report). Yellow-green Vireo (Vireo flavoviridis)(4). The previous report of the TBRC (Lasley 1990) listed five accepted records of this species. Three of those records involved alleged specimens that have not been located. Those records have been removed from the accepted list until those specimens are found. Presented here are two additional accepted records for a current total of only four currently accepted records for the state. A pair was present at Laguna Atascosa NWR from 25 May-10 September 1989 (MFa, TP, BZ, MK, JB, PG, LA; 1989-165, TPRF #779). This was likely the same pair that was present at the same location the year before (1988-224), and, as in 1988, the pair nested in 1989. A photo of on of these birds was published in AB 43:1279. Another singing bird was in Brownsville, Cameron from 22 June-10 July 1989 (M&RFa; 1989-166). Black-whiskered Vireo (Vireo altiloquus)(5). Up to two were at High Island, Galveston from 20 August-2 October 1989 (MA, PG, LA, JBa; 1989-195, TPRF #784, TBSL #196-01). It was suspected that this pair of birds may have attempted to nest, but no conclusive nesting evidence was ever submitted. Golden-cheeked Warbler (Dendroica chrysoparia). One was seen on west Galveston Island, Galveston on 3 August 1977 (DW; 1989-161). Although not a Review Species, this record was reviewed by the TBRC since it represented the first (and only) record for the UTC. Golden-crowned Warbler (Basileuterus culicivorus)(7). One was at the Sabal Palm Sanctuary in Brownsville, Cameron from 23 October 1989-12 January 1990 (TP, M&RFa, CS, BM, PG, LH; 1989-236, TPRF #819). A photo of this bird was published in AB 44:29. Baird's Sparrow (Ammodramus bairdii). Four were seen on 15 April 1989 in Jeff Davis (PL, SF; 1989-164). This species has been removed from the main Review List but documentation is still requested. See end of report. Golden-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia atricapilla)(7). One immature was at Big Spring, Howard from 19-28 December 1983 (GW, SC; 1988-113, TPRF #792). One immature was seen at Caprock Canyons SP, Briscoe on 1 January 1990 (KS; 1990-3). Snow Bunting (Plectrophenax nivalis)(3). One adult male in breeding plumage was seen in the Chisos Basin at BBNP, Brewster on 9 May 1988 (T&HN, B&MBra; 1988-214). Pine Grosbeak (Pinicola enucleator)(3). One was in Lubbock, Lubbock on 1 May 1988 (RoE; 1988-232). This large northern finch is extremely rare in Texas, but the Panhandle is one of the areas to hope to see one. House Finch (Carpodacus mexicanus). One was in Houston, Harris on 26-27 March 1988 (F&KCo; 1988-212, TPRF #791). Although not on the Review List, this record was reviewed by the TBRC as it represented the first for the UTC. Black-vented Oriole (Icterus wagleri)(4). One was near Kingsville, Kleberg from 17 June-4 October 1989 (JG, B&DBak, MA, PG, GL, CH, SB, MK; 1989-176, TPRF #781). The first three Texas records of this species all pertain to the same bird which frequented Rio Grande Village in BBNP in 1968, 1969 and 1970. See Wauer (1970). A photo of the Kleberg bird was published in AB 43:1279. UNACCEPTED RECORDS A number of factors may contribute to a record being denied acceptance. It is quite uncommon for a record to not be accepted because the bird was obviously misidentified. More commonly, a record is denied acceptance because the material submitted to the TBRC was incomplete, insufficient, superficial, or just too vague to properly document the reported occurrence while eliminating all other similar species. Also, written documentation or descriptions prepared entirely from memory weeks, months, or years after a sighting are seldom voted on favorably. It is important that I stress here that the simple act of not accepting a particular record should by no means indicate that the TBRC or any of its members necessarily feels the record did not occur as reported. The non-acceptance of any record simply reflects the opinion of the TBRC that the documentation, as submitted, did not meet the rigorous standards appropriate for adding data to the formal historical record. The TBRC makes every effort to be as fair and objective as possible regarding each record. If the committee is unsure about any particular record, it prefers to err on the conservative side and not accept a good record rather than validate a bad one. All records, whether accepted or not, remain on file and can be re-submitted to the committee if additional substantive material is presented. Red-throated Loon (Gavia stellata). One (1989-71) at Texas City, Galveston on 26 December 1981. One (1989-70) at Texas City on 13 March 1986. One to five (1989-84) at Texas City from 31 January until 15 February 1987. Pacific Loon (Gavia pacifica). Two (1989-223) at Houston, Harris on 27 December 1962. Red-necked Grebe (Podiceps auritus). Five (1988-287) at Boles Lake in Lubbock, Lubbock on 23 September 1988. Sooty Shearwater (Puffinus griseus). One (1989-53) at Rollover Pass, Galveston on 27 April 1986. Photos of this bird have been identified as a White-chinned Petrel (Procellaria aequinoctialis), the first record for the United States (and possibly for the northern hemisphere). Full details will be published elsewhere. Audubon's Shearwater (Puffinus lherminieri). One (1989-238) about 60 miles off Port Aransas, Nueces on 4 November 1989. Small shearwaters are usually very difficult to see well and even harder to well document. Only one observer submitted documentation on this bird that was apparently seen by many. The TBRC did not feel that several other small shearwaters could be confidently eliminated from the submitted description, although it is very likely that Audubon's was seen. Ascension Frigatebird (Fregata aquila). One (1989-208) seen at Port Bolivar, Galveston on 29 April 1980. This interesting record of a bird photographed from the Bolivar ferry has been making the rounds with seabird experts of the world for several years. In the final analysis it was determined that although Ascension Frigatebird was certainly a possibility, that an immature Magnificent could not be ruled out from the photos or the description submitted. Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus). One (1989-233) at Anahuac NWR, Chambers on 9 April 1989. Although this species is being documented more frequently in Texas in recent years (and may be actually occurring more often), all records should be thoroughly documented. Barrow's Goldeneye (Bucephala islandica). One female (1989-206) at Hornsby Bend Ponds, Austin, Travis from 26-29 November 1981. This bird was seen by many observers at the fall, 1981 TOS meeting in Austin. Photos of this bird were initially verified as being Barrow's by the U.S. National Museum. Several years later the museum withdrew this verification based on new information regarding immature goldeneyes. Masked Duck (Oxyura dominica). One (1989-184) at Laguna Atascosa NWR, Cameron on 7 January 1975. Snail Kite (Rostrhamus socialilis). One (1989-218) on South Padre Island, Cameron on 4 October 1971. Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis). One (1989-127) at San Bernard NWR, Brazoria on 23 March 1989. One (1989-173) at Bentsen SP, Hidalgo on 16 April 1989. One (1989-243) at GMNP, Culberson on 27 October 1989. Swainson's Hawk (Buteo swainsoni). Although not on the state Review List, the Texas Christmas Bird Count editor has requested the TBRC to review all records of this species submitted on CBCs. One (1989-190) at Laguna Atascosa NWR, Cameron on 16 December 1988. One (1989-188) in Brazoria on 17 December 1988. One (1989-191) at San Antonio, Bexar on 18 December 1988. One (1989-189) in Hidalgo on 19 December 1988. Most descriptions of winter Swainson's Hawks submitted to CBC compilers are very superficial and vague and do not allow the committee to vote in favor of them. Caribbean Coot (Fulica caribaea). One (1989-226) at Santa Ana NWR, Hidalgo on 15 March 1982. The field identification of "white-shielded coots" has been questioned as has the true status of this species. See Clark (1985) and Roberson and Baptista (1988). Spotted Redshank (Tringa erythropus). One (1989-215) at Rockport, Aransas on 16-17 April 1962. One (1989-216) at Rockport on 17-18 April 1969. Wood Sandpiper (Tringa glareola). One (1989-217) near Laguna Atascosa NWR, Cameron from 14-17 November 1977. One (1989-253) on 3-4 September 1989 at Corpus Christi, Nueces. Surfbird (Aphriza virgata). One (1989-117) on 12 April 1980 at Bolivar Flats, Galveston. Purple Sandpiper (Calidris maritima). One (1989-41) at Galveston, Galveston on 29 March 1972. Two (1989-33) at Galveston from 22-25 January 1974. One (1989-225) at Galveston on 2 May 1982. Ruff (Philomachus pugnax). Two (1988-57) at Galveston, Galveston on 28-29 April 1968. These two birds were initially reported as accepted records by the TBRC (Lasley 1989) but were re-submitted during 1990 at the request of a member of the committee. Based on additional information the committee voted not to accept the record. One (1989-213) at Anahuac NWR, Chambers on 26 April 1971. One (1989-163) in Galveston from 24-26 April 1978. One (1989-246) near the mouth of the Colorado River in Matagorda on 10 April 1989. Records of this species should be carefully documented. Several records submitted to the TBRC (and even a set of photos) pertain to Pectoral Sandpipers in various plumages. Little Gull (Larus minutus). One (1989-108) at White Rock Lake, Dallas on 9 December 1988. Mew Gull (Larus canus). One (1989-88) at Lake Balmorhea, Reeves on 20-21 February 1989. California Gull (Larus californicus). Two (1987-14) at Amarillo, Randall on 2 May 1987. This record was initially reported as unaccepted by the TBRC in 1987 (Lasley 1988). It was re-submitted to the committee after additional material was presented; it was again unaccepted. Thayer's Gull (Larus thayeri). One (1989-44) at Lake Murvaul, Panola from 2-8 January 1989. Lesser Black-backed Gull (Larus fuscus). One (1988-280) on Mustang Island, Nueces on 27 September 1988. There was not enough material presented to eliminate several other dark-backed gull species. Glaucous Gull (Larus hyperboreus). One (1989-89) at Gilchrist, Galveston on 7 February 1985. One (1989-170) about 6 miles east of High Island in Jefferson on 15 April 1989. Great Black-backed Gull (Larus marinus). One second or third winter bird (1989-112) at Bolivar Flats, Galveston on 18 March 1975. One first winter bird (1989-113) at Freeport, Brazoria on 4 January 1976. One first winter bird (1989-224) in Matagorda on 12 December 1980. One third-winter bird (1989-259) at Boca Chica, Cameron on 2 October 1989. Ruddy Ground-Dove (Columbina talpacoti). One (1989-182) at Bentsen SP, Hidalgo on 25 January 1989. Brightly plumaged Common Ground-Doves are often reported as Ruddy Ground-Doves. See Dunn and Garrett (1990). Northern Pygmy-Owl (Glaucidium gnoma). One (1988-114) in the Chisos Mountains of BBNP, Brewster on 28 December 1983. One (1989-104) in Boot Canyon, BBNP, Brewster on 7-8 August 1982. There is still only one currently accepted record of this species in Texas. Vaux's Swift (Chaetura vauxi). One (1989-193) at Lake Livingston, Polk on 21 December 1988. Ten (1989-180) at Lufkin, Angelina on 21-22 March 1989. There is still not an accepted record of this species in Texas although it almost certainly occurs. The species has been documented in Louisiana on several occasions during winter months. Green-breasted Mango (Anthracothorax prevostii). One (1988-272) at Brownsville, Cameron. Some hummingbird authorities questioned whether the submitted photos could eliminate other mango species. The TBRC voted to not accept this record as a Green-breasted Mango at this time, but did accept it as a Mango species. Refer to this record under the accepted category earlier in this report. Violet-crowned Hummingbird (Amazilia violiceps). One (1988-194) at BBNP, Brewster on 7 November 1987. Magnificent Hummingbird (Eugenes fulgens). Although not on the state Review List, it was requested that this record be reviewed by the TBRC since it would have represented a first for the UTC area. One (1989-162) at Beaumont, Jefferson on 27 November 1985. Elegant Trogon (Trogon elegans). One (1988-72) at San Benito, Cameron on 23-24 September 1957. This record was initially reported as unaccepted by the TBRC in 1988 (Lasley 1989) but was re-submitted when some material was received from one of the original observers; again, it was not accepted. Greater Pewee (Contopus pertinax). One (1989-221) on west Galveston Island, Galveston on 2 May 1964. Dusky-capped Flycatcher (Myiarchus tuberculifer). One (1989-231) at the Chisos Basin, BBNP, Brewster on 22 August 1986. Rose-throated Becard (Pachyramphus aglaiae). One (1989-39) at Santa Ana NWR, Hildago on 27 December 1958. Black-billed Magpie (Pica pica). One (1989-203) at or near Coleyville, Tarrant from 2 August until 25 December 1989. The identification of this bird was not questioned. The TBRC expressed concerns over the origin of the bird and several members cited experiences in the Dallas area with captive magpies. Also of concern was the initial date of the discovery which would not typically coincide with a fall movement of this species. As with all TBRC records, this one may be re-submitted at a later date if additional evidence warrants. A photo of this bird was published in AB 44:125. Varied Thrush (Ixoreus naevius). One (1989-204) at Denton, Denton on 24 July 1989. Bohemian Waxwing (Bombycilla garrulus). One (1989-120) in Houston, Harris on 20 February 1980. One (1989-181) at Longview, Gregg on 29 March 1989. Connecticut Warbler (Oporornis agilis). One (1989-51) at Houston, Harris on 7 October 1972. One (1989-169) at Santa Ana NWR, Hidalgo on 15 March 1989. Gray-crowned Yellowthroat (Geothlypis poliocephala). One (1989-214) at Harlingen, Cameron on 14 June 1959. Blue Bunting (Cyanocompsa parellina). One female (1988-126) at Santa Ana NWR, Hidalgo on 5 January 1988. This was a different individual (different area of the refuge) from the 12 January 1988 accepted record (Lasley 1989). One female (1989-126) at Bentsen SP, Hidalgo on 20 December 1988. This was a different individual from the other accepted records of this species at Bentsen during the same period (Lasley 1989). Orange-breasted Bunting (Passerina leclancherii). One (1989-167) at San Juan, Hidalgo on 30 June 1986 was unaccepted on the basis of questionable origin. This west Mexican species is a common cage bird in markets in northern Mexico. Lawrence's Goldfinch (Carduelis lawrencei). Three (1989-143) at Cottonwood Campground, BBNP, Brewster on 6 April 1989. There remains but one accepted record of this species in the state. Literature Cited American Ornithologists Union. 1983. Checklist of North American Birds, 6th ed. American Ornith. Union, Baltimore, MD. Arnold, K.A. 1984. Decisions of the T.O.S. Bird Records Committee for 1984. Bull. Texas Ornith. Soc. 17 (1&2): 18-19. _____. 1985. Decisions of the T.O.S. Bird Records Committee for 1985. Bull. Texas Ornith. Soc. 18 (1&2): 31-32. Clark, C.T. 1985. Caribbean Coot? Birding 17:84-88. Dunn, J.L., and K. Garrett. 1990. Identification of Ruddy and Common Ground-Doves. Birding 22:138-145. Henderson, J.C. 1960. A Texas Record of the Black Brant. Auk 77:227. Lasley, G.W. and T. Pincelli. 1986. Gray Silky-flycatcher in Texas. Birding 18:34-36. Lasley, G.W.. 1988. Texas Bird Records Committee Report for 1987. Bull. Texas Ornith. Soc. 21 (1&2):25-32. _____. 1989. Texas Bird Records Committee Report for 1988. Bull. Texas Ornith. Soc. 22 (1&2):2-14. _____. 1990. Texas Bird Records Committee Report for 1989. Bull. Texas Ornith. Soc. 23 (1&2):6-19. Miller, F.W. 1959. The Barrow Goldeneye in Texas. Condor 61:434. Oberholser, H.C. 1974. The Bird Life of Texas. The University of Texas Press, Austin. Roberson, D. and L.F. Baptista. 1988. White-shielded coots in North America: a critical evaluation. American Birds 42:1241-1246. TBRC Review List The TBRC requests details, including descriptions and photos if possible, of all records of the following species. Review List A: Rarities. These species, in general, include birds that have occurred four or fewer times per year anywhere in Texas over a ten year average. The TBRC requests documentation for any unsubmitted record of the species below no matter how long ago the record occurred. The TBRC also requests details on any record of a species not yet accepted on the Texas State List. Red-throated Loon, Pacific Loon, Yellow-billed Loon, Red-necked Grebe, Yellow-nosed Albatross, Greater Shearwater, Sooty Shearwater, Manx Shearwater, Audubon's Shearwater, Wilson's Storm-Petrel, Leach's Storm-Petrel, Band-rumped Storm-Petrel, Red-billed Tropicbird, Blue-footed Booby, Brown Booby, Red-footed Booby, Glossy Ibis, Jabiru, Greater Flamingo, Trumpeter Swan, Brant, American Black Duck, White-cheeked Pintail, Garganey, Eurasian Wigeon, Barrow's Goldeneye, Masked Duck, Snail Kite, Northern Goshawk, Crane Hawk, Roadside Hawk, Short-tailed Hawk, Paint-billed Crake, Spotted Rail, Double-striped Thick-Knee, Northern Jacana, Eskimo Curlew, Surfbird, Purple Sandpiper, Curlew Sandpiper, Ruff, Long-tailed Jaeger, Little Gull, Common Black-headed Gull, Heermann's Gull, Mew Gull, California Gull, Thayer's Gull, Lesser Black-backed Gull, Western Gull, Glaucous Gull, Great Black-backed Gull, Black-legged Kittiwake, Sabine's Gull, Elegant Tern, Bridled Tern, Brown Noddy, Black Noddy, Ruddy Ground-Dove, Mangrove Cuckoo, Snowy Owl, Northern Pygmy-Owl, Mottled Owl, Northern Saw-whet Owl, White-collared Swift, Green Violet-ear, Broad-billed Hummingbird, White-eared Hummingbird, Violet-crowned Hummingbird, Costa's Hummingbird, Allen's Hummingbird, Elegant Trogon, Lewis' Woodpecker, Ivory-billed Woodpecker (presumed extirpated in Texas), Greenish Elaenia, Greater Pewee, Dusky-capped Flycatcher, Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher, Tropical Kingbird, Thick-billed Kingbird, Gray Kingbird, Fork-tailed Flycatcher, Rose-throated Becard, Gray-breasted Martin, Clark's Nutcracker, Black-billed Magpie, American Dipper, Clay-colored Robin, Rufous-backed Robin, Varied Thrush, Aztec Thrush, Black Catbird, Bohemian Waxwing, Gray Silky-flycatcher, Black-whiskered Vireo, Yellow-green Vireo, Yucatan Vireo, Connecticut Warbler, Gray-crowned Yellowthroat, Red-faced Warbler, Golden-crowned Warbler, Rufous-capped Warbler, Crimson-collared Grosbeak, Blue Bunting, Henslow's Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Yellow-eyed Junco, Snow Bunting, Black-vented Oriole, Pine Grosbeak, White-winged Crossbill, Common Redpoll, Lawrence's Goldfinch. Review List B: Species under special study by a sub-committee of the TBRC concerning their distribution and status in Texas. Records of these species will not be formally reviewed by the TBRC, but documentation is requested to assist in these studies. Clark's Grebe, Cory's Shearwater, Muscovy Duck, Common Black-Hawk, Swainson's Hawk (December-January), Aplomado Falcon (reintroduction program in progress), Semipalmated Sandpiper (December-January), Pomarine Jaeger, Parasitic Jaeger, Spotted Owl, Williamson's Sapsucker, Northern Shrike, Baird's Sparrow. Addendum to the 1990 report. The TBRC held its 1991 annual meeting at Austin on 23 February 1991. Among the decisions reached during this meeting was to change the criteria for a species to be fully accepted on the Texas state list. In order to be recognized as fully accepted on the list of Texas birds, a species must have at least one record supported by: (1) An extant specimen identified by a recognized authority together with convincing evidence that the specimen was obtained within the state of Texas or adjacent ocean (as defined in the Bylaws of the TBRC), or (2) one or more photographs or tape recordings that clearly demonstrate definitive characters with convincing evidence that the photograph or recording was made within the state of Texas or adjacent ocean. In addition to the above requirements the record must be reviewed and accepted by the TBRC. Red-necked Grebe and Bohemian Waxwing are two species that have previously been considered accepted in Texas, yet neither of these species can meet the above criteria. If anyone is aware of the existence and location of photos or specimens of these two species in Texas please contact the author. Records of species not meeting the above criteria yet having accepted sight records will be placed in a special "presumptive" list. The TBRC also added Red Phalarope to the Review List. More information on these and other subjects will be published in the 1991 TBRC report.