BIRDS of the UPPER CUMBERLAND REGION
Summer 2001 UCR Bird Report
(1 June–31 July)
Stephen J. Stedman
Department of English, Box 5053
Tennessee Technological University
Cookeville, TN 38505
"The time to save a species is while it
is still common." Rosalie Edge
Introduction
Although summer is probably no more important than the other three seasons of the year for the successful continuation of bird populations, it is arguably the most important in terms of monitoring those populations. Since population dynamics is a topic that concerns many persons who enjoy birds, I prepared the following report to summarize the status of bird populations in the Upper Cumberland Region (UCR) of Kentucky and Tennessee during the summer of 2001. It is intended as a supplement to seasonal reports published in North American Birds, The Kentucky Warbler, and The Migrant with emphasis on common breeding birds, sometimes unrepresented or underrepresented in reports published in those journals.
Temperature and rainfall were close to seasonal norms for the season, though the period from early to mid-June was cooler than the norm.
Several sources of data have been used to assess the status of summer populations of about 130 species of birds occurring in the Region either as breeders or as nonbreeders (i.e., summering subadults, early migrants, dispersing wanderers, etc.). Chief among these data sources is the Putnam County Summer Roadside Survey (SRS). This 500-stop survey was conducted in 1991, 1996, and 2001 over an identical set of stops, allowing comparison of data from three temporal periods spanning a decade. References to SRS data below include two numbers for each of the three years of the survey: the first number represents the number of stops (out of 500) on which a species was detected; the second number represents the total individuals detected. It is hard to say just how robust the Putnam Co. SRS data are, though it is safe to say that these data are more robust than any other dataset representing the UCR currently available. In the paragraphs below, I often refer to data from the SRS as though they represent the entire Region uniformly; however, I am aware that bird population data from one county are not necessarily an accurate measure of bird populations in nearby counties. The Putnam Co. SRS data are simply the best currently available data for assessing Regional bird populations, so I have tried to wring as much meaning from them as possible, perhaps more than I would if similar datasets were available for each county in the Region, but I do not expect to live long enough to see 26 such datasets collected in the Region in my lifetime, let alone in one year or even in a five-year period.
Another relevant, but shorter term, dataset derives from eight Regional Breeding Bird Surveys (BBS) totaling 400 stops conducted each year within the region; complete data from these federally supported BBSs were available for 1998-2000, but data from only seven of the eight BBSs were available as of September 2002, so the data for 2001 listed in the paragraphs below are parsimonious. Collectively, these BBS data are not especially robust, given that they represent a geographic area encompassing 26 counties, so considerable caution is needed when assessing bird populations using data extracted from them. For species that have a total of 20 or more individuals tallied per year, the data are possibly robust enough to warrant attention; for species that are not represented by a total of at least 20 individuals per year, the data are undoubtedly of lesser value.
Even smaller but still modestly useful datasets derive from a 100-stop BBS conducted within the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area (BSFNRRA), a 50-stop BBS conducted within the Obed Wild and Scenic River (OWSR), and a 47-stop BBS conducted within the southern end of the Daniel Boone National Forest (DBNF). The latter BBS includes two routes: the Little Lick BBS (23 stops), conducted in Pulaski Co., KY, and the Wolf Knob BBS (24 stops) located on the periphery of the Region, mainly in Whitley Co., KY (not a part of the UCR), but partly in McCreary Co., KY. Also, a walking survey at Frozen Head State Natural Area, Morgan Co., TN, provided some important data noted in the report below. Finally, anecdotal field data from a number of observers provided the background against which many species’ population status in the Region may be understood.
I’ll let readers inform themselves about birds with stable, increasing, or uncertain Regional populations by reading on, but for species that are certainly or probably undergoing population decreases let me offer a list as an additional means of focusing on their status (highlighted names indicate species with gravely decreasing Regional populations): Red-tailed Hawk, American Kestrel, Northern Bobwhite, Killdeer, Rock Dove, Chuck-will’s-widow, Chimney Swift, Red-cockaded Woodpecker, Eastern Kingbird, Loggerhead Shrike, Blue Jay, Northern Rough-winged Swallow, Tufted Titmouse, Brown Thrasher, Cerulean Warbler, and Common Grackle. Feel free to inspect the datasets and suggest alternative interpretations of the data for each species.
For most species the trend in Upper Cumberland is suggested, while the continental trend for breeding species (1966-1999) is parenthetically included. Continental trend data come from this source:
Pardieck, K. L., and J. R. Sauer. 2000. The 1995-1999
Summary of the North American
Breeding Bird Survey. Bird Populations 5: 30-48.
Acknowledgments: To my wife, who collected many of the Putnam Co. SRS data, as well as all data from the Obed Wild and Scenic River and the Little Lick BBS in Pulaski Co., KY, I am greatly indebted; Barb assisted in the analysis of the SRS date, and for that assistance I am also indebted. To the cited observers who provided records to me directly or indirectly (i.e., via messages sent out on the TN-Bird and BirdKy listservs) from their time afield this summer, I am also indebted. To the photographers whose images are incorporated below, I am also greatly indebted. Many thanks to all who helped make this report possible.
Abbreviations and Symbols: * = written or photographic documentation on file with SJS; BBS = Breeding Bird Survey; BSFNRRA = Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area; DBNF = Daniel Boone National Forest; SRS = Summer Roadside Survey; SNA = State Natural Area; UCR = Upper Cumberland Region.
Links to Datasets
Waterfowl through Herons
Canada Geese were noted at more stops on the 2001 Putnam Co. SRS than on the 1991 or 1996 SRSs, but fewer individuals (116) were counted during 2001 than during either of the other years, a puzzling result. A study to monitor the movements of Canada Geese was initiated in Putnam Co., TN, during 1998; it continued this summer, resulting in the capture of 670 geese, including 113 young of the year, 243 unmarked adults, and 314 previously marked (i.e., banded and collared) adults (DLC). Regionally, the number of sites at which this species breeds is increasing, and, presumably, the number of geese in the population is also increasing. Status: uncommon to common breeder; trend: probably increasing (Continental BBS trend: +11.1%/yr.).
Wood Ducks are poorly monitored by the BBS methodology. Putnam Co. SRS data (1991: 11, 17; 1996: 6, 6; 2001: 6, 14) do not reveal any alarming trend. Regional BBS may reflect a downturn in numbers, but these data are too few to be meaningful. A female with six half-grown young was present on Cordell Hull Lake, Jackson Co., TN, 24 July 2001 (SJS), a slightly later date than usual for half-grown young to be present. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: +6.0%/yr.).
Mallards are also poorly monitored by the BBSs. At least three broods were raised at Cane Creek Park in Putnam Co., TN, during the spring and summer (SJS). Status: uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: +1.6%/yr.).
The Regional Ruffed Grouse population is not well monitored during the breeding season by any method currently known to the author. For instance, the species has never been recorded on the 100-stop BBS in the BSFNRRA, where this grouse is fairly common, although this survey has been conducted the last eight years. Status: very uncommon to rare breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -1.2%/yr.).
Wild Turkeys showed up on the Putnam Co. SRS for the first time this year: (1991: 0, 0; 1996: 0, 0; 2001: 3, 4), indicating an increase in their population numbers in that area over the last half-decade. They were present in small but about average numbers on the BBS in the BSFNRRA. Status: uncommon breeder; trend; probably increasing (Continental BBS trend: +11.6%/yr.).
Northern Bobwhite numbers continued to decrease on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 148, 184; 1996: 99, 143; 2001: 83, 119), probably as a result of habitat loss, especially razing of roadside and agricultural hedgerows, and conversion of agricultural land to subdivisions. However, Regional BBSs (1998: 56; 1999: 64; 2000: 63; 2001: 85+) reflected a notable increase in numbers. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: decreasing in most urban and suburban areas but possibly stable elsewhere (Continental BBS trend: -2.8%/yr.).
The only Pied-billed Grebe reported Regionally stayed the season on the lake at Cane Creek Park, Putnam Co., TN (SJS et al.). Individuals of this species have summered previously at that site, but no evidence of breeding has been detected there. Elsewhere in the Region, notably on Cordell Hull Lake, breeding habitat for this species exists. Status: rare summerer but also possible breeder; trend: none (Continental BBS trend: +2%/yr.).
Evidence of Great Blue Heron breeding success in the Region was sparse. The only reports involved 7 young found on 5 of the 20 nests comprising a rookery on a small island in Center Hill Lake near Floating Mill Boat Ramp, DeKalb Co., TN, 13 Jul 2001 (SJS, CW photo, DW), and seven nests on an island in an articifial lake on Helms Bend Rd., Smith Co., TN, no date (TLC, VC). No data on production of young were available from other known rookeries in the Region in DeKalb, Morgan, and White counties, TN, and Clinton and Pulaski counties, KY. Data from the Putnam County SRS (1991: 5, 10; 1996: 11, 13; 2001: 9, 10) were only moderately variable for the three years when surveys took place. Regional BBS data were too few to be meaningful. Status: very uncommon to uncommon breeder; trend: increasing (Continental BBS trend: +2.6%/yr.).
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| Great Blue Heron rookery with several large young near Floating Mill Boat Ramp, Center Hill Lake, DeKalb Co., TN, 13 July 2001; photo Carol Williams. |
A lone Great Egret at Cane Creek Park in Putnam Co., TN, 14 Jul 2001 (WAW) provided the earliest Regional evidence this season of post-breeding dispersal of ardeids. Status: uncommon post-breeding wanderer; trend: none.
A Cattle Egret was near the Stone Farm, Celina, Clay Co., TN, 27 July 2001 (TMC), one of few Regional records of this expanding ardeid. Status: very rare post-breeding wanderer; trend: none.
The Regional Green Heron population is thinly but widely distributed near moist habitats of all sizes. The Putnam Co., TN, population appears nearly stable as indicated by data from the SRS (1991: 15, 21; 1996: 14, 17; 2001: 13, 15). Regional BBS data are too few to be meaningful. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: -0.9%/yr.).
Yellow-crowned Night-Herons are quite rare in the Region. This year reports came from Putnam Co., TN, where two were located 20 June 2001 during the SRS (BHS, SJS). One of these birds was registered at Burgess Falls SNA, where an adult had been noted 9 June 2001 (GKE) and where single adults were seen 24 June (SJS), 28 July (SJS), and 31 July (CW); the other was a flyby on Buck Mountain Rd. near Buck Lake Rd. (where, perhaps not coincidentally, a flyby was also registered during the 1991 SRS). Yellow-crowns have been present every year since at least 1987 at Burgess Falls SNA. The heron on Buck Mountain Rd. may have been breeding in a small rookery known to have been present during several previous years in Algood, Putnam Co., TN, but a check of that rookery site during late June produced no evidence of nests (SJS). Status: very rare breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: +0.5%/yr.).
Links to Datasets
New World Vultures through Raptors
Black Vulture breeding evidence is always in short supply, and this year was no exception. The species was unrecorded on the Putnam Co. SRS but present locally in small numbers. Status: uncommon to very uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: +2.7%/yr.).
Turkey Vulture breeding evidence is also perennially in short supply. This year TVs were recorded on the Putnam Co. SRS in lowish numbers (1991: 32, 40; 1996: 34, 51; 2001: 9, 13); no cause for the low number of registrations and individuals is known. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: +1.4%/yr.).
In the past, verified Osprey nesting in the Region has been almost nonexistent, so it is heartening to report a nest in Jackson Co., TN, that contained three large young and two attendant adults 22 Jul 2001 (AM, fide TMC); this nest was probably active the last two or three years also (AM, fide TMC). Another Osprey nest site was present in Jackson Co., TN, this season (AM, fide TMC), but no information about production of young was available for the second site. Single Ospreys in DeKalb Co., TN, 10 Jul 2001 (CW, DW) and in Clay Co., TN, 11 Jul 2001 (TMC) suggested local nesting. No news about the Osprey nest on the Obed River, Morgan Co., TN, arrived. Status: rare breeder; trend: increasing (Continental BBS trend: +6.7%/yr.).
Bald Eagle nests in the Region are few, being located mainly close to Dale Hollow, Cordell Hull, and Center Hill lakes. Information (fide TE) about Regional eagle nests follows: two young fledged from a nest in Jackson Co, TN; nests in DeKalb and Pickett counties, TN, were active during the season but no details about production of young were available; a nest in Smith Co., TN, and a second nest in DeKalb Co., TN, were of uncertain status during the season; a nest in Clay Co., TN was not active. Status: rare breeder; trend: increasing (Continental BBS trend: +7.7%/yr.).
During the Putnam Co. SRS a single Sharp-shinned Hawk was registered 1 June 2001 at a point near Buffalo Valley in the extreme western end of the county (SJS). Though the species was unrecorded on Putnam Co. SRSs during 1991 and 1996, a small population is known to breed on the Cumberland Plateau in the extreme eastern sector of the county, but breeding elsewhere in the county, especially at low elevations in the western end, has not been established. The only other evidence of this species’ presence in the Region this season was provided by two calling birds near Barnes Hollow, Putnam Co., TN, 1 July 2001 (RWS) though it undoubtedly breeds in most counties on the Cumberland Plateau. In particular no evidence of its presence was detected in the BSFNRRA, where its breeding success may have been affected by loss of many conifers resulting from the large outbreak of southern pine beetles. Status: rare breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: +3.3%/yr.).
The population of Cooper's Hawk in the Region is monitored rather poorly by the BBS method. Putnam Co. SRS data (1991: 1, 1; 1996: 3, 3; 2001: 1, 1) are too few to allow for any conclusions to be reached, and the Regional BBS data are also few. No active nests were reported though a male was reported at nest used in 1999 and 2000 in Putnam Co., TN (WAW), but no female was seen at this nest. Status: very uncommon to perhaps uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain, but probably increasing (Continental BBS trend: +5.4%/yr.).
Red-shouldered Hawk data from the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 4, 5; 1996: 6, 6; 2001: 9, 10) show a slight upward trend, while Regional BBS data are few but possibly reflect a stable population. No nests were reported with the exception of one in Cookeville, Putnam Co., TN, that was abandoned early in the nesting cycle (WAW). Status: uncommon breeder; trend: stable or possibly increasing slightly (Continental BBS trend: +2.5%/yr.).
Broad-winged Hawks are often very quiet during June and July in the thick deciduous forest they prefer for breeding, so data about their presence is often skimpy. Putnam Co. SRS data (1991: 4, 4; 1996: 11, 11; 2001: 3, 3) are hard to interpret, and Regional BBS data are much too few to allow judgments to be made. No nests were reported. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: +1.0%/yr.).
The Regional Red-tailed Hawk population is probably larger than the populations of either of the two previously discussed Buteos, but it is still not large enough to generate meaningful data on the Regional BBSs. Putnam Co. SRS data (1991: 14, 17; 1996: 12, 14; 2001: 7, 7) reveal a declining population, but the data are too few for this decline to be more than a modest probability. Status: uncommon to fairly common breeder; trend: uncertain but possibly declining locally (Continental BBS trend: +3.0%/yr.).
One young Golden Eagle fledged from a nest in Jackson Co., TN, this season (fide TE). The same nest fledged one young in 2000, one young in 1996, one young in 1994, and two young in 1993; the nest was not active in 1997, 1998, and 1999; activity in 1995 was uncertain. This nest site may be the only fully validated one for Golden Eagles in the eastern United States ever. Status: extremely rare breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: +1.5%/yr.)
American Kestrels are the most abundant breeding raptor in most counties of the Region. Regional BBS data (1998: 20; 1999: 15; 2000: 26; 2001: 16+) reveal no trend, but a slight downward trend is suggested by Putnam Co. SRS data (1991: 20, 33: 1996: 21, 21; 2001: 13, 19). Status: fairly common breeder; trend: slightly decreasing (Continental BBS trend: 0.0%/yr.).
Links to Datasets
Shorebirds through Terns
Numbers of Killdeers decreased on the 2001 Putnam Co. SRS (35, 56) from numbers detected in 1996 (67, 105) but were only a bit lower than numbers detected in 1991 (42, 52); numbers on Regional BBSs (1998: 53; 1999; 41; 2000: 41; 2001: 35+) probably decreased a bit. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: probably slightly decreasing (Continental BBS trend: -0.3%/yr.).
Ten not-so-solitary Solitary Sandpipers were counted at the Swafford Pond in Bledsoe Co., TN, 28 July 2001 (BJ, JC, JN) and represented the first "fall" migrants. Status: uncommon migrant; trend: none.
The first southbound Spotted Sandpiper was noted along the Rockcastle River in southeastern Pulaski Co., KY, 15 July 2001 (CN, WN, RMD, SJS); another was at Cane Creek Park in Putnam Co., TN, 16 July 2001 (SJS). Status: uncommon migrant; trend: none.
A Least Sandpiper at Mt. Zion, Pulaski Co., KY, 18 July 2001 (RMD) was the first of the "fall." Status: uncommon migrant; trend: none.
American Woodcocks were registered on the Putnam Co. SRS for the first time during the 2001 survey (1991: 0, 0; 1996: 0, 0; 2001: 2, 3). No other evidence of the species’ Regional presence came to my attention. Status: rare to very uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -2.2%/yr.).
A Forster’s Tern was present at Cane Creek Park in Putnam Co., TN, 28-29 July 2001 (DC, SJS); the first date of its stay was only four days later than the early "fall" date for the species; this occurrence, only the third fall record in the county, is also the only fall record in the county involving a stay of more than one day. Status: rare migrant; trend: none.
Two Black Terns were at the Swafford Pond in Bledsoe Co., TN, 28 July 2001 (BJ, JC, JN). Status: rare migrant; trend: none.
Links to Datasets
Pigeons through Kingfisher
Rock Pigeons tend to be concentrated in urban areas throughout the Region. Numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 30; 1999: 14; 2000: 16; 2001: 5+) were down, while numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 5, 33; 1996: 17, 63; 2001: 9, 65) were nearly identical to numbers on the 1996 SRS and up from numbers on the 1991 SRS. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain but possibly declining (Continental BBS trend: +0.1%/yr.).
Mourning Dove numbers on the 2001 Putnam Co. SRS (255, 632) were down from numbers on the 1996 SRS (309, 828) but up slightly from numbers on the 1991 SRS (236, 516); numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 209; 1999: 217; 2000: 234; 2001: 236+) show an increasing trend. Status: common to abundant breeder; trend: stable (Continental BBS trend: -0.3%/yr.).
Black-billed Cuckoos show up occasionally in the Region during summer, especially from sites at higher elevations, but no reports were forthcoming this year. Status: rare breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -2.0%/yr.).
Regional survey results for Yellow-billed Cuckoos were mixed. A notable decrease was reflected by Putnam Co. SRS data (1991: 79, 81; 1996: 74, 77; 2001: 24, 24), but the number (31) counted on the 2001 BBSs in the BSFNRRA was higher than any number registered from 1997 to 2000, while numbers noted on Regional BBSs in 2001 were about the same as the average number for those BBSs 1998-2000. This species’ population size varies considerably from year to year and seems also to vary considerably from location to location during any given year. This variability probably reflects the species’ response to variations in the availability of its favorite prey--hairy caterpillars; the availability of these caterpillars in turn probably varies in response to variations in key environmental factors affecting the populations of those insects. It will be interesting someday to see if gypsy moth survey data (or data from surveys for any other moths or for butterflies with a hairy caterpillar stage) can be correlated with BBS cuckoo data. Status: uncommon but erratic breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -1.8%/yr.).
Barn Owl breeding evidence in the Region is scarce. The only report came from Putnam Co., TN, where an adult and two young were still present 8 June 2001 at the nest site (SJS) discussed in the Spring 2001 UCR bird report. Status: rare breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -2.0%/yr.).
In most years the population of Eastern Screech-Owls in the Region is poorly monitored. However, every five years the Putnam Co. SRS provides reasonably robust data about the species’ population. This year SRS data (1991: 20, 23; 1996: 26, 30; 2001: 23, 25; note: these data derive from 100-stop night survey) revealed that the county screech-owl population was fairly stable. Screech-owls were not detected on the night survey in the BSFNRRA. Status: uncommon to fairly common breeder; trend: stable (Continental BBS trend: +3.2%/yr.).
Great Horned Owl populations are also poorly monitored, and data from the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 2, 2; 1996: 3, 3; 2001: 4, 5; note: these data derive from 100-stop night survey) are insufficient to offer much commentary about its status. Horned owls were not detected on the night survey in the BSFNRRA. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: +0.1%/yr.).
Barred Owl populations are almost as poorly monitored in the Region as those of the preceding species. The Putnam Co. SRS results (1991: 6, 6; 1996: 5, 5; 2001: 6, 7; note: these data derive from 100-stop night survey) suggest the population is stable; these results are buttressed by results from the night survey run in the BSFNRRA, where data from a 30-stop survey in 2001 (5 stops, 7 individuals) reflect good numbers compared to those for 1997-2000. Status: uncommon to fairly common breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: +2.9%/yr.).
Data about the Regional population of Common Nighthawks from any source are few to nonexistent, an unfortunate circumstance given an apparent decline in numbers this nightjar is experiencing in Putnam Co., TN. Status: very uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -1.6%/yr.).
Chuck-will's-widow numbers on the 100-stop night survey that was part of the Putnam Co. SRS in 2001 (12, 17) were below numbers detected in 1996 (20, 25) but slightly above those detected in 1991 (10, 15). This goatsucker was not detected on night surveys in BSFNRRA--but not expected there either. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: probably slightly decreasing, especially around urban and suburban areas (Continental BBS trend: -1.6%/yr.).
Eastern Whip-poor-will numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 8, 15; 1996: 12, 13; 2001: 10, 10) suggest a moderately stable or barely declining population. Numbers (28 stops, 59 individuals) on the 30-stop night survey conducted during 2001 in the BSFNRRA were higher than numbers for 1997-2000, but this increase could have resulted from excellent survey conditions during 2001 rather than from an increase in the species’ population in the BSFNRRA. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: fairly stable (Continental BBS trend: -1.9%/yr.).
Chimney Swifts on the Regional BBSs (1998: 141; 1999: 92; 2000: 128; 2001: 57+) showed a short-term fluctuating decline, while the longer term data from the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 132, 237; 1996: 101, 174; 2001: 75, 135) reflect a steady decline, a worrisome result. Status: uncommon to fairly common breeder; trend: decreasing (Continental BBS trend: -1.3%/yr.).
Ruby-throated Hummingbird numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 17, 17; 1996: 16, 17; 2001: 16, 17) were absolutely stable, while numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 9; 1999: 10; 2000: 10; 2001: 18+) reflected an increase in the last year (but the data are too few to be trusted much). Status: uncommon breeder; trend: stable or possibly increasing (Continental BBS trend: +2.5%/yr.).
Belted Kingfishers increased notably on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 7, 8; 1996: 9, 9; 2001: 16, 16); numbers on the Regional BBSs are too few to be meaningful. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: probably increasing (Continental BBS trend: -1.7%/yr.).
Links to Datasets
Woodpeckers through Crow
Red-headed Woodpeckers are the least common of all Regional woodpeckers, with the exception of Red-cockaded Woodpecker (see below). Numbers on the 2001 Putnam Co. SRS (7, 9) were about comparable to numbers on the 1991 SRS (7, 7) but down from numbers on the 1996 SRS (12, 14). This woodpecker undergoes erratic fluctuations in population numbers at most places where it breeds, so Regional monitoring efforts may never result in useful information about trends in its population. Status: uncommon but erratic breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -2.5%/yr.).
Red-bellied Woodpeckers have undergone a slow increase in numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 113, 129; 1996: 120, 134; 2001: 127, 152). On the Regional BBSs (1998: 73; 1999: 86; 2000: 69; 2001: 86+) numbers have been somewhat erratic. Status: fairly common breeder; trend: possibly increasing (Continental BBS trend: +0.6%/yr.).
Numbers of Downy Woodpeckers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 61, 66; 1996: 50, 59; 2001: 73, 96) have fluctuated somewhat but have increased recently. Numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 19; 1999: 28; 2000: 31; 2001: 22+) probably decreased in 2001 but are above 1998 numbers. Numbers on the BBS in the BSFNRRA increased in 2001, perhaps a consequence of the infestation of southern pine beetles. Status: uncommon to fairly common breeder; trend: uncertain but probably stable (Continental BBS trend: -0.2%/yr.).
The Regional population of Hairy Woodpecker is always smaller than the population of the foregoing species. Although the ratio of Hairies to Downies on BBSs changes a bit from year to year, the actual ratio is probably close to the average ratio on the BBSs. Numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 5; 1999: 9; 2000: 4; 2001: 10+) have been erratic and too few to be helpful in any event, while numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 6, 7; 1996: 11, 12; 2001: 11, 14) reflect a slight positive trend. Numbers on the BBS in the BSFNRRA increased in 2001, perhaps a consequence of the infestation of southern pine beetles. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain but probably stable (Continental BBS trend: +1.4%/yr.).
At least one Red-cockaded Woodpecker, a second-year male, remained at a former colony site in southeastern McCreary Co., KY, during the season, the sole survivor of the southern pine beetle-initiated translocation effort that resulted in the removal of two other McCreary Co. woodpeckers to Arkansas last spring (LP); the translocated birds, by the way, reproduced successfully during 2001 in their new home in the Ouachita National Forest. No roost cavity has yet been located for the remaining male, but, if found, an effort could be made to translocate it to a new site in Arkansas or South Carolina, or it might live out its days alone in what is left of the DBNF pines. Status: nearly extirpated local breeder; trend: strongly decreasing (Continental BBS trend: -3.0%/yr.).
Northern Flicker numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 68, 73; 1996: 60, 67; 2001: 26, 33) plummeted alarmingly, while numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 13; 1999: 12; 2000: 15; 2001: 15+) were stable or slightly increasing but too low to be especially meaningful. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain but possibly decreasing locally (National BBS trend: -2.2%/yr.).
Pileated Woodpeckers remain fairly plentiful in most Regional counties. Numbers on the Regional BBSs (1991: 26; 1999: 23; 2000: 24; 2001: 24+) were very stable, as were numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 36, 39; 1996: 39, 44; 2001: 37, 44). Numbers on the BBS in the BSFNRRA slightly increased in 2001, perhaps a consequence of the infestation of southern pine beetles. Status: uncommon to fairly common breeder; trend: stable (Continental BBS trend: +1.4%/yr.).
Eastern Wood-Pewees on the Putnam Co. SRS in 2001 (104, 104) were well down from numbers detected in 1996 (150, 163) but about comparable to numbers detected in 1991 (100, 111). Such fluctuation in numbers seems odd but may be a quite normal part of the species’ population dynamics. Lesser, but still prominent, fluctuations in numbers of pewees have been registered on Regional BBSs in recent years (1998: 76; 1999: 60; 2000: 86; 2001: 54+). Status: fairly common breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: -1.7%/yr.).
The Acadian Flycatcher, an Empidonax favoring moist, fairly mature deciduous forests, increased slightly on Regional BBSs (1998: 31; 1999: 23; 2000: 27; 2001: 33+) and declined very slightly on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 77, 109; 1996: 77, 125; 2001: 73, 111). Status: fairly common breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: +0.3%/yr.).
Willow Flycatchers are extremely scarce Regional breeders, favoring scrubby, often moist, sites. This year one bird continued singing at Cane Creek Park, Putnam Co., TN, until at least 26 June 2001 (SJS); this site also hosted singing birds in 1999 and 2000. In Morgan Co., TN, a site at a pond near the intersection of Rt. 62 and the road to Frozen Head SNA hosted at least one singing bird 12 June 2001 (SJS); this site has been occupied every summer since at least 1994. No other reports came to my attention for this season. Status: rare breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -0.1%/yr.; note: national trend includes data for Alder Flycatcher).
The Least Flycatcher, another extremely scarce Empidonax in the Region, has been noted near old orchards and in open mature deciduous forest in several counties, including Jackson, Putnam, and Scott counties, TN, during the past two decades. This year, no observations were reported. Status: rare breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -1.0%/yr.).
Among the factors influencing the breeding population of Eastern Phoebes is the severity of weather experienced during the winter prior to each breeding season. Last winter’s somewhat "normal" cold weather does not appear to have negatively affected the phoebe, a cold-sensitive species, if Putnam Co. SRS data (1991: 57, 65; 1996: 34, 36; 2001: 59, 62) are reliable, but clearly something, probably cold weather, affected its numbers in 1996. Data from Regional BBSs (1998: 52; 1999: 48; 2000: 72; 2001: 45+) indicate no great cause for concern about this species’ population. Status: fairly common breeder; trend: not applicable (Continental BBS trend: +1.0%/yr.).
The Regional population of Great Crested Flycatchers is mainly limited by availability of nesting cavities suitable for its needs. To judge from Putnam Co. SRS data (1991: 31, 35; 1996: 56, 73; 2001: 60, 74), the population is increasing in that county. Regional BBS data (1998: 28; 1999: 27; 2000: 24; 2001: 27+) reflect a quite stable population over the last few years. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: stable (Continental BBS trend: 0.0%/yr.).
Eastern Kingbirds require open habitats with suitable perches for making forays to capture insects; this flycatcher adapts well to some human-modified habitats. Numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 74, 93; 1996: 74, 95; 2001: 65, 89) decreased just a bit, while numbers on the 2001 Regional BBSs (1998: 29; 1999: 46; 2000: 42; 2001: 31+) were fairly similar to numbers for BBSs during 1998 but a bit lower than numbers on BBS during 1999 and 2000. Status: fairly common breeder; trend: slightly decreasing (Continental BBS trend: -0.8%/yr.).
A Scissor-tailed Flycatcher on Nash Rd. in southwestern Putnam Co., TN, 8 June 2001 (BHS*) at a point on the Putnam Co. SRS provided the first documented county record of this spectacular species. No additional sightings occurred at this site, so the status of the bird is hard to determine. Status: uncertain; trend: none (Continental BBS trend: +0.1%/yr.).
Loggerhead Shrikes continue a precipitous population decrease in many, if not all, counties of the Region. Data from the Putnam Co. SRS reflect this decline most starkly (1991: 9, 15; 1996: 2, 2; 2001: 0, 0) and are virtually isomorphic with data from the Putnam Co. Winter Roadside Survey (1991: 16, 17; 1996: 2, 3; 2001: 0, 0). The species is still present in Putnam County in small numbers, but its population level has apparently fallen below the density threshold required to generate registrations on a 500-stop survey in a 408-square-mile county, not a good sign. Observers in the Upper Cumberland are encouraged to document and report ALL Regional shrike sightings at ANY season. One shrike was present in extreme southwestern Putnam Co., TN, 8 June 2001 (BHS). Status: rare breeder; trend: strongly decreasing (Continental BBS trend: -3.6%/yr.).
White-eyed Vireos increased notably on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 83, 96; 1996: 84, 105; 2001: 121, 161), but no increase was evident on the Regional BBSs (1998: 77; 1999: 95; 2000: 69; 2001: 79+) or on BBSs at any of the more localized sites (i.e., BSFNRRA, DBNR, and OWSR). Status: fairly common breeder; trend: stable or possibly increasing (Continental BBS trend: 0.0%/yr.).
Yellow-throated Vireos also increased on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 36, 41; 1996: 40, 41; 2001: 53, 59) but not on Regional BBSs (1998: 26; 1999: 42; 2000: 53; 2001: 36+) or at other sites where BBSs were conducted. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: stable or possibly slightly increasing (Continental BBS trend: +0.9%/yr.).
In recent years the Blue-headed Vireo has shown occasional signs of being an expanding species on the Cumberland Plateau, with the expansion mainly indicated by colonization of new breeding sites, often at fairly low elevations, but occasionally by increases in local population numbers. Data from the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 0, 0; 1996: 2, 2; 2001: 2, 2) reflected neither of these signs of expansion, nor did data from the Regional BBSs or data from BBSs in the BSFNRRA and in the DBNF. However, BBS data from the OWSR (1998: 12, 14; 1999: 22, 30; 2000: 18, 22; 2001: 27, 40; data derive from a 50-stop BBS) revealed a fairly positive trend and also indicated that this site hosts one of the densest Regional populations of Blue-heads. Three Blue-heads were noted 4 June 2001 in the vicinity of the Little Lick Campground, Daniel Boone N. F., Pulaski Co., KY (BHS), and a singing Blue-head was noted a few miles away in southeastern Pulaski Co., KY, 15 Jul 2001 (SJS, RMD, CN, WN) at an elevation of about 1000 feet on the rim of the gorge of the Rockcastle River. Status: uncommon breeder on Cumberland Plateau and in Cumberland Mountains; trend: stable or possibly increasing (Continental BBS trend: +4.8%/yr.).
Warbling Vireos are rare in the Region, and no reports of them were received this season from any Regional site. Status: rare breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: +1.2%/yr.).
The Red-eyed Vireo easily retained its status as the most abundant bird of forested sectors in the Region. Its population numbers were fairly stable on Regional BBSs (1998: 271; 1999: 259; 2000: 270; 2001: 232+) and on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 241, 427; 1996: 274, 558; 2001: 286, 548), as well as within the DBNF, BSFNRRA, and OWSR. Status: abundant; trend: stable (National BBS trend: +1.2%/yr.).
Blue Jay data on the Regional BBSs (1998: 94; 1999: 81; 2000: 58; 2001: 62+) suggest a slight downward trend, as do data from the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 198, 296; 1996: 239, 406; 2001: 166, 268). Status: fairly common breeder; trend: probably slightly decreasing (Continental BBS trend: -1.2%/yr.).
American Crow numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 375; 1999: 386; 2000: 370; 2001: 305+) were probably down a bit, but they were stable on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 242, 375; 1996: 266, 468; 2001: 263, 499). Status: common to abundant breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: +1.0%/yr.).
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Lark through Waxwing
Like many grassland obligates in the Region, Horned Larks are probably undergoing population decline, but data about their population numbers are few and far between. They are rarely encountered on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 2, 2; 1996: 3, 4; 2001: 2, 4) or on the Regional BBSs (1998: 0; 1999: 2; 2000: 0; 2001: 0). Status: rare to very uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain but probably declining (Continental BBS trend: -1.8%/yr.).
Purple Martin numbers were fairly stable on the Regional BBSs (1998: 42; 1999: 48; 2000: 65; 2001: 45+) but slightly down on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 44, 98; 1996: 50, 146; 2001: 28, 111). Status: uncommon to fairly common breeder; trend: stable or slightly decreasing (Continental BBS trend: +0.9%/yr.).
Tree Swallows continue to show signs of increasing their breeding presence in the Region. Putnam Co. SRS data (1991: 2, 2; 1996: 3, 6; 2001: 7, 14) reflect a small but increasing population, and breeding pairs were noted at four sites in the county. At least two were present a few miles east of Cumberland Mountain State Park in Cumberland Co., TN, 23 June 2001 (CS, JD, SJS). Two nests were noted at the National Fish Hatchery in Celina, Clay Co., TN (TMC), and breeding was confirmed in Pulaski Co., KY (CN, WN). Status: very uncommon breeder; trend: probably increasing (Continental BBS trend: +0.5%/yr.).
Northern Rough-winged Swallow population numbers were down in many areas. Putnam Co. SRS data (1991: 13, 30; 1996: 29, 53; 2001: 13, 23) indicate a decline from five, but not ten, years ago, while Regional BBS numbers for 2001 were well down from those during 1998-2000. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: possibly decreasing (Continental BBS trend: +0.3%/yr.).
No information about the breeding success of the small colony of Bank Swallows on Dale Hollow Lake in northern Pickett Co., TN, was available; this breeding colony is the only one known in the Region. Status: very rare breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -1.2%/yr.).
Cliff Swallows appear to be expanding both in population size and in number and/or size of breeding colonies within the Region. Putnam Co. SRS data (1991: 1, 2; 1996: 0, 0; 2001: 4, 49) reflect an small increase in abundance. Also, following the discovery of a second county breeding colony, on Spring Fork Rd., last spring came the discovery of a third county breeding colony, on Martin Creek Rd., during the SRS. Additionally, many long-standing breeding colonies, such as the one in Granville, Jackson Co., TN, around the Region appear to have had more breeding pairs this summer than in most recent summers. All in all, this swallow’s Regional breeding population seems headed in a positive direction. Field observers are urged to report all colonies, including number of adults present, anywhere in the Region. Status: uncommon to fairly common breeder; trend: increasing (Continental BBS trend: +1.2%/yr.).
Barn Swallow numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 172; 1999: 187: 2000: 181; 2001: 161+) were fairly stable, as were numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS: (1991: 105, 264; 1996: 122, 346; 2001: 103, 334). Status: common breeder; trend: stable (Continental BBS trend: -0.6%/yr.).
Carolina Chickadees were up slightly in numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 112, 164; 1996: 118, 197; 2001: 127, 201); numbers on the 2001 Regional BBS (76+) were up from 1999 (61) and 2000 (59) but below numbers for 1998 (103). Status: fairly common breeder; trend: stable or possibly slightly increasing (Continental BBS trend: -0.9%/yr.).
Tufted Titmouse population numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 167; 1999: 147; 2000: 128; 2001: 111+) appear to be trending negatively, while numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 221, 287; 1996: 225, 337; 2001: 187, 275) were slightly down, as were numbers in the OWSR but not numbers in the BSFNRRA. Status: fairly common to common breeder: trend: probably slightly decreasing (Continental BBS trend: +1.0%/yr.).
A Red-breasted Nuthatch in Putnam Co., TN, 11 July 2001 (RWS) was unprecedentedly early for the county and suggests at least the possibility of local breeding. Status: winter resident and possibly rare breeder; trend: none (Continental BBS trend: +1.6%/yr.)
White-breasted Nuthatch numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 29; 1999: 33; 2000: 52; 2001: 34+) have been relatively stable, while numbers of the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 75, 90; 1996: 44, 51; 2001: 56, 81) have fluctuated somewhat and possibly reflect a downward trend. Status: uncommon to fairly common breeder; trend: stable or possibly slightly decreasing (Continental BBS trend: +2.0%/yr.).
Carolina Wrens exhibit sensitivity to cold weather, so the species’ population numbers tend to fluctuate in synchrony with average winter temperature. Data from the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 254, 314; 1996: 156, 177; 2001: 227, 309) reflect such fluctuation. Data from the Regional BBSs (1998: 181; 1999: 206; 2000: 219; 2001: 158+) reveal higher numbers for 1998-2000, following warm winters, than for 2001, following a normally cold winter. Status: common breeder: trend: not applicable (Continental BBS trend: +1.0%/yr.).
House Wren population density varies considerably across the Region. Since most of the population is concentrated in and around towns and villages, the vast majority of the Region is devoid of this songster, which increased notably in numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 17, 20; 1996: 17, 21; 2001: 27, 35) and nested in a suburban yard near City Lake Natural Area, Putnam Co., TN, for only the second time during the past 13 breeding seasons (BHS, SJS). Numbers on Regional BBSs reflected no noteworthy trend, but they are too few to mean much. Status: very uncommon to uncommon breeder; trend: increasing (Continental BBS trend: +1.2%/yr.).
Blue-gray Gnatcatcher numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 102; 1999: 123; 2000: 120; 2001: 101+) remained fairly stable, while numbers on the 2001 Putnam Co. SRS (86, 112) were above those on the 1991 SRS (74, 91) but well below those recorded in 1996 (132, 167). Status: fairly common breeder; trend: probably fairly stable (Continental BBS trend: +0.7%/yr.).
Like Eastern Phoebes and Carolina Wrens, Eastern Bluebirds are a cold-sensitive species whose population numbers often correlate inversely with the severity of winter weather. Numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 97; 1999: 86; 2000: 127; 2001: 96+) and the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 164, 285; 1996: 223, 467; 2001: 163, 327) reflect a large population. Status: common breeder; trend: not applicable (Continental BBS trend: +2.6%/yr.).
The Veery breeds at only one known Regional location, the upper elevations (c. 2800-3300 feet) of Frozen Head SNA in Morgan Co., TN. This year the only report from that site involved six Veeries detected 3 June 2001 (SJS) during a walking survey. Two new breeding populations of this species were found this year at sites with similar elevation in the Cumberland Mountains of adjacent Anderson (Patterson Mountain) and Campbell Redoak Mountain) counties, TN (CPN; Knight 2001e), just east of the UCR, so it is possible that other breeding locations of this fine songster may exist at sites with similar elevations within the UCR. Status: rare local breeder; trend: stable (Continental BBS trend: -1.2%/yr.).
Wood Thrush populations in many parts of North America have been declining. Numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 83; 1999: 75: 2000: 69; 2001: 54+) reflect the continental trend, but numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 99, 129; 1996: 99, 142; 2001: 114, 156) do not. Numbers on the BBS in the BSFNRRA are trending negatively, while numbers on the BBS in the OWSR are trending positively. Status: fairly common breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -1.9%/yr.).
American Robins adapt well to many human modifications of the environment, so it was unexpected to see a decrease in numbers on the latest Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 208, 393; 1996: 287, 768; 2001: 158, 363), a decrease that was somewhat mirrored by numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 214; 1999: 172; 2000: 209; 2001: 141+). Robins are largely absent from areas with continuous forest, so low numbers recorded on BBSs in the BSFNRRA and OWSR were quite expected. Status: common breeder; trend: possibly slightly decreasing over the short term (Continental BBS trend: +0.8%/yr.).
Gray Catbird numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 19; 1999: 23; 2000: 23; 2001: 15+) are fairly stable but too low to be a reliable index of the species’ population; numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 31, 38; 1996: 31, 34; 2001: 18, 20) declined considerably in 2001. Few are detected on other Regional surveys. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain but probably decreasing (Continental BBS trend: -0.3%/yr.).
The state bird of Tennessee is doing well in the UCR. Northern Mockingbird numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 64; 1999: 74; 2000: 82; 2001: 66+) have remained fairly stable in recent years, while numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 138, 183; 1996: 164, 236; 2001: 136, 226) have fluctuated a bit over the decade during with that survey has taken place, but the numbers show no evidence of a decline. Like robins, mockingbirds avoid continuous forest, so they are largely unrecorded on BBSs conducted in the DBNF, in the OWSR, and in the BSFNRRA. Status: common breeder; trend: stable (Continental BBS trend: -0.8%/yr.).
Brown Thrasher numbers decreased sharply from 1998 numbers in recent years on the Regional BBSs (1998: 58; 1999: 36; 2000: 32; 2001: 35+) and then stabilized, while its numbers have fluctuated a bit on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 54, 66; 1996: 90, 106; 2001: 61, 84). Status: uncommon to fairly common breeder; trend: probably slightly decreasing (Continental BBS trend: -1.2%/yr.).
The European Starling is the most abundant breeding species in the UCR, though its population density decreases considerably in areas with continuous forest. Numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 473; 1999: 343; 2000: 465; 2001: 459+) and Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 177, 970; 1996: 246, 1839; 2001: 170, 2135) show no signs of decreasing. Status: abundant breeder; trend: stable or possibly slightly increasing (Continental BBS trend: -0.9%/yr.).
Cedar Waxwings are somewhat erratic but possibly increasing breeders in the UCR. The Regional BBSs (1998: 32; 1999: 48; 2000: 87; 2001: 31) reflect the species’ pattern of erratic numbers, as do data from the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 4, 9; 1996: 31, 67; 2001: 9, 20). Waxwings were noted at Barnes Hollow, Putnam Co, TN, several times in late June and July (RWS), when nesting was suspected. Status: uncommon but erratic breeder; trend: not applicable (Continental BBS trend: +1.5%/yr.).
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Warblers
Blue-winged Warblers nest infrequently or not at all on the Cumberland Plateau, but they may be found west of the plateau on the Highland Rim and in the Central Basin in moderate numbers and east of the plateau in the Ridge and Valley Region in low numbers. Numbers were stable on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 2, 2; 1996: 12, 12; 2001: 12, 12). Too few are recorded on Regional BBSs to provide meaningful data. Status: very uncommon to uncommon local breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: 0.0%/yr.).
Golden-winged Warblers are thinly distributed in Cumberland, Morgan, Scott, and White counties, TN, and probably in a few adjacent counties on the plateau, but they are not found much elsewhere in the Region. Monitoring efforts on behalf of this declining songbird were stepped up this year (MW), but even more effort needs to be expended to determine the distribution and density of the species’ population in the Region. Status: rare breeder; trend: uncertain but probably decreasing (Continental BBS trend: -2.1%/yr.).
Northern Parulas are on the increase in Putnam Co., TN, as reflected by SRS data (1991: 25, 30; 1996: 37, 40; 2001: 42, 49) and do not seem in decline anywhere in the Region that monitoring efforts are being made except perhaps in the BSFNRRA, where data are few. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: stable (Continental BBS trend: +0.8%/yr.).
Yellow Warblers have maintained a moderately stable population in Putnam Co., TN, during the past decade (1991: 15, 19; 1996: 24, 28; 2001: 19, 21), but data from any other source are too few to allow for the drawing of conclusions. Status: uncommon to very uncommon breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: +0.3%/yr.).
Chestnut-sided Warblers, rare breeders in the UCR, have nested on Hinch Mountain (elevation c. 3000 feet) in Cumberland Co., TN, for many years; this year four singing birds and a nonsinger were found there 23 June 2001 (CS, JD, SJS). In addition, two singing birds were noted on nearby Black Mountain (elevation c. 2800 feet) in Cumberland Co., TN, on the same date (SJS, JD, CS, MZ). A single singing Chestnut-sided Warbler was found in McCreary Co., KY, during a BBS in the BSFNRRA 11 June 2001 (SJS); the bird was actually in the DBNF adjacent to the BSFNRRA at an elevation of c. 1800 feet. A singing bird was noted 6 June 2001 near the Leatherwood Overlook in Scott Co., TN (SJS), providing a first summer record of the species in the Tennessee portion of the BSFNRRA, but that bird could not be relocated on two subsequent visits to the site. For the first time since 1994, no Chestnut-sided Warbler was recorded on the Wolf Knob BBS in the Daniel Boone N. F., Whitley and McCreary counties, KY (SJS), and no reports came from Frozen Head SNA, Morgan Co., TN, where it is also usually present. Status: rare local breeder; trend; uncertain but possibly increasing (Continental BBS trend: -0.7%/yr.).
Black-throated Blue Warblers are regularly present during summer in Morgan Co., TN, at the higher elevations of Frozen Head SNA, the only known breeding site of this handsome warbler within the UCR. This year eight, including a very agitated pair along the North Old Mac Trail, were found during a 4-hour, 10-mile walking survey 3 June 2001 (SJS), representing a few more than usually noted during this survey. Status: very rare local breeder; trend: stable (Continental BBS trend: +1.1%/yr.).
Black-throated Green Warblers vary in population density across the Region considerably, being present mainly on the Cumberland Plateau and in the Cumberland Mountains and being largely absent elsewhere. This parulid’s population is generally most dense in the white pine and hemlock dominated river gorges dissecting the plateau such as those of the Big South Fork, the Obed River, and the Rockcastle River, but fairly dense populations are also present in deciduous forests on the slopes of the Cumberland Mountains such as those found at Frozen Head SNA in Morgan Co., TN. The populations in the BSFNRRA and OWSR showed no signs of decline in 2001, but monitoring in the future is needed to see if the loss of many white pines from southern pine beetle infestations will have an effect on them. Black-throated Greens were not recorded on the Putnam Co. SRS although a thinly distributed population is present on the Cumberland Plateau in eastern Putnam Co. Few are recorded on Regional BBSs, only one of which--the Monticello BBS--is located on the plateau and only two of which--the Oliver Springs and Smoky Junction BBSs--are near the Cumberland Mountains. Status: very uncommon to fairly common breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: 0.0%/yr.).
Yellow-throated Warblers were stable on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 16, 17; 1996: 24, 25; 2001: 23, 24) and down only slightly on Regional BBSs. The most dense Regional population of this warbler occurs in Morgan Co., TN, as reflected by numbers recorded on the Oliver Springs BBS. The population in the BSFNRRA was apparently little affected by recent loss of many evergreens following an infestation of southern pine beetles. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: +0.9%/yr.).
The Pine Warbler population in the BSFNRRA was also largely unaffected by beetle damage to evergreens this year, but it will be worth watching the population in the future to see if a long-term decline ensues. Like the BSFNRRA, Putnam Co., TN, suffered the loss of many pines due to beetle damage, but little effect on the Pine Warbler population in the county was reflected by numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 11, 13; 1996: 15, 18; 2001: 16, 21); indeed, the Putnam data suggest a slight increase in the population may have occurred. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: +1.3%/yr.).
Prairie Warblers will likely be one of the major Regional beneficiaries of beetle damage to pines. Large increases in the number of this second-growth-loving parulid occurred on the Oak Ridge Reservation, Anderson Co., TN, during the ten years since a beetle outbreak occurred there in early 1990s (J. D. Joslin, pers. comm.), so it is likely that similar increases will occur at many beetle-damaged sites on and near the Cumberland Plateau. However, this year little change in Prairie Warbler numbers took place in the BSFNRRS. Numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 44, 56: 1996: 61, 81; 2001: 39, 50) were down a bit. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: -2.2%/yr.) .
The Regional population of Cerulean Warblers--located mainly on the western escarpment of the Cumberland Plateau (especially in DeKalb and Putnam counties, TN), on the higher slopes of the Cumberland Mountains (especially in Morgan Co., TN, and in McCreary Co., KY), and along the gorges of the Big South Fork and, to a lesser extent, the Obed River--experienced a moderately good summer. A walking survey at Frozen Head SNA, Morgan Co., TN, 3 June 2001 (SJS) resulted in a total of 59 Ceruleans, somewhat up from the number (53) noted in 2000 but down quite a bit from numbers counted 1994-1999 (highest total = 106). The number (18) counted on the Wolf Knob BBS in Whitley and McCreary counties, KY, also showed an increase over the number (15) noted in 2000, and that number was also down from numbers noted 1994-1999 (highest total = 34). Results from the Putnam Co. SRS revealed a stable population (1991: 14, 16; 1996: 17, 22; 2001: 16, 23) concentrated on the escarpments of the county, especially the escarpment between the Highland Rim and the Central Basin (elevation 700-900 feet). Status: very uncommon to uncommon breeder; trend: stable in short term but decreasing over long term (Continental BBS trend: -4.0%/yr.).
Black-and-white Warbler numbers on the Regional BBSs are too few to be reliable, but show some fluctuation. Numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 4, 4; 1996: 26, 31; 2001: 18, 24) have fluctuated considerably and reveal a decrease from 1996 to 2001. BBS numbers from the OWSR reveal considerable year-to-year fluctuation, while numbers from the 2001 BBS in the BSFNRRA decreased moderately after several consecutive years of increasing numbers. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: +0.4%/yr.).
American Redstart population density in the Region varies considerably. It is most common in the Cumberland Mountains, being a common breeder in Frozen Head SNA, Morgan Co., TN, and fairly common along the route of the Wolf Knob BBS in Whitley and McCreary counties, KY. It is uncommon along the gorge of the Big South Fork in Scott Co., TN, but apparently absent from the gorge of the Obed River in Morgan Co., TN. A moderate population inhabits the forested slopes along the western escarpment of the plateau in Putnam Co., TN, and adjacent counties. Numbers on the Regional BBSs are too few to be of value in assessing its population status. Numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 6, 9; 1996: 14, 16; 2001: 14, 20) reveal a small but stable population. Status: very uncommon to common; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -0.7%/yr.).
Prothonotary Warblers are rare breeders in the Region. A few breed annually along the Rockcastle River near Bee Rock in Pulaski and Laurel counties, KY, and a small number may breed along the lower reaches of the Big South Fork near Yahoo Falls, McCreary Co., KY, although solid evidence of breeding there has yet to be discovered. The densest Regional population appears to occur along the forested shores of Center Hill Lake in DeKalb Co., TN, and along the Caney Fork River below Center Hill Dam, Dekalb and Smith counties, TN. This bright warbler is seldom recorded on any of the BBSs undertaken in the Region. Status: rare to very uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -1.3%/yr.).
Worm-eating Warblers breed on dry slopes with mature forest throughout the Region. They are recorded in low numbers on the Regional BBSs. On the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 8, 9; 1996: 27, 30; 2001: 25, 31) numbers were stable from 1996 to 2001. Numbers on the BBS in the OWSR have fluctuated a bit but reveal a sizable population; numbers on the BBS in the BSFNRRA also reflect a sizable but stable population. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: +0.5%/yr.).
Swainson's Warblers are thinly distributed within the Region, being found primarily along rivers with rhododendron-covered slopes in McCreary and Pulaski counties, KY, and Morgan, Pickett, and Scott counties, TN. Almost no registrations exist on the Regional BBSs, and no registrations at all have occurred on the Putnam Co. SRS. The densest Regional populations probably occur along the gorges of the Big South Fork, Obed River, and Clear Creek, but even in those areas the populations are not large, as indicated by BBS data collected in the BSFNRRA and OWSR. Status: rare to very uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: +2.3%/yr.).
Ovenbirds are most densely distributed in the continuous deciduous and mixed forests of the Cumberland Plateau; they become much more scarce at lower elevations on the Highland Rim in the western part of the Region. Numbers on Regional BBSs (1998: 28; 1999: 38: 2000: 33: 2001: 28+) have remained fairly stable; numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 31, 40; 1996: 51, 80; 2001: 31, 42) have fluctuated somewhat but reveal a sizable population concentrated in the eastern sector of the county. The densest population in the Region probably resides in the upland areas of the BSFNRRA (see BBS data). Status: uncommon to common breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: +0.6%/yr.).
Louisiana Waterthrush numbers on the Regional BBSs are too low to be reliable. Numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 7, 7; 1996: 14, 14; 2001: 10, 11) have remained fairly stable. One of the densest Regional populations occurs in the OWSR. Status: uncommon breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: +0.7%/yr.).
Numbers of Kentucky Warblers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 30; 1999: 32; 2000: 32; 2001: 31+) have remained remarkably stable in recent years as have numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 60, 67; 1996: 56, 69; 2001: 61, 78). Numbers in the BSFNRRA and OWSR are usually quite low compared to numbers at some other Regional locales. Status: fairly common breeder; trend: stable (Continental BBS trend: -1.2%/yr.).
The Common Yellowthroat is by far the most common warbler in the Region, though its population density decreases considerably at continuously forested sites. Numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 153; 1999: 157; 2000: 171; 2001: 142+) are stable, as for the most part are numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 199, 249; 1996: 252, 399; 2001: 224, 359). Status: common breeder; trend: stable (Continental BBS trend: -0.3%/yr.).
The Hooded Warbler has very dense populations in the BSFNRRA and OWSR. On the Regional BBSs (1998: 24; 1999: 27; 2000: 30; 2001: 28+) numbers of Hoodeds have been remarkably stable, while numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 19, 21; 1996: 43, 62; 2001: 53, 70) have increased. Status: fairly common to common breeder; trend: stable or slightly increasing (Continentall BBS trend: +0.6%/yr.).
Canada Warblers occur during most summers in the Region only at the higher elevations of Frozen Head SNA in Morgan Co., TN, but no evidence of their presence at that site was obtained this season. Status: rare local breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -1.7%/yr.).
Yellow-breasted Chat numbers on Regional BBSs (1998: 118; 1999: 124; 2000: 119; 2001: 86+) apparently decreased somewhat in 2001. Numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 132, 156; 1996: 108, 130; 2001: 122, 161) remained fairly stable. Status: fairly common to common breeder; trend: probably stable but possibly decreasing slightly (Continental BBS trend: -0.2%/yr.).
Links to Datasets
Towhee through Weaver Finch
Eastern Towhee numbers have been fairly stable on the Regional BBSs (1998: 93; 1999: 75; 2000: 70; 2001: 72+), but they have fluctuated somewhat on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 182, 204; 1996: 225, 329; 2001: 161, 235). Status: fairly common to common breeder; trend: probably fairly stable (Continental BBS trend: -1.9%/yr.).
Bachman’s Sparrow formerly bred in some areas of the Cumberland Plateau within the Region, but no records have been forthcoming in more than a decade. However, few intensive searches for the species have occurred, or, if they have occurred, the results have not been made public. Status: possibly extirpated breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -3.8%/yr.).
Chipping Sparrows have adapted well to agricultural landscapes, as well as to suburbia. Regional BBS numbers (1998: 105: 1999: 154; 2000: 101; 2001: 146+) show considerable fluctuation in its population, as do numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 150, 228; 1996: 241, 493; 2001: 165, 348). Status: fairly common to common breeder; trend: uncertain but probably fairly stable over the long term (Continental BBS trend: 0.0%/yr.).
Field Sparrow numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 132; 1999: 112; 2000: 118; 2001: 124+) have been fairly stable, while Putnam Co. SRS data (1991: 163, 213; 1996: 236, 366; 2001: 158, 209) have fluctuated quite a bit; both surveys reflect a fairly large population. Status: fairly common to common breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: -3.1%/yr.).
Grasshopper Sparrows are registered in quite low, fluctuating numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 14; 1999: 2; 2000: 16; 2001: 14+), while numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 8, 11; 1996: 26, 31; 2001: 15, 17) have also fluctuated considerably. Few other Regional survey efforts detect this grassland sparrow. Status: very uncommon to uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -3.5%/yr.).
Henslow's Sparrow breeds in only one Regional county--Pulaski, KY--where at least one singing bird, one nonsinging bird, and one probable juvenile were present 15 Jul 2001 at the Ano strip mines in the southeastern part of the county (RMD, CN, WN, SJS). First discovered at this site in 1998 (RMD), this population is small, never exceeding six singing birds (1999), but regular in occurrence. Henslow’s Sparrows have also been noted during June-August in northern Pulaski Co., KY, in fields on farms in the Mt. Zion and Science Hill areas (RMD). It is likely that a search of suitable habitat, especially old strip mines, will reveal this species’ presence within other UCR counties in the future. Status: rare local breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -7.6%/yr.).
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| Henslow's Sparrow at the Ano strip mines in Pulaski Co., KY, 19 May 2001; photo: W. Neeley. |
Song Sparrow population density in the Region changes dramatically along the escarpment dividing the Highland Rim from the Central Basin, being common on the rim in suitable, relatively unforested habitat westward nearly to the escarpment but often absent or in very low numbers just downslope in the basin. This change in density is clearly evident in the results of the Putnam Co. SRS for these physiographic provinces. Several Regional BBSs near the western border of the Highland Rim also reflect areas with low population densities of this sparrow, notably the Hegira BBS (Cumberland and Monroe counties, KY), the Silver Point BBS (western Putnam, northern DeKalb, and southern Smith counties, TN), and the Union Hill BBS (Clay and Macon counties, TN). This status has been nearly unchanged for several decades, but I predict that Song Sparrows will eventually increase in numbers westward into the Central Basin to the Region’s western border (and beyond). Large forested tracts in the UCR, such as in the BSFNRRA, are usually devoid of Song Sparrows during the nesting season, so the species’ population density throughout the Region is quite variable. Numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 128; 1999: 131; 2000: 118; 2001: 138+) and on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 145, 196; 1996: 227, 382; 2001: 231, 387) were slightly increasing and fairly large. Status: very uncommon to uncommon (western part of Region) and common (central and eastern parts of Region) breeder; trend: stable or slightly increasing (Continental BBS trend: -0.5%/yr.).
Summer Tanager numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 38; 1999: 31; 2000: 22; 2001: 36+) have been fairly stable in recent years, though showing some fluctuation. Numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 69, 76; 1996: 100, 112; 2001: 62, 75) have fluctuated considerably. This tanager’s population density varies inversely with elevation in the Region, being more dense at the lower elevations on the Highland Rim and in the Central Basin than at higher elevations on the Cumberland Plateau and in the Cumberland Moutains; the reverse is true for the next species. Status: very uncommon (higher elevations) to fairly common (lower elevations) breeder; trend: uncertain but probably fairly stable (Continental BBS trend: -0.2%/yr.).
Scarlet Tanagers remain a fairly common bird of forested areas on the Cumberland Plateau and Cumberland Mountains, but they are scarcer at lower elevations in the western part of the Region. Numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 36; 1999: 25; 2000: 32: 2001: 30+) have been fairly stable, while numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 32, 39; 1996: 44, 47; 2001: 51, 60) have been increasing. Status: very uncommon (lower elevations) to fairly common (higher elevations) breeder; trend: stable or slightly increasing (Continental BBS trend: -0.3%/yr.).
The Northern Cardinal, the state bird of Kentucky, is a common Regional songbird, occurring in a wide variety of habitats and adapting well to many human modifications of the environment. Regional BBS data (1998: 226; 1999: 224; 2000: 233; 2001: 246+) show no short-term signs of decline in its population, while data from the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 323, 501; 1996: 385, 829; 2001: 327, 659) reveal some fluctuations in a notably large population. Status: common to abundant breeder; trend: stable (Continental BBS trend: 0.0%/yr.).
Rose-breasted Grosbeaks are rare breeders at Regional sites mainly at or above 3000 feet in elevation. No evidence of the species’ presence was reported during the season from one site where it regularly occurs--Frozen Head SNA in Morgan Co., TN--or from one site where it occasionally appears--Hinch Mountain in Cumberland Co., TN. Status: rare local breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -0.8%/yr.).
Blue Grosbeak numbers were fairly stable on the 2001 Putnam Co. SRS (102, 184) compared to numbers noted in 1996 (115, 161) and up from numbers posted in 1991 (75, 83). Numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 60; 1999: 62; 2000: 57; 2001: 44+) probably decreased somewhat in 2001. This colorful finch favors open agricultural habitat, so it is rare in the heavily forested BSFNRRA, making one noted along a powerline right-of-way on Divide Rd., Pickett Co., TN, during a BBS conducted 6 June 2001 (SJS) a good find; another was noted at the edge of a large field near the John Litton Farm in the BSFNRRA, Scott Co., TN, 28 June 2001 (SJS). Status: fairly common breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: +1.0%/yr.).
Indigo Buntings continue to be one of the most abundant songbirds of the rural countryside in the Region, which lies near the species’ continental center of abundance. Putnam Co. SRS data (1991: 358, 546; 1996: 421, 912; 2001: 381, 927), as well as data from almost any other source available within the Region, reveal a large, reasonably stable population. The population in the BSFNRRA may have increased a bit in 2001 from levels present 1997-2000, perhaps in response to the opening up of the forest there as a result of the infestation of southern pine beetles. Status: abundant breeder; trend: stable (Continental BBS trend: -0.7%/yr.).
The Dickcissel population in the Region is small and patchily distributed. Regional BBS data (1998: 11; 1999: 2; 2000: 11; 2001: 10+) are few, while the species is almost never recorded on the Putnam County SRS (1991: 1, 1; 1996: 0, 0; 2001: 0, 0) although one small breeding population occurs in that county in most years. The Sulfur Lick BBS in Monroe and Metcalfe counties, KY, usually generates registrations of 10 or so Dickcissels, making it one of the best sites in the UCR for this declining grassland species. Status: very uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -1.5%/yr.).
Red-winged Blackbird numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 254; 1999: 209; 2000: 172; 2001: 170+) are moderately large and apparently declining, while numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 118, 284; 1996: 159, 591; 2001: 147, 653) are quite large and apparently increasing. Few red-wings are noted in forested areas, so data from BBSs in the DBNF, BSFNRRA, and OWSR are not useful in assessing the status of this icterid in the Region. Status: common breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -1.0%/yr.).
The Eastern Meadowlark is another member of the guild of declining grassland species, so it is heartening to see reasonably stable numbers of meadowlarks on recent Regional BBSs (1998: 146; 1999: 165; 2000: 140; 2001: 137+); numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 205, 379; 219; 710; 2001: 153, 490) have fluctuated somewhat but apparently do not reflect a decline in numbers of individuals registered although a decline in the number of stops at which meadowlarks were recorded did occur. Status: common breeder; trend: probably stable (Continental BBS trend: -2.8%/yr.).
Common Grackle numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 184; 1999: 203; 2000: 143; 2001: 153+) may have decreased a bit in the last couple of years. Numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 154, 438; 1996: 206; 821; 2001: 124, 447) have fluctuated quite a bit and the number of stops at which the species was noted has dropped also. Status: common breeder; trend: possibly decreasing (Continental BBS trend: -1.5%/yr.).
Brown-headed Cowbird numbers of the Regional BBSs (1998: 60; 1999: 78; 2000: 81; 2001: 76+) have increased moderately, while fluctuating considerably on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 153, 247; 1996: 276, 658; 2001: 171, 428). Numbers of cowbirds on BBSs in the BSFNRRA and OWSR are small and remaining stable. Status: common breeder; trend: stable or possibly increasing (Continental BBS trend: -1.0%/yr.).
The Orchard Oriole population in the Region is considerably larger than the population of the next species. Numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 78; 1999: 57; 2000: 60; 2001: 49+) dropped a bit in 2001, while remaining fairly stable on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 71, 82; 1996: 89, 111; 2001: 81, 109). This oriole seldom inhabits continuous forest, so it is largely unregistered on BBSs in the BSFNRRA, DBNF, or OWSR. Status: fairly common breeder; trend: stable or slightly decreasing (Continental BBS trend: -1.5%/yr.).
The Regional Baltimore Oriole population (and the population in areas surrounding the Region) is much lower today than it apparently was several decades ago. Baltimores are seldom registered on Regional BBSs, and they are not much more frequently encountered on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 3, 4; 1996: 7, 9; 2001: 3, 3). Status: rare to very uncommon breeder; trend: uncertain (Continental BBS trend: -0.5%/yr.).
House Finches have not increased in numbers as much as expected 15-20 years ago, but they are nonetheless a prominent part of the Regional avifauna. Numbers on the Regional BBSs (1998: 8; 1999: 25; 2000: 27; 2001: 33+) continue to increase, while numbers on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 16, 45; 1996: 59, 86; 2001: 44, 93) are up considerably in the last decade. Areas with continuous forest, such as the BSFNRRA and OWSR, harbor very low numbers of this western import. Status: uncommon to fairly common breeder; trend: increasing (Continental BBS trend: +1.6%/yr.).
American Goldfinches have increased slightly on Regional BBSs (1998: 85; 1999: 93; 2000: 95; 2001: 95+) in recent years, while fluctuating a bit on the Putnam Co. SRS (1991: 91, 126; 1996: 141, 246; 2001: 113, 193). Status: common breeder; trend: stable or slightly increasing (Continental BBS trend: -0.4%/yr.).
I’ll let readers review the datasets and determine the status and trend for the Regional House Sparrow population themselves. (Continental BBS trend: -2.4%/yr.)
Links to Datasets
Observers: Terry M. Campbell (TMC), Janice Chadwell (JC), David Chaffin (DC), Daniel L. Combs (DLC), Tommy L. Curtis (TLC), Virginia Curtis (VC), Jay Desgrosellier (JD), Roseanna M. Denton (RMD), Ginger K. Ensor (GKE), Troy Ettel (TE), Bonnie Johnson (BJ), Al McLarren (AM), Connie Neeley (CN), Wendell Neeley (WN), Judy Newsome (JN), Charles P. Nicholson (CPN), Lynda Perry (LP), Chris Sloan (CS), Barbara H. Stedman (BHS), Stephen J. Stedman (SJS), Winston A. Walden (WAW), Melinda Welton (MW), Carol Williams (CW), Don Williams (DW), Mary Zimmerman (MZ).
Literature Cited
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