[EBB Sightings] Red Crossbills

Matt et al.,
Sorry for the late reply.  In the 18 years or so that I've lived in 
Oakland, I can only recall 2 or maybe 3 years during which I saw 
crossbills regularly.  In at least one year it was a pretty big outbreak 
year all over the bay area, based on the sightings that were being 
reported.  Unfortunately, I can't recall which years.  During those years, 
I saw crossbills with regularity in Redwood and upper Joaquin Miller 
parks.  The trail where I walk my dogs daily would often yield crossbills 
several times weekly.  That is the Dunn trail, which you can access from 
the parking lot on Skyline, a half mile or so north of Redwood Rd.. I 
would also suggest driving Skyline Blvd along the section where it 
separates Redwood Regional Park and Joaquin Miller and stop at various 
places.  I saw them primarily in Monterey Pines, or flying between 
isolated pine stands.  Some of these have been hit hard by pine pitch 
canker, so it will be interesting to see what happens next time we have a 
lot of crossbills around.  Hope that's helpful.

John H. Harris
Professor of Biology
Mills College
5000 MacArthur Blvd.
Oakland, CA 94613
(510) 430-2027
johnh at mills.edu


On Fri, 20 Aug 2004, Matt Ricketts wrote:

> No, I haven't seen any lately, but am wondering if anyone knows of any reliable
> spots in the East Bay to find this species. I know going out birding just to
> look for crossbills isn't the wisest thing given their irregular and irruptive
> nature, but they are one of my "nemesis" birds. Several times while in the
> Northwest I have heard flocks flying over but have not once been able to get a
> good look at any birds! So, if anyone knows of any spots or has seen or heard
> any lately I would appreciate the info (e-mail off-list).
> Thanks,
> Matt Ricketts
> El Cerrito
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