The Midwest saw notable southern vagrant activity this week, with Swallow-tailed Kites reaching five states and multiple shorebird species appearing across the region. Waterfowl and raptors continue showing unusual late-summer distributions throughout the area.
Two birds appeared at a southern Indiana location on August 21, with reports now spanning five Midwestern states and totaling 56 sightings. This graceful raptor continues its exceptional inland push during late summer, making this one of the season's most noteworthy vagrant events.
2469–2883 SR-59, Brazil US-IN (39.4213,-87.1268) · August 21, 2026 · 1 bird
Flockline species illustration · Not the reported individual.Rare report
Clark's Nutcracker in Iowa
This rare Rocky Mountain specialist appeared at Clark's Nutcracker Spot in Iowa on August 21, representing the sole state with reports of this species. Twenty-seven documented sightings across just one state underscore how unusual and localized this occurrence truly is.
Clark’s Nutcracker Spot · August 21, 2026 · 1 bird
Flockline species illustration · Not the reported individual.Rare report
Common Ringed Plover in Minnesota
An eastern vagrant appeared at Baldwin Lake Trails on August 21, with all 24 state reports concentrated in Minnesota alone. This Old World shorebird represents a striking find for Midwestern birders seeking uncommon waterbird species.
Flockline species illustration · Not the reported individual.Notable run
Black-necked Stilts in Illinois
Up to ten birds gathered at Woodley Road in Illinois on August 21, contributing to 30 reports across four states. This southwestern shorebird's continued inland presence suggests optimal conditions are drawing the species northward.
Flockline species illustration · Not the reported individual.Across the region
Rufous Hummingbird across the Great Plains
Up to four birds were documented in Kearney, Nebraska on August 21, with 39 reports now scattered across three states. Late-summer hummingbird dispersal continues generating sightings as birds explore new territories before migration.
Flockline species illustration · Not the reported individual.Across the region
Trumpeter Swans in Wisconsin
Two birds appeared at Shovelers Sink on August 20, marking one of 20 reports across three Midwestern states. This species' recovery continues as waterfowl expand their range into traditional breeding regions during late summer.
Shovelers Sink (use separate hotspot for pond to the south) · August 20, 2026 · 2 birds
