A remarkable week of shorebird and raptor activity swept across the Midwest, with swallows-tailed kites, phalaropes, and tattlers dominating the eBird reports. Crossbills, hummingbirds, and several coastal vagrants added to an unusually diverse period for early autumn migration.
Up to four swallow-tailed kites were reported at a Michigan stakeout on August 24, representing part of 73 regional reports across six Midwest states. This marks substantial activity for these typically southern raptors in the region.
Flockline species illustration · Not the reported individual.Across the region
Red-necked Phalaropes Across Great Lakes
Seven red-necked phalaropes were documented at Kalamazoo River mouth, Michigan on August 24, with 43 total reports across five states during the week. Phalarope concentrations at coastal and impoundment sites reflect active shorebird migration.
Flockline species illustration · Not the reported individual.Rare report
Wandering Tattler Confined to Michigan
Forty-six reports of wandering tattler came exclusively from Michigan, with the latest sighting at Macatawa South Breakwall on August 24. This oceanic vagrant represents an exceptional occurrence for the Midwest during late summer.
Macatawa--South Breakwall · August 24, 2026 · 1 bird
Flockline species illustration · Not the reported individual.Notable run
Red Crossbill Flock in Kansas
A flock of up to 20 red crossbills was recorded near Cheney, Kansas on August 23, part of 27 reports across five states. Crossbill movements suggest irruptive behavior driven by food availability in the region.
1620 N 359th St W, Cheney US-KS 37.70948, -97.75104 · August 23, 2026 · 5 birds
Flockline species illustration · Not the reported individual.Rare report
Black-chinned Hummingbird in Nebraska
A black-chinned hummingbird appeared at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area, Nebraska on August 23, representing the only state record among 17 total reports. This western vagrant remains exceptionally rare for the central Midwest.
Wildcat Hills SRA--Nature Center · August 23, 2026 · 1 bird
Flockline species illustration · Not the reported individual.Across the region
Mississippi Kites in Ohio Gathering
Up to 23 mississippi kites congregated at Bath Nature Preserve, Ohio on August 24, with 11 reports across four states for the week. This roost site activity reflects pre-migration assemblies typical of late August.
