Keywords
bird migration, citizen science initiatives, eBird, migratory phenology
Abstract
The Least Flycatcher Empidonax minimus is a small passerine migrant bird that passes through Arkansas in fall and spring migration. The birds are vocal during spring passage but relatively quiet and unobtrusive during fall migration, leading to many fewer reports by birdwatchers in fall than spring. We use eBird maps and data to present evidence to support this discrepancy between fall and spring observations. We also show that the species is under-reported in Arkansas during the fall compared to neighboring regions. This may be in part due to the reluctance of some birders to provide the minimal evidence required to substantiate their observations to satisfy eBird reviewers’ queries.
Recommended Citation
Barnes, L. and Kannan, R.
(2023)
"Least Flycatchers Under-reported in Fall Migration in Arkansas —A Citizen Science Conundrum,"
Journal of the Arkansas Academy of Science: Vol. 77, Article 18.
https://doi.org/10.54119/jaas.2023.77117
Available at:
https://scholarworks.uark.edu/jaas/vol77/iss1/18
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