About Rare Birds

FeederWatchers are encouraged to report when they see a bird that is out of its typical range in winter.

Each rare bird report is reviewed by Lab staff. The report is posted on our charts if the bird is identified with a reasonable degree of certainty and is considered rare or unusual at that location in winter. Lab staff use all accompanying information to identify the birds in each report, but are often unable to make positive identifications unless the report is accompanied by photos or a video.

If you sent in a rare bird form but do not see your bird listed on this site, it doesn't mean your sighting isn't interesting to us. It could mean that we didn't have enough documentation to confirm the bird's identity or that a winter sighting in your area is not considered unusual. All rare bird reports, whether they are posted on this site or not, are kept on file.