The New Hampshire Rare Birds Committee (NHRBC) has updated the “official” New Hampshire State Bird List as of 2/28/23. This updated list not only incorporates new records approved by the NHRBC through 2/28/23, but also lists the species in their taxonomic order per the ABA Checklist, Version 8.0.8, dated March 2021.
The list is not meant to include all records for each of the rare birds, but rather to assure that there is at least one credible record for each species that is included on the list.
The State List includes two categories. One category is the “main” list which includes 428 species. The other category is the “hypothetical” list which includes 4 species. The main list includes modern records which are well supported with details, as well as historic records which are from published resources and often include specimen records. Five species on this list are given an asterisk since they are historic records of birds that have become extinct or were extirpated from the state many years ago.
The hypothetical list includes modern records which are likely accurate, but do not meet the current criteria for a first state record which consist of separate documentation from at least three (3) observers, a specimen, or a photograph/video recording/audio recording.
Review Species
The NHRBC has also determined which species on the New Hampshire State List are of sufficient rarity in the state to require a review of reports. These Review Species are designated as such in the State List. This list will be updated by the RBC as warranted. Additionally, any species observed outside its regular range (e.g., Gannet observed inland), or regular seasons (e.g., Swainson’s Thrush observed in winter), could be considered to be of sufficient rarity requiring review by the RBC.
Observers are encouraged to document their sighting with a description of all pertinent details in their eBird report. Photographs (even poor ones) are extremely helpful in documenting a species. Documentation may also be submitted via New Hampshire Bird Records (forms available here).
The New Hampshire Rare Birds Committee reviews sightings of rarities to maintain accuracy and scientific integrity of the state’s historic records. It is independent of New Hampshire Audubon and New Hampshire Bird Records.
