Why Not? My "Next Ten List" for Louisiana

I recently asked Louisiana birders for their predictions for the next ten birds they felt would be found in the state. Because I got to read the lists before I posted them, I thought it would be better to use birds that none of the others had chosen. Even after everyone had picked*, I found ten species that I think have a reasonable chance of being found here.

White-crowned Pigeon

This species isn't a common vagrant, but White-crowned Pigeons commute over water every day in south Florida, and one popped up in coastal Mississippi a year or two ago. White-crowned Pigeons look so distinctive that if even only one showed up it could conceivably attract attention.

Black-capped Vireo

This is an eye-catching bird that is increasing in number and has strayed long distances. Its Texas range isn't too far from us, and it's migratory.

Clay-colored Thrush (Clay-colored Robin)

I'm hoping this is another in the line of Mexican/South Texas birds that is expanding northward and will eventually reach us. In the meantime, a few pioneers might show up.

Common Poorwill

I don't know how possible this bird is, but it's migratory. If one arrives, it could easily go undetected as it's nocturnal, but why not keep an eye out for it?

Dusky-capped Flycatcher

It's a flycatcher, and it shows up as close as Texas. Will it be passed off as an Ash-throated?

Golden-cheeked Warbler

It's an early migrant in the summer, so it might pass through when few birders are in the field, but a nice male would stand out.

Lucifer Hummingbird

One of the few breeding hummers of the U.S. that hasn't made an appearance in Louisiana. A male would be distinctive.

Ross's Gull

Eventually one will turn up this far south. Why not in Louisiana?

Streak-backed Oriole

This species has turned up in pretty far-flung places, and it's orange. If it shows up, it might attract the atention of even a non-birder.

White-tipped Dove

Doves are prone to wandering. See my thoughts about Clay-colored Thrush.

*For the complete list of everyone's predictions, see the LOS website.