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Rufous Hummer, stray Egyptian Goose



Tracy and I drove down to Hampstead Sunday and saw the adult female Rufous
Hummingbird at the Scott residence.  The bird appears to have settled in to
what we assume will be her winter home.  She has staked out one of the
three feeders and could be seen chasing the occasional Ruby-Throat that
ventured too close, usually returning to perch in a Japanese Maple near the
feeder.  I tried to see if the right leg was banded as it is likely that
this is the same female that has overwintered for the past two, and
possibly three years.  Once or twice I thought I caught a glimpse of a band
but I cannot be sure.  The Rufous seems a bit more hesitant in feeding than
the local Ruby-Throats, the RT's practically set up camp at the feeder
while the Rufous usually hovers and stays for just a few seconds each
visit.  Nonetheless, I think I got some decent photos.  Thanks again to
Betty and Scotty for opportunity to watch this rare jewel!

On the same topic, I obtained copy of Bob Sargent's new Ruby Throated
Hummingbird book as a gift last week.  The book has great photography and
interesting text.  I think it's published by Stackpole Books and runs about
twenty bucks.

We had an interesting sighting in the neighborhood last evening.  A large
bird with white wing patches flew by twice and appeared to land up the
street.  I hopped on my bike and investigated, finding an Egyptian Goose
preening in the front yard of a newly built, but vacant, house.  The bird
had no leg band, and was obviously not pinioned.  If you know of anyone who
may have lost this bird please let me know and I'll see if I can relocate
it this evening.


Steve Shultz
steven.shultz@us.pwcglobal.com
Cary, NC
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