FYI: be on the lookout...
GREGORY.B.MILLER@bge.com
Fri, 21 Aug 1998 11:54:35 -0400
Howdy all!
I have a couple of summer reports from observant, but non-birding
friends in Southern Maryland (Chesapeake Ranch Estates near Solomons).
These birds are NOT currently present at the feeders, but should be looked
for here in Southern Maryland. The homeowner does not wish to have a bunch
of visitors (sorry folks). I am only mentioning this so that you keen-eyed
birders are on the alert. I have not seen either of these birds:
1) A small, bright green bird that has visited a seed feeder near
Solomons, MD. This bird is described by the homeowner as a Goldfinch-sized
bird that often feeds on seed on the ground below the feeder. After
visiting the National Zoo and looking at pictures, it was thought by the
homeowner to be a female Painted Bunting. It has not been seen for the
last 3 wks.
2) An all green hummingbird about the size of a Ruby-throated
Hummingbird has been coming to the hummingbird feeder. Male, female, and
young R-t Hummers have all been identified by the homeowner at the feeder.
This bird, the homeowner claims, is not a Ruby-throated. At any rate, it
has not been seen as well as bird #1. There is possibly some rufous on the
lower part of the belly, but the chest is definitely green. The homeowner
has no guess on this one and neither do I. However, if the chest and/or
belly are truly green, this quickly eliminates any common hummingbird. I'm
"on-call" for this one. It has not been seen for over a week. Wish I'd
have known about it sooner...
Although these birds may not turn up again, it is my hope that these
birds can be refound here in Southern Maryland. If I find out that either
of the birds has returned, I will do what I can to try to obtain some
amenable "viewing" privileges for visiting birders.
Greg Miller
Lusby, MD