Bad news for the procrastinators and also for the bird. In spite of two
observers watching from 11 a.m. to 2:15 pm., and my efforts from 2:15 to 4:30 p.m.,
the Hammond's flycatcher was not seen on Friday, December 16.
The last observation was when I saw the bird fly down from the vine towards
the Gunpowder River in the middle of the day on Wednesday, December 14 (day 22
for the bird).
I'm quite sure our little friend is well on his way to the highlands of
Central America. The alternative is not worth commenting on.
I've enjoyed my "15 minutes of fame". It was a great experience to meet many
of you, and I thank especially the photographers whose efforts helped confirm
a rare and hard to identify species.
Best regards,
Hank Kaestner
Monkton, Maryland |