If birders doubt the many sightings by birders on the Cornell
team and the many sightings reported in Gallagher's book, then
how reliable are the reports of birds on MDOsprey, even the ones
seen by multiple observers?  The whole experience of birding, of
Christmas Counts, of the MD Breeding Bird Atlas, etc. etc. rely
on multiple confirming observations corresponding to fact.  The
skeptics are making a special exception to the underlying
assumption that developed in the 20th century, that field birding
does not require bagging the bird.  That field guides and written
observations are as good as a shotgun.

If you are an ornithologist, I can believe you need better proof.
If you are a birder, then you need to ask yourself, how many
confirming reports do I need to believe other birders' sightings?

I went to Arkansas.  I know what I saw through 10x binocs at
about 100 ft range.  I am just one of many birders and
non-birders who have seen an IBWO in recent years.  Do the travel
- see the bird - cut us some slack.  

Bill Ellis