Or at least that's what I called it.  The bunting spent about 10 seconds
just after 10 this morning (March 31, 2007) checking out a feeder.  I
saw it fly in, spent the first half of its visit recovering from the
shock of seeing that green, finding by binoculars and getting them
focused.  Since the bunting left without taking any of the proffered
treats, I do not expect to see it again but I spent the next hour and a
half waiting for its return, checking nearby thickets, feeders, etc.  I
will keep the vigil and post any positive results.

The bird in question was fairly bright yellow below with a green (not
olive) back.  Conical, finchy bill.  A hint of an eyering.  No wingbars,
no black on the face, and no streaking.  Although it was a short view,
it sounds like a pretty convincing, first-cycle, male Painted Bunting to
me.  Size and shape were consistent with that ID.  I don't think any
other native species are contenders.  Are there any exotics that have a
similar plumage?

Dave
-- 
David Mozurkewich
Seabrook, PG MD
mozurk at bell atlantic dot net