Bill,
   Actually the Red-throated Loon was still present at Lilypons yesterday afternoon. Thanks to the call from you and John I was able to get there after my own overeating and saw it shortly before sunset. I was there from 4:27 to 4:37. The sun dropped below the horizon at 4:30 but the light was very good and the loon was easily seen from the road the entire time. The previous record for Frederick County was one at Fort Detrick Nov. 16-19, 1972. I believe a photo of that bird appeared on the cover of Maryland Birdlife.

--
Bob Ringler 
Eldersburg MD 


-------------- Original message -------------- 
From: Bill Hubick <> 
> We then headed to Lilypons, where we spotted a loon, naked-eye, from the 
> bridge. As we entered and approached on foot, however, we were thrilled to 
> see it was a RED-THROATED. This was quite a surprise, as this must surely 
> be one of the toughest counties for the species. Other birds around the 
> gardens included the following: 
> > (Of note, it seems that the loon was not present this afternoon. While 
> certainly disappointing for birders, I am relieved that the bird will not 
> be starving on a pond too narrow for take-off)