Hi Everyone,

Yesterday (26 May 2009) Sam Dyke found a breeding-plumaged SNOW BUNTING in a plowed field at the corner of Berry and Mt Hermon Roads in Wicomico County.  He must have been quite surprised!  Mike Walsh photographed it yesterday.

I looked for it this morning (27 May) at around 11:30 but couldn't relocate it.  Then Mike Burchett called this afternoon to report that he had just seen the bunting in the same place Sam had it yesterday.  I got over there quickly and had great, close scope views and took many digiscopes (from ca. 4:45 to 5:35).  Jim Brighton arrived soon after I did and took photos as well.

Jim has described this bird as the rarest in MD this year, and in case you haven't noticed, he's seen more than a few interesting birds in 2009.  Jim also remarked that--without far northern travel--this is probably his only chance to see this species in this plumage!

Have fun,

Ron Gutberlet
Salisbury, MD