This morning I went to Alpha Ridge Park to look for the Alder Flycatcher that has been reported there for a number of days during the past week. What I found was a Willow Flycatcher doing all three of its song variations including its Alder-like three-note song. I also heard its "rip" and "whit" calls. I also heard a second Willow Flycatcher. Unfortunately very few people record the birds they believe to be Alder Flycatchers so I don't know what people were hearing here. There may well have been an Alder Flycatcher here but I could not prove it today. I am writing this note so that people are aware of the possibilities of misidentification of Willow Flycatcher vocalizations and to be very careful when you believe you hear an Alder. Video cameras are very good for recording songs even if you cannot see the bird. I have used this technique in the past to record Alder Flycatchers to be sure of the ID. I hope people will continue to visit this site to add more opinions. 

Bob Ringler 
Eldersburg MD