About 10:00 a.m. this morning (1-8-11) Dennis Kirkwood and I found what we believe to be Harford County's first Ross's Goose.  Shortly after getting some excellent views of one of the continuing Cackling "Richardson's" Goose at Turney's Pond, Dennis came across a quite camoflouged "Snow Goose" in the field.  In the same breath, Dennis said, "too small, and the bill is stubby, I think we have a Ross's Goose. Wouldn't that be something if we have both a Cackling Goose and a Ross's Goose at the same time."  Dave and Danny Webb and Bill Collins also saw our potential Ross's.  Others were in the hunt.  The bird stuck to near Turney's Pond until about noon, before flying off perhaps to feed in the many nearby fields.  There's shouldn't be any reason this bird doesn't stick to Turney's, especially in the morning and later afternoon.  The link is an attempt to photodocument the bird.  Any discussion is welcome.


http://www.flickr.com/photos/rcbirder/


The birds are among a large flock of Canada Geese at 4531 Harford Creamery Rd.
Permission is granted to drive down the lane.  It is best to park near the cedar 
halfway down the hill and stay in or near your car as the birds generally will not flush.

--
Rick Cheicante
Harford County
Bel Air, MD