Hi Everyone,

As Phil noted, the MD/DCRC is pleased to announce that Barnacle Goose has been formally added to the Maryland state list. Evidence continues to amass suggesting natural origin for a majority of Barnacle Geese on the East Coast. The pattern one sees when delving into the range and timing of records paints a convincing picture. Furthermore, the majority of birds are adults that occur with migratory Canada Goose flocks, often with Richardson's Cackling Geese and Greater White-fronted Geese. After research and extensive discussion, the MD/DCRC will follow a policy of "innocent until proven suspicious" in handling Barnacle Goose records. In addition to considering correct ID first and foremost, the committee will look for red flags in details of timing, flock composition, behavior clues, and of course traditional signs of previous captivity (e.g., clipped halluces). Records that suggest natural vagrancy are likely to be accepted normally.

The following records are now accepted. Other records will circulate per MD/DCRC policy.

MD/2000-014. Jesterville, Wicomico Co., Maryland - 2/6/2000 to 2/14/2000.
MD/2005-144. Great Oak Pond, Kent Co., Maryland - 10/15/2005 to 10/16/2005.
MD/2010-130. Great Oak Pond, Kent Co., Maryland - 1/19/2006.

Thanks to the committee for the careful and thorough work. Thanks to Marshall Iliff and others who have kept the origin discussion lively. It is my personal opinion that the current Kent Co. bird fits several of the positive criteria and has no strikes against it. Awesome find, Dan and Maren! 

Good birding!

Bill
Chair, MD/DCRC

Bill Hubick
Pasadena, Maryland

http://www.billhubick.com

~~~

From: Phil Davis <>

>MD/DCRC Chair, Bill Hubick will shortly be sending out some background information on the sightings that the committee has just accepted.
>
>The Barnacle Goose acceptance brings the number of species on the Official List of the Birds of Maryland up to 439.
>
>Note that the Chestertown bird is still subject to review by the MD/DCRC in terms of whether or not it will be accepted as an additional Maryland record.
>
>Phil

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