All, A photo of a rufous flanked hummingbird was posted to a Facebook site on November 9. Matt Parsons recognized the potential and made contact with the homeowner, Kim Leyten, and arranged for he and I to see the bird on November 16. Our observations and photos (and photos of others) appear to confirm adult female Rufous, based primarily on shape and pattern of tail feathers. The record was kept local initially as we feared a flood of visitors beyond what the homeowner would be prepared to accept. As of now, most local birders have seen the bird and the homeowner has been very happy with events so far. Kim has now indicated that she is OK with the location being made public and is open to more birders coming to see the bird. The address is 7355 Confederation Line, Watford in Warwick township. The property is an active farm so be mindful of moving equipment. Drive past the house to the grain bins and park in front of the bins, in the small gravel lot facing the house. The feeder is on the deck in the backyard, clearly visible from the gravel lot. The bird visits at least once every half hour and we would ask that birders only stay long enough to get a good view as parking is limited. If the lot is full, please wait elsewhere and do not block the driveway or drive on the grass. Viewing can be done from the lot or yard edge. Please do not wander through the yard unless directed to do so from the homeowner…with small numbers of visitors Kim has been happy to invite us up on the deck for better looks. Kim has been a wonderful host and everyone that has been able to see the bird has been appreciative and respectful. We’re hopeful this will continue as more visitors are allowed access as this arrangement will only continue as long as the homeowner remains happy with events going forward. Ebird checklist, with photos and video, here… https://ebird.org/checklist/S97684671
Cheers, James Holdsworth and Matt Parsons 'If one does not fail at times, then one has not challenged himself.'' - Ferdinand Porsche -- Ontbirds and Birdnews are moderated email Listservs provided by the Ontario Field Ornithologists (OFO) as a service to all birders in Ontario. Ontbirds is reserved for sightings of provincially rare birds. To post a message on Ontbirds, send an email to: birdalert@ontbirds.ca. If you have any questions or concerns, contact the Ontbirds Moderators by email at birdal...@ofo.ca. Please review posting rules and guidelines at http://ofo.ca/site/content/listserv-guidelines During the COVID-19 pandemic, all Ontario birders should be taking extra precautions and following local, provincial, and federal regulations regarding physical distancing and non-essential travel. To find out more about OFO, please visit our website at ofo.ca or Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/OntarioFieldOrnithologists.
