QUICK POST: I bolted out of work to run for the PAINTED BUNTING that had been reported in Sussex County, New Jersey. Since it was Friday, the traffic was miserable and I got to Andover a little on the late side (I didn’t think I would ever get there!). I located the bird with the help of Denis, the only other birder present. It was his first time seeing the bird in New Jersey, and for me it was life bird #316. And what a beautiful bird at that, really it’s hard to believe this bird unless you see it. The bird only came to the feeder one time while I was there, but he spent a good amount of time there before finding a nearby perch. I wish the light had been better for photos, but that’s the way it goes some times. What a super bird and a very nice way to end the week. Thanks to Linda Scrima, Maria Loukeris, and Marianne Ofenloch for the heads up about the bird and for the details on how to locate him.
That is amazing !!!
Super bird to see in the northeast, especially in the dead of winter! Matt
Fantastic, as good as a Gyr!!!!!!
Sorry Deb, but not even close for me. Give me the Gyrfalcon any day! Good luck if you go for it tomorrow. Matt
WOW, Matt
That is so fabulous. I didn’t know they were ever around this area at all. He is so beautiful.
I am glad you took the leap of faith to find it!!!
Wilma
I was thrilled to get the bird Wilma – it was late and I was not confident at all. Matt
Congratulations Matt! Great bird!
No doubt about it John. I feel like I got very lucky today seeing that bird! Matt
Love the contrast of the barren winter branches with the brilliant patchwork colors of the Bunting! Congratulations on getting this wonderful life bird.
Thanks Kathy! I was happy to get some shots of him off the feeder, even if they are a bit distant. Matt
If it found a reliable food source it may stick around a few days.
Jeff – it looks like it has for sure. I’m not sure how long folks have been seeing it there… Matt
Congrats! So glad you got to see it! It’ll probably be a mob scene there this weekend; poor birds! Are you going to hunt the Gyr this weekend? Too bad you didn’t get it during one of your many “blind times”…I figured you’d be the one to find something in that area! 🙂
Thanks for the email about the bird Marianne! I am doing a Golden Eagle Survey this morning, but I will certainly try for the Gyrfalcon later or tomorrow. I was jealous of the find, but the woman who found it is out there just about every day from what I can tell. Matt