I just returned from a non-birding quick visit to mom and dad in Abilene,
TX. I have gotten many life birds on these visits (Ladder-backed Woodpecker
this time). We were limited to back yard birding and it was enjoyable to
see Cardinals, Blue Jays, Cactus Wrens, Great-tailed Grackles, and Western
Kingbirds again. They have good vegetation for hummingbirds (honeysuckle
and red yucca). This year mixed in with the normal Black-chinned HB's I
spotted and pointed out several Rufous HB's (at least 2 females and an
immature male). It was fun to see these familiar birds on their migration
so far from home.

After I left my folks called their hotline and reported the Rufous HB's.
Much to their surprize, birders started arriving at their door, filming and
taking notes. It seems that Rufous HB's are quite a rarity on the Texas
high planes!

Charles Vaughan
Woodinville, WA
cev at rocket.com