----- Original Message -----
From: Matthew Moskwik
To: inland-nw-birders at uidaho.edu
Sent: Monday, August 05, 2002 7:19 PM
Subject: Strange Hummingbird


Inlanders,

There is an immature female hummingbird that is coming to a feeder in Cusick, WA that I have been unable to identify. The bird appears to be slightly larger than Rufous females that I have seen, although I can't be sure without another bird to compare to. The bird in question also has buffy flanks and a finely spotted throat and cheeks. It has a green back, and the center of the tail also appears to be green (unfortunately I haven't been able to observe the tail, when it is fanned). One of the most intriguing characteristics about this bird that I haven't seen on other hummingbirds in the presence of a very distinct white line that extends from the chin through the eye-ring and then to the neck. Do Rufous Hummingbirds have this eye line? Any comments or suggestions are welcome, as I'm completely baffled by the bird in question. I will leave the directions to the bird below, just in case someone wants to check it out.

Proceed north on Highway 20 until you reach the city limits of Cusick, WA. Just past the only gas station in town turn right (east) on Monumental Way. After less than 1/2 mile the road will bear to the right (south) and become First Street. Proceed another 75 to 100 yards south on First and on the right side of the road will be a tavern (that's the name of the business). On the outside of the tavern is a hummingbird feeder. This is where the bird has been feeding, especially in the early morning. If anyone goes to find the bird, let me know what you think.

Matthew Moskwik
mpmoskwik at hotmail.com
Cheney, WA