I have lots of birds coming to the feeders in my yard, including lots of
house finches. I'm troubled by the fact that three of the finches - and only
they - have tumors on their heads near the eye. One's tumor even includes the
eye and gives it the appearance, that's not comical in this case, of one of
those rubber toys that you squeeze and the eyes pop out. Does anyone have any
insight into what's going on?

The second question relates to the fact that my wife and I are going to the
island of Hawaii at the end of March. (no sympathy, please) I've never been,
so I intend to get a good bit of birding in. Does anyone have any idea of
good spots to go, particularly on the Kona and Volcano sides? Also, does
anyone have any good information to impart about possible pelagic trips there?

Thanks for your help.
Steve Aronoff
2301 West Street
Bellingham WA 98225
360-671-9439
oceras at aol.com