Tweets,
At about 12:45 today the redpoll flock with the Hoary in it return to the birches accross the street from me. Though it was cold and light snow for much of the afternoon, I watched the flock from 12:45-3:30. I had picked up a disposable camera and through the scope could get fairly decent shots. I got good shots of the underside, including breast and undertail coverts. I also got back shot and face shots, but couldn't snap a picture the few times that I got good views or the rump before it flew to another birch or limb, oh well keep trying I guess.
One of the things that I hadn't noticed before but really stuck out today was how much smaller the bill was than the commons. Hopefully the back shots will also show the amount of white in the wings, especially in the secondaries.
Taking these photos and viewing it in the snow, seemed very appropriate though it certainly made viewing it less than ideal. This makes 5 days now that the flock has remained, though I did not see it Monday or Tuesday. The chances of it remaining for a few days are good in my opinion. Once I get the photos developed, I'll post them.

Good Birding.

Scott Downes
downess at cwu.edu
Ellensburg WA