For those interested in a more specific location:
After three hours of searching in pouring rain, I refound the bunting out on Damon Point today.? After meeting her up close and personal, I no longer have any doubt as to her species.? Just like in Stuart's (fantastic) photo, the back is primarily white, marked with grayish stripes highlighted with a touch of the same seventies-reminiscent burnt orange of the cheek patch and crown stripe.? The bird was extremely confiding, chich I suppose should match the disposition of a bird that has undoubtedly seen few humans up to now.? It allowed close views (less than 20' away) for a good five minutes before becoming bored with me.
As you're walking out the spit, about 85% of the way to the end, you'll? notice that the abundant dune grass just peters out for a longish stretch, before resuming in full brown glory just before?land's end.? Right at the point where the thick grass resumes, and on the far north side, is where I found the bird around noon today.? After showing off for a bit, she flew across the bare area, and disppeared in the grass to the west of it.?
This new state bird is exactly the birthday present I was hoping for!
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Jeff Bryant
Seattle
jbryant_68 AT yahoo