Not a VA bird, at least not yet!, but thought this would be of interest
considering all the hoopla surrounding the R-F Falcon.
Mike Boatwright- Amherst VA
Subject: R-F Falcon leaves MA, maybe heading south??
From: Gail Mackiernan <gail AT MDSG.UMD.EDU>
Date: Thu, 26 Aug 2004 08:14:05 -0400
Hi --
The Red-footed falcon on Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, was not seen
after about noon Tuesday, disappointing a lot of birders. The day was
characterized by strong winds and the falcon had been reported making longer
forays that morning
However, it does raise an alert -- if the bird left on its own power (and
wasn't the victim of a mishap), then it would probably be heading south.
Which brings me to the Maryland facet -- birders on Assateague and similar
points should be on the lookout! The bird would probably be pretty
noticeable, larger than a kestrel but with somewhat similar feeding habits
(hovers, catches flying insects on the wing, eats them on a perch), rather
long-winged. Fast but not a dashing Merlin-like flyer. The Massachusetts
bird was molting, and still retained some barred tail and primary feathers
but was fairly uniform gray underneath, with characteristic red thighs (and
feet of course!)
Gail Mackiernan
Colesville, MD
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