Western finch surprises NY birders
Normally found in the mountains of the west, the Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch is a very rare find in eastern North America. FeederWatcher Nancy Loomis of Booneville, New York, was thrilled to host only the second confirmed Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch ever seen in the state. Understandably, Nancy could not identify the bird when it first appeared at her feeders. She snapped a photo and posted it on the Cornell Lab of Ornithology facebook page for identification. Over the next few days, Nancy hosted many eager bird watchers who would normally have to travel thousands of miles for a chance at seeing this species.
Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch at the home of Nancy Loomis, Booneville, NY. Photo by Jay McGowan.
A rare find in New York - the Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch. Photo by Jay McGowan.
Thanks, Nancy, for keeping watch and for opening your home and sharing this rare find with other birders!
For more information about the Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch, see the species account on All About Birds.
Wow. That was excellent. The photos are great and the fact that you used Cornell was a super idea. I usually do it the opposite. Now I think I will do it your way. Seems with photos so easy to do and send, why not?
No dates?
These photos were taken on March 6th and the bird was only there for a few days (it was gone by the weekend).
In early July of 2012 we spotted this bird at our feeder in NorthWest Ohio. It stayed less than a week but we will continue to watch for its return. Thank You for the info.