ML643256188

Observation details

The first (and likely last?) I've seen this fall out here on the desert slope. On the ground on the pathway on the east side of the pond, then hopping up the concrete stairs at the north end of the path. I assumed it would be a Hermit Thrush (surprisingly, none seen today) but there was no wing or tail flicking and the ventral spotting was not dark and distinct. I got the scope on the bird and confirmed it was a Swainson's -- no contrast between the brownish back and the tail, a fairly broad buffy eyering, and brownish spotting through the breast blending into the brownish flanks. Sona might have gotten photos.