ML646691097

Observation details

Eastbound along lakeshore at 08:15, passing low and close over jetty. Initially seen at eye level over the canal, where I had a fantastic binocular view at point blank range. I attempted to photograph the bird as it continued east towards the beach and obtained some poor but diagnostic images (it was raining/sleeting heavily and light was already very dim). It was a small square-tailed swallow with a warm orange rump which contrasted well against the deep bluish mantle. The head and throat of the bird were a dull buffy orange, except for a small dark cap immediately above the eye (forehead, nape, and throat all dull/buff orange). This color continued down the flanks, but the belly of the bird was white. It appeared to be in suspended primary molt as is typical of November vagrant Cave Swallows.