ML647282306

Observation details

Originally this bird was found in November near to this location and then relocated on the Dec 14th Gatineau-Ottawa Christmas Bird Count. It has subsequently been seen by many observers. I found the bird in the back lane between Lewis and Waverley Streets. It was heard first and then seen in a deciduous bush where it was preening for a few minutes. Field marks noted: slightly larger size than nearby Black-capped Chickadees; gray back and head; prominent crest; whitish breast; pale salmon colour on the flanks; face was white surrounding a dark beady eye; black on forehead above the upper mandible. Several times it was heard giving nasal calls quite unlike a Black-capped Chickadee call. Eventually it then flew north towards the corner of Lewis Street and Salisbury, but I could not be relocated. The light was extremely flat and weak, but I have one fair photograph this bird, which is a very rare visitor in Ottawa county.