ML642792227

觀察細節

***Very rare; continuing 5th US mainland record. After seeing it in the fields near Ahmaogak St a few nights ago, we spent sometime to search for it again, with hopes that EJS could get some better views and we all could enjoy a fuller experience. EJS spotted it first, ERH heard it first, and JAA photographed it first — exactly like the first time we saw it! We first had it winnowing above Saya and Uula St, but it was flying up and putting down all across Browerville. We kicked it up a few more times, including one behind the shorebird house, until this famously fickle bird decided to finally stick to one spot. For the nest 30 minutes, we were treated to the display of a lifetime, as the COSN winnowed — without stop! — for about half an hour, making incessant figure-eights above our heads at the intersection of North Star and Ahmaogak St. All of our previous displays were under 30 seconds, so this whirlwind of energetic fervor was something new for us all. In the end, every sort of documentation was obtained, including videos in flight of the display. Deep, nasally winnowing obviously distinct from sweeter, rising WISN winnow; single outer rectrix used in winnowing, with thinner, more broadly spaced bands diagnostic; largely white underwing and broad white trailing edge to secondaries a solid reaffirmation. We really never wanted to break away from this bird, but we left after a memorable Utqiagvik town encounter, one that may have left a more lasting impression than the snipe (which was still winnowing as we laughed our way home). Photos, audio, video to come