BULLOCKS ORIOLE success! Ash-throated still accounted for.

Bullocks oriole photo provided by Karl Lukens.

The BULLOCKS ORIOLE was seen numerous times by a hand full of individuals at the Hidden Valley Extension this morning. (For directions see previous post by Don Freiday.) The bird was quite skittish and preferred to be in the tangles of porcelain berry rather than sitting out like it's female companions. A number of photos were taken today to be submitted to the NJ records committee. The photo above was taken when the oriole, following the three female Baltimore orioles toward Bayshore Rd., decided to perch momentarily to the delight of the party still present. Other photos may come.

So what do you need to do to see the bird? First, follow the directions to the locations! (By the way, if there is any mention of looking for a "cow" painted mailbox, the mailbox is on the ground and not on the post.) Then, your best bet is to hang by the road side looking in a westerly direction between the road sign, either for 607 or the intersection of 645 and the trail which cuts back through a stand of cedar. The porcelain berry covered vegetation is evident. Then, keep an eye out for either, 2-3 female Baltimore orioles or, a very bright orange bird with a conspicuous amount of white in the wing. Don't be fooled by leaves caught in the tangles. Some are a similar color to the birds and flickering in the wind........you get the point. If you are so inclined to see this bird I'd suggest going first thing in the morning and try to plan to stay as long as you can. Try looking up toward the 607 or 645 sign. The bird was first encountered in the general location this morning. You might be rewarded with excellent views. I have no word at this point that the bird is being seen, or anyone looking for that matter, in the afternoon.

As for other birds of note. This is a message shared with me about the Ash-throated flycatcher being seen on Tuesday 11/27; "I did see the Ash-throated flycatcher yesterday afternoon, about 4pm.
It was across the tracks from Wilson Rd on the north side about 30 yds.
It flew in from across the field while I was searching and landed fairly
close to me, so I had very nice looks as it seemed to be picking buds or bugs
off one of the small trees.

I did not find the western."

Thanks to Warren Cairo for keeping us in the loop about this rarity, evidently still around.