FreeLists / va-bird / [va-bird] White-winged Dove in Cape Charles

[Phoebetria@xxxxxxx]

A very birdy weekend in Northampton County was capped yesterday by the 
all-day stay of a White-winged Dove here at the house (1030-1620 hrs).   It 
feed on 
millet on the ground in the side garden, in company with 50+ House Sparrows, 
15+ House Finches, 3 Pine Siskins, a Prairie Warbler, the continuing 
Allen's/Rufous Hummingbird, and 2 Ruby-throated Hummingbirds (ad. male and 
female/imm.). 
  The dove roosted most of the afternoon in the oak and gum trees, where it 
could be difficult to spot when sleeping but was easily studied once located. 
It was a fortuitous thing that so many were out birding on the Shore over the 
weekend; word spread quickly, and 31 birders from all over the state got to see 
the dove and the hummingbirds.   Analysis of photographs (and now extensive 
video by Bob Anderson) suggests that the Selasphorus could be an Allen's 
Hummingbird (only one previous state record).   Several hummingbird banders who 
have 
looked at images say that the extent of wear may favor Allen's and that the 
rest of the features are supportive but not diagnostic.  Banding (and 
measurement of rectrices) will be needed to identify this bird; tentatively, 
banding is 
set for early December, if the bird is still present here.   It's worth 
noting that Cape May has had several Allen's Hummingbirds at this time of year, 
and 
Delaware has had one, I believe.   They have stayed for long periods in their 
respective yards, but of course, the weather at this time of year is usually 
colder, so the warm week may encourage the hummer(s) to move on again.   I 
will not be in town next weekend, but folks are welcome to watch the yard from 
the porch or sidewalk any time.   I have not seen the dove at all today, 
unfortunately (most are one-day wonders); the hummers are all still here.   
Cape May 
currently also has Selasphorus hummers and a White-winged Dove.   

Ned Brinkley
Cape Charles, VA