Hi Jeff & all,
I agree with this much from the standpoint of someone who has seen many
dozens of Northern Wheatears, as I guess you have too:
"I see very little similarity of how a N. Wheatear behaves
compared to the behavior of a Rock Wren...."
However it seems worthwhile to recall that the observer stated:
"... this was a first sighting for me ..."
which implies no prior experience with Northern Wheatear behavior, and
hence would have no standard for comparison.
Rock Wrens can sometimes give the impression of a dark, wedge-shaped
cheek patch. They are roughly the same size as wheatears and have
somewhat similar proportions. Their tendency to "do push-ups" could give
the impression of tail-bobbing.
So I think Bob's suggestion is a reasonable one to consider, pending
further info from the observer. The habitat sounds right.
Of course if someone can hike up there and check for Rock Wrens as well
as wheatears, that would be the best way to try to resolve this.
--
Joel Geier
Camp Adair area north of Corvallis
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