Re: Brown-capped Rosy-Finches confirmed

Posted by Rosyfinch on
URL: http://sandia-crest-birding-forum.18.s1.nabble.com/Brown-capped-Rosy-Finches-confirmed-tp7572897p7572899.html

Although they are the species with breeding grounds nearest New Mexico, the Brown-capped Rosy-finches have had an interesting 10 year cycle of scarcity and abundance, according to banding records at Crest House. This species represented 27% of new captures between 2004 through 2013. In the winters of 2003-2004 and again in 2013-2014 they were absent or nearly so. Their numbers peaked to over 60% in 2007-2010. So it is great to know that they are visiting this winter.

Andy Mayer subsequently described his first-hand experience with banding team members Raymond VanBuskirk and Nancy Cox. We don't need any better proof than this!

Andy Mayer writes (NOV 28):

:). Nancy and Raymond let me hold a brown cap this morning.  Guess they are here!

Andy

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