Snow Bunting in San Diego, CA

[AndyB]

The hit streak (for rare birds) continues in San Diego with this weekend's Snow Bunting. I'd love to see a California bird but San Diego is just a little too far for a Snow Bunting:

Photos here: http://vtm.smugmug.com/gallery/8083790_dwYjF/1/526694363_MUbmA#527306267_zhwAN

[sue-o]

Hi Andy,
Will this bird stay the whole summer in the S.D. area before heading back north? I often wondered what happened to the Black and White Warbler I saw in Huntington Beach. This is an aspect of birding I haven't gotten into yet and it's interesting. One of these years I'll get home and be able to chronicle the migrating birds (and possible rarities) on my own 'patch' and start learning something about birds.
Sue

[AndyB]

Hi Sue, it's still there today. It would be quite a surprise if it summered. I would expect it to move on soon but a Snow Bunting in May on the Mexican border is really quite a surprise so who knows what it's got planned.

[sue-o]

Yes, a nice surprise. I wasn't sure if rarities hung around like a normal migrant once they got to their unusual stop. We should be in Panama in about 4 weeks and I was thinking of leaving Peregrine in the marina on the Caribbean side and flying home for a visit. I thought I might have a chance if the bird stayed. I guess if they're lost, they are restless and move along quickly?? Oh well. I'll see plenty of new birds in the next month or so.
Sue