Team 61 gets lucky, sees Rose-breasted Grosbeak

Dear Emily,

I am the volunteer State data reviewer for the Great Backyard Bird Count. My goal is to keep up with data submissions and try to ensure the accuracy of reports of rare and unusual species, as well as unusually high counts of common species.

Emily, this is an interesting report. Either of these species would be an exciting find. Black-headed Grosbeak has occurred but once in Ohio to our knowledge. The Rose-breasted Grosbeak makes an appearance in winter about every 4 years. And your description seems to point to that species. I would urge every effort be made to obtain a photo. Even a snapshot from a point n shoot or smart phone through the window would likely be enough for incontrovertible documentation. Short of obtaining a photo, a more detailed description of the plumage, and especially the structure of the bird (bill, tail, wings, etc) can serve as a substitute.

How about that! We answered back we are satisfied it is the Rose-breasted Grosbeak, and will make every effort to get a photo. Jan has seen the bird over the last two weeks, mostly in the heavy brush cover in the ravine behind the house. Of course, no one has spent fifteen minutes observing bird feeders before! I believe I am observing a new camera in my future. With a view finder. About 60x, what do you think?

But not for a week or so; tomorrow is my other cataract surgery.