[mou] MOU: ID Help

[Stan & Molly Jo Miller-Johnson]

Sounds like the juvenile Eastern Towhee that I've got hanging out in my yard now.  It has also discovered the goodies and easy pickings under our sunflower feeder....

Molly Jo Miller
Inver Grove Hts, Dakota Co.


-------------Original Message---
Date: Mon, 4 Aug 2008 21:54:25 -0500
From: "Ken or Rebecca Vail" <>
Subject: [mou] ID Help: Dodge Co.
To: "MOU-net" <>
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I consider myself a competent birder and do not often admit to being 
stumped.  But this bird really has me baffled.

This bird is visiting our bird feeder.  I first noticed the bird two days 
ago but only noted its most prominent field mark a long dark tail bordered 
on the sides with white before it disappeared.  On August 4, 2008 my wife, 
Rebecca, managed to get a few digital photos through the window of this 
bird.  I have also taken some film photos (not yet developed) of the bird 
and will supply if desired.

Description:  Oriole-sized bird, dark gray/brown overall with a lighter 
breast, breast heavily streaked, conical grosbeak-like bill, a circular 
white wing patch.  It's most notable field mark is a long dark tail with 
white borders (a long junco-like tail).

Behavior:  Eats the sunflower seed and forages in a shuffle-feet fashion 
typical of towhees and other emberizids.

I attempted to upload a photo to the MOU website but was unable to do so. 
If you would like photos please contact me off-list and I will email them to 
you.

I live in SW Dodge County and will supply detailed directions if this bird 
is determined to be of interest.

Ken Vail
Blooming Prairie 
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