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English and Scientific names: |
Western Tanager-Piranga ludoviciana
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Number of individuals: |
One adult male in near alternate plumage |
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Locality: LOUISIANA: |
Peveto Woods, Cameron Parish |
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Specific Locality: |
Peveto Woods- I was sitting in the Leonard East bench when I first saw the bird and all four sightings were in the same general area. |
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Date(s) when observed: |
3 May 2006 |
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Time(s) of day when
observed: |
Between 8:30 and 9:15 |
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Reporting observer and address: |
Gary J. Pontiff DeRidder, La. |
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Other observers accompanying reporter who also
identified the bird(s): |
Matthew T. Pontiff |
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Other
observers who independently identified the bird(s) |
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Light
conditions (position of bird in relation to shade and to direction and amount
of light): |
Bright overcast-
lighting was excellent for observation- the bright colors are what first drew
my attention |
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Optical equipment: |
10X42 and 8X42
binoculars and Canon 500mm lens with 1.4X extender on 20D body making an
effective 22X magnification |
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Distance to
bird(s): |
50 to 75 feet |
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Duration of
observation: |
Sporadically for 45
minutes |
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Habitat: |
Coastal chenier heavily damaged by hurricane Rita. The bird stayed in the limited greenery from 15 to 20 from the ground |
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Behavior of bird:
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Bird probably feeding. it popped up for a few seconds then disappeared into the vegetation only to repeat several times |
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Description:
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First noticed bright yellow bird with a red head. I knew what it was before bringing my binoculars up. Then I was able to see the black back, wings and tail. The wing bar was very distinct as was the yellow scapulars. The bird had a yellow rump and a red head and upper neck. The dark eye(black) was apparent and I did not notice the legs feet and bill other than to notice that they were not black. |
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Voice: |
Not observed |
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Similar
species: |
I eliminated molting Summer Tanager- see description. |
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Photographs
or tape recordings obtained? |
Three photographs by
Matthew T. Pontiff clearly making a positive I.D. |
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Previous
experience with this species: |
Have seen three in state and numerous in the western states when I Birded AZ,CO,UT,TX,and NM. I have also handled and banded several while working a MAPS station in Utah. |
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Identification aids: |
before observation: None were necessary after observation: Made out 3x5 card and made notes on observation and looked at Matthew's photos. |
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This description is written from: |
Notes after observation and some memory refreshing which is always nice when you have pictures. |
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Are
you positive of your identification? If not, explain: |
Yes |
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Reporter: |
Gary J, Pontiff
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Date and time:
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26 May 2006-2100 hours |