20-Minute Wonder

Yes, he was only here briefly, and yes, he only allowed for one quick photo through a hazy window... but Alan and I were thrilled to see this male Varied Bunting at our bird feeder on Wednesday! When we lived in Guadalupe Canyon, they were a frequent sight in the summer, and we followed the saga of their nesting, including one poor harried male pursued by a begging juvenile cowbird. But here in Portal they are much scarcer, and this male is the first we've seen in our yard.

Male Varied Bunting in Portal AZ

(Photo by Narca)