Early this morning Michael Kiessig and I shoveled walks and prepared
feeding areas at the area behind the Red Rocks Trading Post in
anticipation of the Rosy-Finches. The Golden-crowned Sparrow made
his appearance early and visited the feeders several times. Lots of
birds to watch including White-winged Junco, PS x WW cross, Cassiar,
and several odd looking juncos that appeared to be hybrids plus all
the regulars.
Around 9:45 A.M. (after Michael had left), Tim Smart, Steve Mlodinow,
and I watched a Rosy-Finch flock we estimated to be 125-150 birds
descend on the platform feeder, the area below the lower apple tree,
and the rock wall. They came and went numerous times, often landing
in the tops of the two apple trees, then descending to feed, then
taking off and circling high above and around the Trading Post
before returning to the tops of the trees. As in the past, the flock
consisted of mostly Gray-crowned Rosy-Finches ( with numerous
Hepburn's), some Black Rosy-Finches (10+), and a few Brown-capped Rosy-
Finches (10-). I left about 10:15 A.M., and the Rosy's were still
present. Steve took numerous photos, which I am sure he will post in
the next day or so.
In addition to the Rosy-Finches, we also had 3 male Cassin's Finches
and a Pine Siskin appear about the same time as the Rosy-Finch flock.
My instincts tell me the Rosy's will return tomorrow about the same
time(9:30 - 10:30 A.M.) - they only seem to come to the Red Rocks
feeders when everything is snow covered and there is no bare ground.
Once the south facing slopes melt and things warm up, the Rosy's are
less likely to visit the feeders at Red Rocks. I will have seed out
in the morning tomorrow, but will not be able to visit the feeders on
Monday morning.
Good luck to those looking to see the Golden-crowned or Rosy-Finches.
Mike Henwood
Morrison
Jefferson County
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