[obol] possible PLUMBEOUS VIREO, N. Medford

[Karl Fairchild]

Hi OBOL,

While watching the GOLDFINCHES (AM and LESSER) devouring the thistle 
seed, my coworker and I had a very gray Solitary-type vireo land in our 
cherry tree and forage at near point-blank range for about 1 minute.  
After about 20 seconds, it moved farther back in the tree, which was 
somewhat backlit.  We were both struck by the clear markings on the head 
and contrast with the white throat.  The sides were entirely grayish 
with no greenish tones.  There was a very small amount of yellow right 
at the vent and a barely noticeable yellow wash on the sides of the 
belly.  We could see no hint of buffy tones in the secondary edgings 
which appeared white. There was also no greenish or yellowish wash 
anywhere on the upperparts and very little contrast between the gray of 
the head and the gray of the back.  The head appeared very slightly 
darker.  We could not see any yellow under the wing when it flew, 
either.  We attempted to relocate it on the other side of the yard, but 
were unsuccessful.

While the actual location is a private residence, I will say that the 
bird was seen in the area of Beall Lane, east of HWY 99 and west of 
Table Rock Rd.  We saw it about 2:30 this afternoon and have not seen it 
since.


Good Birding,
Karl