Gonneville - It'* the coloring that is throwing me on that one. I haven't been able to find one like it. The black on it was almost like with the indigo bunting, in that it would take on bluish color if the light hit it just right. Yeah, I've got several books, including Peterson'* (as well as a CD on identification) without luck. The picture was taken last summer, and the brown one (maybe cardinal sized?) showed up this year.

The hawk seems to have characteristics of either a cooper'* or red tail. It'* about owl sized, (not as "stocky") brown back, light colored breast with vertical lines, and yellow claws. Stands pretty upright, tail hanging straight. It'* often hard to get a good look at it as it likes to hide up in the trees.

Venom - I understand how "visiting" weeks can go. If you get the chance, it would be great. If not, not a big deal. I'll PM you my cell phone number in a bit.

Brianj - I know that I'm not gonna touch that comment!

But it was dam funny I'll call ya Tuesday Archon and see whats up, I could use a little time away from the inlaws later Wed. There just so much You can do/talk about with a couple in their eighties. Especially when your a youngster like me.

Yup, it was...and clever. (Don't tell Brian I said that, though. )

i enjoy watching the snow bird travel north for the summer....

does that count?