Today, Friday December 13th, Mom and I chased 2 previously reported rarities: a male White-winged Scoter and a Varied Thrush. Both of these birds are rare in the Denver metro area.
The Scoter had been reported at Chatfield Reservoir at the north boat ramp along the dam. It was a clear and sunny day with wind gusts above 25 mph! We had trouble locating waterfowl because of the strong winds churning up the water. After about 30 minutes of scoping the Scoter flew in from the southeast corner of the reservoir. The Scoter gave us great views from less than 30 yards away.
The Varied Thrush had been seen in someone’s yard in Lakewood off and on for a few days. We missed the bird on Monday but returned today. It was possible to view the Thrush from the street. He was quite skulky and hid in the bushes unless birders remained in their cars.
A great day with 2 rare birds in the Denver Metro area.