Rustic Bunting Makes Rare Visit

Sun., Jan. 17, 1999

A tiny bird that’s been freeloading at a feeder in Leavenworth is causing a big stir throughout Washington.

A rustic bunting has been a regular sight for six weeks in Connie McCauley’s backyard.

The Eurasian bird is thousands of miles from its normal habitat that ranges from northern Europe to Japan. The only other sightings in Washington were in the Kent area in 1987 and 1989, the Washington Ornithological Society reports.

McCauley said birders from across the state have made arrangements to watch for the bird in her yard.

McCauley said she welcomes serious birders. Call (509) 548-5582.

For information on rare bird sightings, call the Seattle Audubon hotline, (206) 933-1831. For the Inland Northwest call, (208) 882-6195.

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