Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Almost had a new bird sighting today

Like many birders, have lists. One is birds I see in my yard -> my favorite list.
Today I almost saw bird # 117 for that list.

I planted tomatoes this morning, and was sitting here with a six pack of Warsteiner to rest. Resting on the deck a new bird showed up. I did not get a photo, but could see it clear enough. The secret to bird watching is to learn how to ID details. Anyone can do it with a little practice and the suggestions in the front of any good bird book. I searched my bird books and discovered it to be a Yellow-billed Cuckoo. I know that seems funny and unusual, but I don't name the birds.

I wrote it in at #117 and was feeling smug.
Then as I put it in the main book, saw I had already recorded it in 2003 outside my bed room window.

Still, it is a rare sighting for me (and most). I need to start a new list of "rare sightings" with dates and photos.

I once ran a mile race and my heart beat was not this high.