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Fwd: SC Calliope - Farewell




>
>Here is the promised note with the departure date.  We last saw him at 8:00
>PM on Saturday, April 15, 2000.  He flew in and fed at the feeder in the
>corner of the house, then dove into his wall planter - as he had done for
>many previous nights - although this was the latest time of day ever for his
>final feeding.  Saturday was stormy, as had been Friday and Thursday - and he
>had been very close by all three days.  Sunday dawned as a magnificent, clear
>and windless day, and we were up a little later than usual - but before 8 AM.
> We never saw him - though we watched constantly for some time.
>
>Interestingly, our first Rubythroat of the season had arrived on Monday
>evening, April 10 - as a bolt out of the blue,  startling the Calliope away
>from what had been his own feeder for months.  There were a few encounters
>during the week - alternating winners - and one of which was captured on
>video.  On Tuesday morning, a female Rubythroat made a single appearance at
>the feeder, then apparently moved on.  The Calliope and the male Rubythroat
>began alternating times at the feeders, and skirmishes greatly diminished as
>the week passed.  On Sunday AM, (4-15),   the Rubythroat made three
>appearances that we observed, then, he too, apparently chose to move on.
>Sunday night was a clear, bright, moonlit night  with full moon waxing.
>
>The Calliope had developed a beautiful rosy , spiked gorget which was showing
>more change every day.  The last three days were sunless, so the gorget
>primarily showed as black - but we both had several good looks earlier in the
>week at a stunning, almost grown up, valiant little bird in his glory.  We,
>and I'm sure, the many lovely folk who have watched him with us over the
>months, wish him well. Our thanks to all of you who have shown interest, and
>provided us information and support through this amazing experience.  The
>Calliope was first seen on Saturday, December 4, 1999,  making his visit with
>us a total of 19 weeks.
>
>  Heads up, everybody - he's out there somewhere!
>
>Best wishes,
>Charles and Judy Webb
>Greer, S.C.
>

Susan M. Campbell
Whispering Pines, NC

ncaves@utinet.net