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Gone But Certainly Not Forgotten



For those who have a personal interest in the Greer, SC Calliope
Hummingbird, the following remarks are forwarded:

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.

Barbara Gearhart and I visited the Webbs about a week before the
Calliope departed. They were gracious hosts to many intrusive
bird-watchers and clearly devoted to the well-being of this hummer for
the 19 (!) weeks they cared for him.

Wayne Irvin
ephstop@mindspring.com