White-winged Dove
I got a phone call this evening at about 5 o’clock from Don, a former english professor and part-time birder. He told me his son had a White-winged Dove at his feeder. White-winged Doves are birds of the Southwest and Mexico. I think there have only been one or two other sightings for Idaho. I did see one in Idaho Falls a few years ago, but decided to try for this one as well. Don’s son lives in Labelle, about 15 minutes south of Rexburg. I got out there and met Mike, Don’s son, and he let me sit on his deck for a while looking for the Dove. I had a church function at 7 o’clock, so I had to leave no later than 6:40. Around 6:35 I was ready to give up and drive the neighborhood to look for the dove. As I was saying goodbye to Mike the bird flew into the feeder and I got a good look and several decent photographs.
White-winged Dove, Labelle, ID 2006
Hmmm. Don, a former English prof. I think I had a class from him. He used to have a cement contracting business too. I really liked his class… Probably the best English class I ever took.
Boy–timing IS everything! What does the bird feeder contain–looks like black sunflower seeds…
James, I’m sure you’re thinking of the same guy.
Cool – send him my regards. Anyone who teaches college English using Willam Faulkner and Louis L’amour is top shelf in my book. Great guy… Hopefully he is enjoying a wonderful retirement.