SAGA OF THE OLD MAN

A new wave of hummers arrived today and fall migration is well underway for many species during this early September day of 2007. I occasionally have birders stop by to check on things.

I met an old man today. I have known him since he was in his prime. I was checking my log at the Land of Ortego - Zalk and over the past 11 years he has stopped by 36 times; usually in the fall and occasionally making an appearance during winter. I guess you could call him a winter Texan. We have had many conversations and occasionally would share a drink, usually something sweet.

I have never seen him drive a car. He just shows up and I can usually hear him fussing about something in the yard. He doesn’t seem to have any possessions, but that does not seem to bother him. He is a spunky old guy and just seems to live for the day. I have been worrying about his health the last 3 years. He seems to be paler each time we meet. I was really worried about him during the winter with the deep snows around Christmas. I did not see him for a month and I was expecting the worst. However, he showed up again in February and said good bye for his spring trip. I have never did figured out where his summer home is.

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IT WAS ESPECIALLY EXCITING SEEING MY OLD FRIEND THIS AFTERNOON. SINCE I BANDED THIS BUFH AS AN ADULT IN NOVEMBER 1997

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