The White-eyed Vireo (Vireo griseus) has now been in the garden since at least December 17 and seems reluctant to leave. It has now become quite a celebrity as local birders arrive to add it to their Costa Rica life list. The bird cooperates by appearing in the same little section of trees, on the fence-line with Juan’s property. An added pleasure for me has been the opportunity to meet people who share my enthusiasm for birds, nature in general and Costa Rica specifically.

Today both the weather and the bird were most cooperative, and Wayne Easley, retired pastor and noted ornithologist, was able to take some really beautiful photographs. I am much indebted to him for their use. See and enjoy!

White-eyed Vireo (Vireo griseus), courtesy of Wayne Easley

White-eyed Vireo, a little distracted, turns its head

Wayne was accompanied by Tico daughter-in-law Magda and friend.  Their visit was followed, half an hour later, by a group led by another noted local birder, Herman Venegas, from Tayutic, accompanied by Yurell, Jenny and Cindy. They had to wait a little while but eventually found the bird in the shadiest part of the fence-line. Here’s Herman’s photo:

Herman’s photo of the now famous bird

Thanks to all these nice people (and an errant vireo) I now have invitations to visit several Turrialba-area places that I barely know and I intend to take full advantage as soon as the car is mended.