A quick Question

E-mail & photos from Jim Martin

Dick:

Is there a possibility that this is copulation - photo #7832? As I took this photo I recall seeing his tail (TM) wrap low behind the female on #1. If this copulation, it occurred on April 3, 0826.

I checked several of my photos of the female where her leg ban(s) were showing. I was certain of a band which was silver/aluminum colored (see attached Pix #7827, largely exploded). With your observation of a blue band that opens up a bunch of questions. In the past three years, the only female (as I recall) with a blue band was the 2005 female on #1. She was also banded with a silver band that June 2005. She was reported as dead in S.A. on her return to Central Ohio. Who is this lady? Where did she come from? Is she the 2005 female without her transmitter (rotted off and survived)? Is TM Two-timing the ladies swapping nest appearances?

I'll be there in the morning (Monday) with camera and spotting scope in tow to see what I can get. I'll report back if I can capture her band(s). If she has two bands - what intrigue! If she is on eggs, it may be a while before were can snap her again.

Jim M.