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Selasphorus Hummingbird sp. (Selasphorus)
Comments: Visiting a feeder in Towson, Maryland on December 5, 2004. This young female is either a Rufous or Allen's Hummingbird, one of two western species that are exceptionally difficult to distinguish. Rufous is by far the more expected, as it has a more established pattern of vagrancy to the east coast, and has been documented in the state. Allen's has not yet been recorded in Maryland, but has been discovered in other Mid-Atlantic states. According to Sibley, Allen's is "nearly identical to Rufous; averages slightly smaller with smaller tail and relatively long bill." A key distinguishing field mark is a slightly notched second tail feather (fourth from outside edge) in the Rufous Hummingbird. This bird has been banded by our resident expert, but I understand the final verdict on its species may still be out. I'd be happy to hear anyone's opinion on this bird, as I don't have the expertise or documentation to make the call :)
My thanks to the property owner for letting us visit and enjoy this rare visitor!