This bird is a vagrant in Washington state. A vagrant refers to a bird that has wandered far away from its normal range of travel. Vermilion Flycatchers are normally seen in the lower southwestern U.S., by the Mexican border. They also spread southward into Central and South America. To find one in Washington is a rare sight indeed!
I had heard the bird was around at the refuge (Ridgefield NWR) but I hadn’t yet spotted it (not for the lack of trying!). On Tuesday, Nov. 15, I tried again and this time was successful, thanks to several other Ridgefield photographers who provided tips on where to look. Males of the species are a striking scarlet red over most of their body. The female in comparison is drab but actually quite pretty.
Taken with my Canon 7D, 1/640, f5.6, ISO800, Canon 400mm f5.6L lens.
Beautiful shot of this sweet girl! Has anyone seen a male there yet, that you know of?