While driving west from wilderness road to killdeer plains in search of whimbrel (sadly not seen), we stopped at the Mifflin Rest Area on Rt. 30 near Mansfield.  While enjoying our picnic lunch, we observed what we thought was a flycatcher catching bugs from a nearby snag.  When I walked over to within 20 yards of the tree to get a better look, I was a bit shocked to find myself looking at what appeared to be a western kingbird.  It had a very light gray, almost white throat and breast and a very bright yellow belly.  Equally important, it showed no rufous in the tail or the wings.  
     I went back, very quickly, to get my birding colleagues, and camera, but, unfortunately the bird flew further away, and did not again provide good looks.
     Realizing how unlikely this sighting really is, I have not yet reported it to ebird, not wanting the birding police to come and confiscate my binoculars.  However, I am about to risk that, and will endure the skepticism that will follow.  
    Anyway, if you happen to be traveling west on Rt 30, and need a break, stop at this rest stop and look around.  I am 99% certain this was a western kingbird.  Just spent a week in Arizona where we saw many of these birds.  Seeing one in Ohio was a much bigger treat. 
     


Joe Faulkner 
Somerset, Ohio
Perry county
Sent from iPad
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