1978 Walter D. Koenig Melanerpes formicivorus Plague (31 August) #473 and #474 and released. The juvenile, by the way, looked sort of dark on the front of his crown but had no sign of molt yet. Add: Unbanded adult ♂ and 1st yr birds, moved to Plague. No definite sign of a new ♂ was seen here following the demise of ♂361 on or about 11 June until about 13 July, at which time both an ub ♂ and an ub juv. began to be seen regularly. Though ♀157 was roosting alone as late as 25 July, I would put their immigration somewhat about that time: Moved to Plague: 19 July (#2 weeks) 4 September ♀RR #157 seen here today. 5 September 1600. A considerable amount of kanit-cutting here proved to be the 3 birds trying to defend the 2º tree (Which is loaded with nice green acorns) from a myriad of competitors inc. at least several ground squirrels, a Crow, a Band-tailed Pigeon, and more. 11 September 745. Lots of chasing here and fighting over acorns - both inter- and intra-specific. Probably 2-4 intruders here trying to steal acorns as well as numerous scrub jays. So far I haven't been able to see any of the intruders. (I did identify ① ♀RRR #157 and ② ♂calm #473, however.) Most of the activity is along the row of trees by the Upper Barn with a little spilling over to the 2º tree. Ron saw j474 here later today along with several intruders here. 13 September 1400. 2 Newly stored acorns are in the Plague tree. 13 September ♀745. ♀157 in 2º tree; all quiet at the moment. Ron saw all 3 birds here this afternoon (no intruders). Hastings Reservation