A Northern Lapwing [ Vanellus vanellus ] was found last Saturday [2/12/05] near Creagerstown, MD, USA.
This is a first record for the state of Maryland and one of about 3 dozen or so records for the north-eastern USA and eastern Canada.
For updates on this bird check the Maryland birding discussion list
http://birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/MDOS.html
Photos and a map of the area where the bird is being seen can be found at
http://www.mdbirds.org/birds/gallery/lapwing.html
Directions:
The main reference point is the intersection of Route 550 and Blacks Mill Road in Creagerstown, Frederick County, Maryland [~ 60 miles from Washington, DC]. This bird has been spending a good amount of time feeding in an area that can be reached by going 0.75 mile north of this intersection to a right turn on Graceham Road then 0.4 mile north on Graceham Road on the east side of the road close to a fence with a little snow remaining. However the bird seems to move around quite a bit too. There is good habitat in all directions.
Dalcio
They are great birds when they are common. I've often thought they'd made a stupendous vagrant. Enjoy!
Good luck!
A bit surprising it has turned up this winter, usually they turn up in the US in response to severe cold this side, but this winter has been very mild (a slight touch of frost this morning was only the third frost of 2005)