Sage Thrasher, Robert Moses State Park

 For a while now, there has been a Sage Thrasher on Long Island's south shore.  It was first seen at Smith Point some time ago, then disappeared and if it is the same one, reappeared at Robert Moses.  It seemed everyone else had seen it but me because I wasn't able to get over there some reason or another.  There were many reports that it would hide for hours and when it was visible, would either be out in the open on the ground or hiding in bushes (in the southwest corner of Field 5)  I had a little time Saturday - a quick chance to go see it so I took advantage and hopped in the car..  It had been reported earlier in the morning so I figured I had a good chance.  When I got there it was very windy and no other birder was on the scene.  I assumed I wouldn't be lucky but scanned the bushes with my bins only to find out the bird was right in front of me - eye level in the bushes.  I got a couple photos noting how much it resembles a Mockingbird.  After I got in the car to leave, it came out and was on the ground and didn't seem to care about the wind.  I got a few mote photos which I think came out very well because it was a little cloudy.  I saw another birder looking for it on the other side of the lot by dumpsters so I honked the horn a bunch of times to get his attention and pointed out the bird.  This was a lifebird for me - not the prettiest but still a rarity for Long Island.