The IBRRC, a 501c3 non-profit, is the world's leading first responder bird rescue organization and has saved countless birds from the devastating effects of hundreds of oil spills, including the Exxon Valdez, Apex Houston and MV Treasure disasters. 501c3 non-profit and donations fund our wildlife rehabilitation programs.

THE AUCTION INCLUDES:
The one-of-a-kind 17x14-inch X-Ray. No copies will be, or have been, reproduced.
A letter of authenticity.
Please note: All image rights to the Alien in the Duck X-ray will be transferred to the buyer subject to the IBRRC's reservation of rights to utilize the image from the X-ray in materials it produces to publicize its activities, including but not limited to displays on its website, advertising media and promotional goods and materials.
Winning Bidder pays $15.95 Express Mail Shipping (insurance additional)

THE STORY BEHIND THE X-RAY:
On Sunday, May 21st, an adult male mallard was brought to the International Bird Rescue Research Center (IBRRC), with what appeared to be a broken wing. Since 1971, the IBRRC has been rescuing birds from the devastating effects of oil spills around the world. Marie Travers, assistant manager of the center, radiographed the mallard and was immediately shocked by what was revealed on the x-ray.   A very clear image of what appeared to be the face, or head, of an extraterrestrial alien was in the bird's stomach.

The IBRRC staff discussed if an alien life form was either consumed by or trying to communicate with the people of Earth through the duck, because the center is located in an area of California known for its mysterious crop circles.

Karen Benzel, Public Affairs Director for IBRRC noted that the symmetry of the alien's face is perfect, with an intense grimace, as if it was in anguish after being eaten.   "Since aliens are notoriously short, reports are they are usually no more then 3-feet tall, we initially thought the small proportions of the face meant the duck had consumed a juvenile extraterrestrial being," Benzel quipped.   "We immediately knew this was something we had never seen before in our 35 year history."

But, is it the face or head of an alien?   Regrettably, IBRRC reports the duck succumbed to its injuries and passed away quickly, quietly, and peacefully after the x-rays were taken, and not from the alien bursting through the duck's chest in classic gory Hollywood style.   IBRRC personnel were ultimately unable to determine what caused the startling image.   Was it an alien channeling through the duck or an anomaly similar to the "Face on Mars," discovered by the Viking Lander when it orbited the Red Planet in 1976?   No one knows.   What is known is the one-of-a-kind x-ray, which measures 17" x 14", will be sold on eBay along with a certificate of authenticity.   All of the proceeds will go towards funding IBRRC's rehabilitation programs. A necropsy was done by UC Davis veterinarians and showed the stomach had some grain in it, but no alien.  

Jay Holcomb, Director of IBRRC, states "IBRRC is a 501c3 non-profit and donations fund our wildlife rehabilitation programs .   Proceeds from the sale of this one-of-a-kind x-ray will go towards funding our continuing efforts to rescue and rehabilitate oiled, orphaned and injured waterfowl and aquatic birds."

Established in 1971, IBRRC is the world's leading first responder bird rescue organization and has saved countless birds from the devastating effects of hundreds of oil spills, including the Exxon Valdez, Apex Houston and MV Treasure disasters.

The IBRRC manages two centers in California, one located in Cordelia and the other in San Pedro.   For more information about their programs, or to make a donation, please visit the IBRRC website at http://www.ibrrc.org or good luck bidding on the Alien in the Duck X-Ray.

The above and below images show the Alien in the Duck X-Ray in greater detail.

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On May-29-06 at 13:46:43 PDT, seller added the following information:

We're grateful for the incredible response to this Charity Auction, thank you everyone for your interest and bids.

Please be aware, this is a real auction in where the funds will go to a very worthy cause.   The IBRRC is very appreciative to receive so much positive press from the world media, including CNN, FOX, the Associated Press, etc., and thank God it did not involve another oil spill.

Do to the overwhelming response to this auction we have to insist on adding the following terms.

1 – You're bid is a legal and binding contract.   If you bid, win the auction and then renege, we will legally come after you within the limits of the law.

2 – If you want to bid on this item, you have to have a minimum eBay score of 50 in order to do so.   Anything score less then 50 will force us to cancel your bid(s).

3 – You must ask us for permission to bid.   You will receive a reply as quickly as possible.

4 – If you bid without permission, you will be emailed to verify your bid amount.   If you do not answer in 60-minutes, your bid will be retracted and you will be reported to eBay as a Shill Bidder.

5 – If you have already placed a bid with NO intention of following through on this auction, we ask that you immediately retract your bid.  

Thanks for your understanding.   We're grateful to everyone who wants to see this auction succeed in order for the IBRRC to continue it's work.

Thanks.

EBay seller: Starship329 (starship328@mindspring.com)

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On May-30-06 at 11:47:43 PDT, seller added the following information:

At 9:54 a.m. PST, we've ‘maxed-out' eBay's ability to continue our Q & A Blog on this auction – seems we're limited to only 100 reply postings and I have answered a measly 101 emails.   I am getting about 100 emails per day, so far, and this auction has only really just started.   (I wish eBay would change this policy to allow an unlimited number of Blog postings on all auctions).

The bulk of the inquiries are from well-wishers and emails are running about 90% VERY positive, offering IBRRC.org very warm-hearted praise and good luck.   The rest are comical in nature - they're cracking me up with all of the various conspiracy theories, and good-natured ribbing.   What I cannot understand are those who have to write such hateful email slamming this auction, the organization behind it and its good work... but, hey, this is a free country and how would you ever really appreciate love and charity if you didn't have hate and selfishness? Right?

So, here's what we're gonna do. Every evening for the duration of this auction I will (forego my life), post the the Good, Bad, and the Ugly emails and as many replies, as possible - or until I collapse - in a effort to keep this popular 'Close Encounters of the Bird Kind Blog' going. So, if you want to write or comment, please do. But note, I will be posting your eBay 'handle' along with you comments. So, if you're a hater and I post your rancid diatribe, be prepared for a potential backlash from those other eBayers, unlike me, who won't tolerate your guano.

Thanks again.

Christopher (aka: Starship328)

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On May-30-06 at 11:55:30 PDT, seller added the following information:

On May 30, 2006, at noon PST and 3 p.m. EST, watch MSNBC's program, 'THE MOST,' for the current news and updates on the Alien in the Duck X-Ray eBay Auction, with the lovely and talented Alison Stewart hosting. Also on the same date and network, be sure to watch the equally lovely and talented Keith Oberman, on COUNT DOWN WITH KEITH OBERMAN at 5 p.m. PST and 8 p.m. EST, who will also report on this 'Close Encounter of the Bird Kind' eBay auction. (Thanks, Keith, big fan).

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On May-30-06 at 15:09:28 PDT, seller added the following information:

At the request of eBay, The IBRRC.org hereby complies with the request to validate this Charity Auction and its management by eBay trading assistant Starship328.

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On May-30-06 at 16:53:38 PDT, seller added the following information:

For those of you who have been following the bidding on this item and have emailed me wondering why the bidding has taken a massive roller coast ride, from $7100.00 at 8 a.m. PST to $45,100.00 at about 1 p.m., back down to under $5000.00 at 4:30 p.m. PST, here's the story.

Today I had to clear a large number of bids made those individuals who only sought to over-inflate the auction price of the Alien in the Duck X-Ray.   At one point today, a bogus and malicious bidder spiked the price at $45,100.00:   $100.00 more then the second highest bogus and malicious bidder who set his high-bid to $45,000.00.  

After emailing, calling and paging the bidders on this auction in order to verify their bids, none replied.   Therefore, they were cancelled.   I am still in the process of ‘cleaning house,' if you will.  

Bogus Bidders screw with high-profile auctions in an effort to drive traffic from our heavily-visited auction to their eBay account so you can check out the stuff they're trying to sell.   What happens when bogus and malicious bidders do this to high-profile charity auctions, they create a great deal of ill-will against them, PLUS their account is flagged by eBay for (guess what?): bogus and malicious bidding - which is against eBay policies.

Please respect the fact that this is a charity auction that supports a tremendous endeavor, driven by very passionate and dedicated people.   Thanks!

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On May-30-06 at 16:55:21 PDT, seller added the following information:

Sorry, Keith, it's Olberman, not Oberman!

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On May-30-06 at 19:18:09 PDT, seller added the following information:

The 'CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE BIRD KIND' BLOG Continues at 7:15 p.m., May 30, 2006.
Here now the winner of the 'Too Much Free Time On My Hands' award-of-the-day.

Instead of actually reading the auction text, where all the answers are readily available, this individual spent probably 60-minutes on this Dissertation.

17. I came across your auction and personally think that if you can get a good financial return on this x-Ray for the specified cause (IBRRC) I believe it to great. I’ve read through some of the questions and comments and believe some of the negatives are out of pure jealousy because you have something that has attracted so much attention and an apparently high monetary value. In regard to you personally I believe it not to be very wise that you have felt the need to fabricate a story in your description as if it is really is an alien in this duck’s stomach due to digestion or an alien channeling through the duck. I know you probably meant most of this to be a bit of a joke & entertainment, but you make no mention of the fact that the alien image is most probable to be nothing more than an anomaly in the internal organs of the duck that came through on the x-ray, which is more prudent conclusion.
From: lchoward (721) Respond | Delete May-30-06

18. I noticed you added some notes to the auction which includes the comment… If you bid, win the auction and then renege, we will legally come after you within the limits of the law. You are trying to protect yourself from a reneging bidder though you are failing to specify in your auction the sensible conclusion as to why the anomaly appeared in the x-ray. By not specifying in the auction that the alien image is no more than an anomaly in the x-ray you risk legal ramification or litigation yourself for assuming that whoever purchases the x-ray is aware it’s not really an alien.
From: lchoward (721) Respond | Delete May-30-06

19. You should take precautions because you are intending that potential bidders believe that it is really an alien in the belly of this duck with no mention that it is likely just an anomaly within the ducks internal organs. My advice would be for you to talk to an attorney and before you make threat to a potential reneging auction winner you realize that you’ve left the most relevant fact out of your auction description as to what really caused this anomaly in the x-ray. Your auction write-up might be cute & humorous to draw curiosity, but leaving out the most sensible conclusion to what caused the anomaly makes you liable to legal action as an auction winner reneging on payment. I hope you fetch a great price for the auction, but you might want to protect yourself considering how high this auction has gotten in value. I’m just trying to make a point and support your auction 100%. I believe it’s great that you are raising money for a cause.
From: lchoward (721) Respond | Delete May-30-06

20. Is your auction part of a conceived s-c-a-m to raise money?? How hard would it be to open that duck up, plant an alien look-a-like toy or figure & sew the duck back up and take the X-ray giving the appearence of an alien. Not too hard from what I understand. Something is starting to smell mighty fishy considering the idea of putting the x-ray on eBay came up so soon after the apprent find. It's sounding more and more like a well devised scheme the more I read & hear people talk. Just like they found out a woman put a finger in a bowl of Chili at Wendy's so she could file a lawsuit I believe that it will be just as possible to find out if a someone planted an alien toy figure in a duck to raise cash on eBay under false pretenses. Not sure if you are listing this for someone else, but I'd be careful. This is only my opinion, but this is looking very peculiar. I hope you post this comment. If not it would be a red flag.
From: lchoward (721)

Here's a flag for you: Thanks for making me laugh outloud with every sentence.

Cheers,
Christopher
Starship328

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On May-30-06 at 19:21:12 PDT, seller added the following information:

The 'CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE BIRD KIND' BLOG Continues on the evening of May 30, 2006.

From: nhappel (25): As a nurse who sees the value in helping others, I also commend your dedication to this under-appreciated but essential cause. It saddens me that anyone could berate those who are helping out. I'm sure that the same arrogent individuals who are applauding their own efforts at supporting their respective causes spend thousands on items that they deem important, none of which benefit anyone else. You and your organization deserve everything that you make and more. What can be more valuable than hlping someone or something in need? The world would be a better place if there were more people like you and the other members of your organization. Thank you.

Thanks very much for taking the time to sit and write such a heartfelt note, we're very grateful. We appreciate the recognition.

Cheers,
Christopher
Starship328

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On May-30-06 at 19:39:02 PDT, seller added the following information:

The 'CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE BIRD KIND' BLOG Continues on the evening of May 30, 2006.

Emails from around the world.

SEEN THIS ON THE NEWS THIS MORNING IN TULSA OKLAHOMA.
From: pacer2320

Just wanted to say Hi from Brisbane, Australia - you've made all the major news bulletins here & around the country. Good luck with the auction. We watch with interest.
From: flashnang (36)

Saw it all the way in VA.
From: mostultimateauctions (0)

Hi there. Just wanted you to know that we are going to be talking about this on the popular Power Mix Online Radio tonight found exclusively at WOOHOOMYSTERYMAN. Best Internet Radio! Thanks and Goodluck! -WooHooMysteryMan
From: woohoo_mystery_man (522)

Bless you for the work you do. Live close to a Sea Bird sanctuary ... lots of hard, heart-breaking work you do.
From: 3dwealth (31)

Hi, This is from 2 guys in Tennessee. We want to know is this for real or is this quaked-up? Hope you make tons of $$$$$$$$$$.
From: tapbyj (562)

Great auction, great cause! I love animals, especially the tasty ones! ;) Good luck and a big Bronx cheer to all the haters!
From: paisanna (6)

Ahhhh.... 'The Pandemic' has alien ties! Way to Represent the IBRRC and the 94585 ZIP (Fairfield, Cordelia, Suisun???? Another well constructed governmental cover-up!). It's about time that area got a little 'exposure'. BTW: Did you know that when a very large, secretive, state agency moved to that area, they dubbed it Area 51? Coincidental? I think NOT.... GL with the auction!
From: tacofish (26)

Cheers,
Christopher
Starship328

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On May-31-06 at 12:02:27 PDT, seller added the following information:

Cheers,
Christopher
Starship328

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On May-31-06 at 23:01:53 PDT, seller added the following information:

The 'CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE BIRD KIND' BLOG Continues on the late evening of May 31, 2006.

This email came into me today from IBRRC.org director, Jay Holcomb. Just thought everyone would be interested in knowing what was happening at the 'Center' around the time the Alien in the Duck X-Ray was discovered.

Christopher, OK!  You needed something real to get you through the day.  These are baby Bitterns that our staff is raising. They were actually hatching as we did all the press about the x-ray last week.   They are the real aliens.  I told Karen that we should consider doing some kind of press thing with these to heighten the interest as if that is even needed at this point.  They really look like they are from outer space.  They are a week old.  (as of May 31, 2006).
Catch you later.  Jay

Even though we lost the poor duck that revealed the Alien X-ray in its gullet, new life was created. Thought you'd appreciate a look behind the scenes.

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On May-31-06 at 23:29:37 PDT, seller added the following information:

The 'CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE BIRD KIND' BLOG Continues on the late evening of May 31, 2006.

These are a few emails that came in over the course of the last 24-hours.

Only in California? Perhaps, but the point is that you're raising money for a good cause and that the duck's broken wing and subsequent death were not in vain. I hope that in addition to whatever tidy sum this auction brings in, you'll see a spike in donations as well. I know I checked out the IBRRC site as a result of the news stories and eBay auction and I'll be making a donation - just hope others will do the same. I also appreciate your responses to the comments sent by haters and the folks who can't read/spell/put together a coherent comment/sentence!!! Keep up the good work on all accounts!!
From: drawdog5 (1)

Who let the Drawdogs out? Thanks! Glad they did. ;-) We're grateful for any donation of any amount. Thanks again! Christopher

What on Earth (or Mars) will everyone do when this auction is over? Everyone will go through quack withdrawl! Love your humor and good luck!
From: mytwocurlsandme (180)

Thanks very much... Thank God this auction started after American Idol ended otherwise we'd have no press or web traffic AT ALL! Thanks, Christopher

You know what would probably make more $$? an x-ray of a duck head inside an alien...
From: zippclicko (61)

We've had a team out in the crop circle fields looking for that alien since May 21st. - Thanks, Christopher

Let's not lose sight of the fact that the poor duck didn't survive. I heard about this auction on the news in Dallas, TX and had to see it for myself. Glad I did. I just went to IBRRC's website and made a small contribution. I'm glad I can contribute through my Paypal acct! Made it simple!Maybe others will help out too. Good luck and I hope y'all raise lots of money!
From: jd1214mjd1214 (155)

Thanks very much for your consideration - we're very grateful. Christopher

your pathetic.... run and tell....sad..... really sad.... Half digested duck food is not an alien... stop ripping off stupid people.... They cant help themself.... Charitable or not... your ripping someone off complain again ... I dont really care....
From: imprezablue (8)

Thanks from imprezablue... the Hater.

Good luck on your auction. I represent the HANSO FOUNDATION we want to purchase your auction and the Gary Troup signed Pop Art. We think Gary and the duck both escaped from our island research center. Thank you and Namaste.
From: santaclaus1929 (9)

Thanks for the kind words. As I have emailed many a hater before: It is best to keep you mouth shut and be thought a fool then to open it and remove all doubt. Thanks for the support. Namaste back at ya' Christopher

Hi, Did you know that is not the head of an alien but the head of the -Iron Maiden- mascot Eddie? He appears everywhere! lol, seriously though, it does look like Eddie!! That is so dam cool! You should contact Steve Harris from Iron Maiden and show him that, It would look nice on his mantle i'm sure, plus he would be doing the animals a favor! Rock on bro!
From: ancientpalace (65)

As a recovering 80's heavy metal musician (who happens to own a few Iron Maiden albums), you have made a valid observation. Possibly! Thanks! Rawk on, Dude! Thanks very much! Christopher

do you have nothing better to do than sit around and sell a duck with somthing abnormal in =, because thats just sad.
From: soccerandrew18 (0)

soccerandrew18 is a newbie with a score of (0). First impressions mean everything. This was not a good one. With comments like that, he's destined to be a (0) for a long time to come. THAT'S sad, but possibly his destiny. Christopher

Hi! I think it's awesome that you're doing this charity auction, what a worthy cause! I saw this story on the news a few nights ago, and when I saw this auction thanks to the ebay group Funny Hysterical Listings and Policies I sent the link to the local NBC and Fox channels - I hope it will help get you more publicity and good luck! --Karen
From: kramer575 (20)

Thanks for the extra help in promoting our efforts, the time you took to do so is greatly appreciated. Thanks very much. Christopher

Now that I've read all your stuff I am glad that this is a charity auction-but seriously-this is what it takes to help a nature charity? When you're done with these foolish people you will find my first comments- first reaction- shock after seeing the news story-I believe my email asked what you stuffed in the duck- but if you would accept my humble charitable contribution to your foundation-please email me back and I will be happy to help your worthy cause. I am an environmenalist and appreciate what you're up against-but I simply can't remortgage my house to pay for a weird duck Xray-you understand. friends? carrie
From: westwardwriter (94)

Friends, yes. Of course. Thanks! Christopher

Apparently there are people out there who just don't know how to have a good time! Who cares if it is real or not. You are supporting a charity...isn't that really what this auction is all about. If I had 5g's I would send them to you and thank you for the unusual picture that would then be hung on my wall. Really people, who cares if it is real or not. Help the charity. Good luck with the auction I will be watching it! Great story! heard it in Rantoul, IL.
From: ericammm (169)

I had to Mapquest Rantoul... I learned something today. Thanks very much for writing. Christopher

Well...I have ultimetly come to this conclusion. PEOPLE CANT READ. If you properly go through and read the discription of the exray it infact does say that a nacropsy was done and that it reaveled it was grains inside the duck. This is great cause here and people have nothing better to do than complain about it. do you have so little in your lives that you worry about what people do in the world to make a difference. Its nice to se people giving their share of money to birds and any animal that needs help. If I had funds Id be in there as well. Great job and kick azz with this auction!!!!
From: ptstacey1051 (16)

Thanks for the endorsement. Very kind words. Kicking azz and taking names. ;-) Christopher

BEST EMAIL FO THE DAY, MAY 31, 2006: Even though I am not a conspiracy theorist, I refuse to believe that you have failed to contact the Dept of Homeland Security or the CIA to find out if it was one of their stealth-spy ducks gone missing... on the other hand, I suppose that now you've x-rayed it they can't much say a word without claiming some sort of plausable deniability. Good luck and I do so hope that the men-in-black don't come to clean up after themselves with that cool flashie-pen-thing they have! Mad Max
From: corseted6q8q (124)

I hope those Men in Black show up with that cool flashie-pen-thing they have and wipe my mind clear of all the work I've done to maintain this auction and Blog. Thanks! Great email - best of the day. Christopher

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On Jun-01-06 at 18:05:04 PDT, seller added the following information:

The 'CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE BIRD KIND' BLOG Continues on the evening of June 1, 2006.

IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING BIDDING: PLEASE READ.

This auction has been hit with a significant amount of Malicious Bidding by eBayers whose sole intent is to do nothing else but disrupt a Charity auction. I've cancelled a signficant number of bids from ten Malicious Bidders and blocked their accounts. Two Malicious Bidders had their ebay accounts cancelled as a result of their stupidity. The two eBayers who lost their accounts spiked the bidding up to $45,000 and $50,000 as a means to drive traffic from this auction to their auctions or to their commercial web sites outside of eBay. One of the eBayers had a perfect Feedback Score of 100% on 768 transactions since November 1999. But I guess he saw an opportunity to get greedy by trying to direct traffic to his commercial web site from this auction - a major violation of policy - and it cost him his eBay account.

eBay policy regarding bidding states, "...buyers are not permitted to place bids or purchase items with the primary intent of disrupting a listing. Sellers are permitted to exclude bidders at any time prior to the listing close and are free to cancel unwelcome bids. After a seller has cancelled a bid, the bidder may not place a new bid without the seller's permission.

Violations of this policy may result in a range of actions, including:
Listing cancellation
Limits on account privileges
Account suspension (we've seen it happen twice).
Forfeit of eBay fees on cancelled listings
Loss of PowerSeller status

If you're interested in bidding on this auction, or learning more about bidding, please refer to the following eBay guidelines found at this link: http://pages.ebay.com/help/policies/unwelcome-buying.html

Thanks very much!
Cheers,
Christopher

 

 

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On Jun-03-06 at 01:05:15 PDT, seller added the following information:

The 'CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE BIRD KIND' BLOG Continues on the early a.m. of June 3, 2006.

This is probably going to be the second-to-the-last Blog of this auction. Thanks for everyone for such positive emails. Overall, the outpouring of support has been overwhelming, but I am still amazed at some people who take the time to A) don't read or comprehend the complete story behind this auction and then B) have the desire and nerve to write such hateful and venomous, nonsensical emails.

For the record, I am posting just a few of the handful of hateful emails as an example of what we've been dealing with from, thankfully, a very small portion of the - approximate - 320 emails received since the start of this auction on Sunday, May 28, 2006, at 3 p.m.

Received June 2 - I would like to ask something what if when yoiu guys do the autopsy and nothing appears i will fell sorry for the person that pay to much for a X-ray of a ALIEN in a duck probably it is for a good cause but still i think that it is pretty barn stupid but hey wish you the best luck ever and however wins the auction YOU ARE DUMB!!
From: samus8588 (10)

Obviously, another example of EWA - Emailing While Intoxicated. Thanks for sending in one of the most incoherent emails of the auction. BTW, the spellchecker is usually found under the 'Edit' pulldown menu. (Just a suggestion... you might want to consider using it next time), Christopher

Received June 2 - I HOPE YOU ARE NOT PETA OR US HUMANE SOCIETY WACKOS
From: lphfarm (464)

Nope, just regular wackos with day time jobs and a lot of commonsense to know when not to humiliate ourselves online... Sincerely, The Head Wacko, Christopher

 

 

 

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On Jun-03-06 at 01:19:51 PDT, seller added the following information:

The 'CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE BIRD KIND' BLOG Continues on the early a.m. of June 3, 2006.

Here are two pictures submitted by Jay Holcomb, IBRRC.org Director, on June 2, 2006. Jay writes, "Here is the "alien" of the day.  This one is a 2 week old baby Black Crowned Night Heron!  It is mean and feisty."

Additionally, Jay has sent me the the following story and several pictures of baby Barn Owls

We are working with Vianca Winery in Napa to help them document the many barn owls that live on their property. We are doing this by banding baby and adult barn owls while they are still in the nest boxes.

Barn owls feed on rodents and use vineyards and adjacent fields to feed. They are a free and effective method of rodent control. It is estimated that they eat 1.5 times their weight rodents each day and that a barn-owl family of two adults and six young may eat as many as 1,000 rodents during a nesting period. Vianca Winery is contributing to a population of birds that is under great pressure from urban sprawl, agriculture and other human activities by providing nesting boxes that encourage the propagation of this species. Vineyards are perfect sites for barn owl nest boxes as these are the areas where barn owls naturally forage.

The main reason to band barn owls is that in the event that an owl is found dead or alive, the band provides the only record of the birds past. If these nest boxes are contributing to the conservation of this species then that is important to record. Most importantly it is a non-invasive, environmentally friendly forms of rodent and pest control.

This winery has preserved a 100 acre marsh also and are very environmentally conscious. Nice people. So, we are helping to document the great conservation efforts by banding these little owls!

 

 

 

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On Jun-03-06 at 12:25:02 PDT, seller added the following information:

The 'CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE BIRD KIND' BLOG Continues on June 3, 2006, 11:40 a.m.-ish.

Can you feel the HATE? I mean, can you? I still can't get over the fact that people take a lot of their time to prove their ignorance. Am I annoyed being on the receiving end of their rancid rants? Nah. The best revenge is always to leave such people to their own devices...

Received June 3 - There would be no reason to be a Shill Bidder on an auction like this. Reporting people is silly and looks bad on you aswell. The shilling only helps you. So why report someone? I did it once, and my auction was pulled and i had to go through a lot of crap. Save yourself the trouble, because ebay pulls most auctions that are suspected in shill bidding. Charity or not, they'll pull it.
From: 00torsion00 (410)

When all else fails, please refer to the fact that, AS CLEARLY STATED, this auction has been hit with MALICIOUS bidders who only want to disrupt this charity auction. Shilling only HELPS? You did it once? To your own auction? And you admit that? Sheesh... No wonder it was pulled. Hey, when you're not writing incoherent emails to other eBayers, search eBay for a glass belly button, buy it and use it. It will help you see the following eBay regulation clearly the next time your head is up your... http://pages.ebay.com/help/policies/unwelcome-buying.html Christopher

June 3 - How is it the word gizzard does not show up in your auction description? Do you really think people just know out of hand that this is all a joke and that the image is just an illusion created by the random arrangement of gizzard stones? I think your interest in making money for you bird rescue center has made you all very unscrupulous. I only hope the winner of your auction is a true philanthropist that understands the truth of this matter and not some poor fool who can ill afford it.
From: mlselby (44)

Is your eBay handle 'mlselby' short for "Miserably" or "Miserable?" Just wondering... I mean, it would make sense and be very apropos to your 'scintillating' personality. Christopher

June 3 - Are you bored or just stupid?
From: cardhussluh (226)

Neither, and I don't think this auction is stupid, nor do I think I could ever get bored of pointing out the stupidity of your boredom level where you feel that to better fill up your empty days - when not buying basketball cards - you have to write such ignorant emails to other eBayers. Christopher

 

 

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On Jun-03-06 at 12:33:29 PDT, seller added the following information:

The 'CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE BIRD KIND' BLOG Continues on June 3, 2006, afternoon.

This just in from Jay Holcomb, IBRRC.org Director:
Here is your 'alien' of the day.  It is a small baby snowy egret that came from Santa Rosa.  We get many of them each summer when they fall from nests in their colonies.  Usually when there is a lot of wind.  Why does everything look alienish to me now?  The truth is that we have always commented on how some of these babies look like aliens.  So, I guess we're always being “visited”!

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On Jun-03-06 at 13:19:17 PDT, seller added the following information:

The 'CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE BIRD KIND' BLOG Continues on June 3, 2006, afternoon.

I'd just like to say thanks to everyone who took the time to write some really positive and encouraging emails. I appreciate it very much, Christopher

June 3 - Just saw your story on ABC news. Did you ever think this would create so much hoopla? As far as all the negative comments, these people are miserable about everything, anyway. Good luck with your auction and the work you do!
From: storminby (214)

Well, regarding the press coverage... I had no clue it would snowball to these proportions... and it will probably be even more overwhelming when the auction closes in a transaction... "I'm ready for my close-up now, Mr. DeMille..."
Very Best, Christopher

June 3 - HI CHRISTOPHER, FIRST OFF, I HOPE YOU MAKE A BUNDLE. YOUR ORGANIZATION IS TOPS IN MY BOOK. I REMEMBER THE EXXON VALDEZ WELL. THANK GOD THERE ARE GROUPS LIKE YOU GUYS!! I LOVE BIRDS, AND THIS YEAR, FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 20 YEARS, I WAS ABLE TO BUY A BIRD BATH, BIRD FEEDER AND BIRD HOUSES. OUR LAST CAT, 16 YRS OLD, PASSED AWAY LAST SUMMER. WE HAVE 8 POMERANIANS, AND THE FLEAS ARE OUT OF CONTROL IN FLORIDA. MY QUESTION IS, HOW DO I TREAT THE YARD WITHOUT HARMING THE BIRDS? I HAVE A BIG YARD, ABOUT AN ACRE. I REFUSE TO USE POISON. ANY ADVISE WOULD BE GREATLY APPRECIATED. MANY THANKS, ROBIN
From: mamapom6599 (512)

Robin, I've forwarded the request to the folks at IBRRC.org - when I get an answer, it will be posted here - hopefully before the auction closes, but it not, you'll most likely get an email directly from IBRRC. 8 POMERANIANS?! You sure the cat didn't commit suicide? ;-) Thanks for writing.
Regards, Christopher

June 3 - Hi, Congrats on the fundraiser! I have a friend who worked many years out at Point Reyes Bird Observatory as an ornothologist. I recall one strange story: A bald eagle was found dead. The autopsy revealed it had swallowed over 60 whole pieces of red licorice... Best wishes, Hunter Mann, filmmaker in US &Mexico, former waiter, assist. chef & wine buyer for the Mountain Home Inn, Mt. Talampais (1976-81), former Marin resident (on Sausalito houseboats and a long-term tent on Mt. Tam). One of the TV commercials for cars I worked on in 1982 had me working at Tomales Bay, wrangling seagulls for the camera (with non-native seedless grapes).
From: hwycinema (97)

FACT: That's what happens when Bald Eagles go Trick or Treating. Licorice does not make the best bird food... Based upon your bird experience here in NorCal, I'm surprised your resume does not include Birdman of Alcatraz. ;-) Thanks for writing. I was just at Mountain Home Inn a few weeks ago for drinks and the view. $48 for four glasses of wine... ack. Thanks again, neighbor. Very Best, Christopher

June 3 - Hi from Bayville, NJ...best of luck with your auction. Hope you raise lots of money for your charity. Saw it on news@aol this morning. I think its great fun and for an even better cause, and pay no attention to the ones that just don't get it...Jacque
From: creekisland (241)

Thanks, Jacque, I appreciate the time you took to write from the land of Springsteen, Bon Jovi and the Sopranos. Very Best, Christopher

June 3 - As a bird lover I have to say Bravo and more power to you. I love the funny baby bird pictures and am very sorry about the auction hi jackers, wish you could have made a million for your great cause. Amanda
From: buckarootradingpost (234)

Amanda, a million would be nice. We're just hoping it all works out in the end and we get something. Some of anything is something and all of nothing is nothing. Thanks again for writing. Christopher

June 2 - I really hate to give you yet ANOTHER email to read, but I just had to drop a note of thanks. First off, thank you for caring for our birdies for us! You all help make our community a more complete place. Secondly, thank you for posting the selected comments and emails. Thank you even more for the right-on replies. I have been in tears from laughing at them...so, thanks for the laughter too, does a soul good! Best of luck to you all with the auction and to our feathered friends for a speedy recovery!
From: buffygirl17 (41)

Buffy, laughter is the best medicine... afterall, if a person is laughing, it confirms they're listening. Thanks for listening, laughing and writing. Very Best, Christopher

June 2 - YOU ARE AWESOME AND THANKS FOR ALL THE HARD WORK! HOW DOES IT FEEL TO BE FAMOUS? THE CHARITY IS GREAT AND THE XRAY IS CRAZY!
From: shooksuebear (109)

If I get to be awesome for all of the hard work, even for a short period of time, that's good enough for me. How does it feel to be famous? If this auction makes me a babe magnet in some small way in my own county, I'll be happy. George Clooney is famous... I'm just someone working with a great charity to auction off a crazy x-ray, when you get right down to it... although I do look EXACTLY like George Clooney. ;-) Thanks very much for the wonderful email and taking the time to write. I appreciate it. Very Best, Christopher (p.s. really... I look EXACTLY like George Clooney).

June 2 - Okay, I am going to make a donation just on the fact that I have not laughed that hard in a long time. Oh, and I do like little feathered animals too, so it isn’t ALL about you and your witty humor :o). After reading all the comments I really admire the fact that you can find humor with some of these idiots/hateful people. Believe me, if I had ANYTHING that I could find an alien face in, I would sell it in a heartbeat! I have tried with my kids but it is against ebay policy (of course they haven't seen my kids) - ha! ha! Best of luck with the auction and your organization!
From: tgriswold (1591)

Hmmmm... I would like to think it is ALL about me and my witty humor. ;-) Glad to have lightened up your day in some small way by making you laugh. There's humor everywhere if you just take the time to find it... and of course, point it out. I laughed outloud on the comment about your kids and wanting to sell them on eBay, but I know you're joking (so I won't call the authorities), cuz all parents believe that at many points in their kid's development they believe their real children have been replaced by evil alien lifeforms... my parents are still waiting for the Mothership to come back and take me to my home planet.... Thanks for writing. I like ending on a high note, and your email is the best way to do just that. Very Best, Christopher

 

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On Jun-03-06 at 17:16:35 PDT, seller added the following information:

The 'CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE BIRD KIND' BLOG Continues on June 3, 2006, late afternoon.

To everyone asking, "where in the x-ray is the broken wing?"

On Sunday, May 21st, an adult male mallard was brought to the International Bird Rescue Research Center (IBRRC), with what appeared to be a broken wing. No broken wing is revealed in the X-ray, because it wasn't broken, although the animal was diseased, infested with mites and in a much-weakened state.   It eventually passed on due to the disease and weakened state.