For all of the Maryland area birders that have traveled to southern Arizona, almost certainly you have enjoyed the gracious hospitality of both Wally and Marion Paton and their yard adjacent to the Sonoita Creek Preserve in Patagonia, which became one of the best places in the state to observe hummingbirds. How many of us can list this property as the site of our life Violet-crowned Hummingbirds? Wally passed a few years ago and it is with sadness that I forward the attached email below regarding Marion's passing. Although far from a Maryland Birds topic, enough of us have been touched by this person that it is indeed relevant to this list serve.

Ed Boyd
Westminster, MD


Hello all, It is with a sad heart that I inform you that Marion Paton has left this world. She passed away yesterday, Saturday, August 29, 2009. Condolences can be sent to the family at P.O. Box 887, Patagonia, AZ 85624. I will use this list serve as a means of keeping everyone informed as to the subsequent accessibility of the property. Consider it open as always for the time being. Please do not inquire of the family as to the future of Paton Birder Haven. Everything in its time. See ya, Robin