Trip Report: Everett and Marysville

Photo: Rough-legged Hawk by Rex Guichard

December 21, 2021

American White Pelican, Eared Grebe, Sora, 250 Canvasbacks, Rough-legged Hawk! And, no rain! What more could you ask for during a local tour of North Everett and Marysville birding spots. Well, we also had a Herring Gull, two Iceland Gulls (Thayer’s), Red-breasted Mergansers and two Virginia Rails during our visit to Everett waterfront sites, the Everett Sewage Lagoons, Jennings Park and Harborview Park. Indeed, it was an excellent day of birding.

58 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Jim, Ken, Bev, Bruce, Larry, Anne, Melissa, Charlotte, Reg, Rick, Pam, John

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Cackling Goose (253), Canada Goose (89), Gadwall (7), American Wigeon (20), Mallard (300), Northern Shoveler (500), Northern Pintail (1000), Green-winged Teal (30), Ring-necked Duck (2), Canvasback (250), Lesser Scaup (500), Bufflehead (34), Common Goldeneye (20), Barrow’s Goldeneye (3), Common Merganser (2), Red-breasted Merganser (7), Ruddy Duck

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (1), Eared Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (37), American White Pelican (1), Great Blue Heron (2)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (10), Northern Harrier (2), Cooper’s Hawk (4), Red-tailed Hawk (4), Rough-legged Hawk (1)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (2), Sora (1), American Coot (5)

SHOREBIRDS: Dunlin (95)

GULLS, TERNS: Bonaparte’s Gull (3), Short-billed Gull (80), Ring-billed Gull (12), Western Gull (1), Herring Gull (1), Iceland Gull (Thayer’s) (2), Glaucous-winged Gull (255)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (47), Eurasian Collared-Dove (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (13)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (11)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (4), California Scrub-Jay (1), American Crow (25)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (10), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (2), Bushtit (30)

WRENS: Marsh Wren (3)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (4)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (23)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (4), Song Sparrow (4), Dark-eyed Junco (8)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Pine Siskin (30), House Sparrow (1)

Trip Report: Lummi Nation and Sandy Point

Photo: Long-tailed Duck by Mick Thompson

December 14, 2021

How nice to be precipitation free for our outing to the Lummi Reservation and Sandy Point in Whatcom County. It was quite windy at waterfront sites, but a large group of two dozen birders still enjoyed finding all three scoters, Long-tailed Ducks, Black Oystercatchers, Black Turnstones, Rough-legged Hawks, Northern Shrike and much more.

60 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Graham, Teri, Ken, Dianna, Rex, Ray, Lauren, Bev, Bruce, Melinda, Maureen, Larry, Ann, Valerie, Jeff H., Melissa, Robin, Charlotte, Judy La., Cameron

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Brant (55), Canada Goose (100), Trumpeter Swan (30), Gadwall (1), Eurasian Wigeon (12), American Wigeon (500), Mallard (50), Northern Shoveler (8), Northern Pintail (200), Green-winged Teal (7), Greater Scaup (4), Lesser Scaup (2), Surf Scoter (250), White-winged Scoter (20), Black Scoter (3), Long-tailed Duck (2), Bufflehead (40), Common Goldeneye (7), Barrow’s Goldeneye (1) Hooded Merganser (1), Red-breasted Merganser (7)

LOONS, GREBES: Pacific Loon (1), Common Loon (7), Pied-billed Grebe (1), Horned Grebe (8), Red-necked Grebe (2), Western Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (1), Double-crested Cormorant (37), Pelagic Cormorant (6), Great Blue Heron (4)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (5), Northern Harrier (6), Red-tailed Hawk (1), Merlin (1), Peregrine Falcon (1)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (130)

SHOREBIRDS: Black Oystercatcher (4), Black Turnstone (3), Dunlin (10)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (50), Ring-billed Gull (1), California Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (50)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (3), Eurasian Collared-Dove (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (4)

SHRIKEs, VIREOS: Northern Shrike (1)

CORVIDS: American Crow (25), Common Raven (2)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Chestnut-backed Chickadee (1)

KINGLETS: Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (200)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Song Sparrow (2), White-crowned Sparrow (5), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1), Dark-eyed Junco (20)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (2), Pine Siskin (175), House Sparrow (1)

Trip Report: Snohomish Area

Photo: Orange-crowned Warbler by Mick Thompson

December 7, 2021

A very cooperative Prairie Falcon afforded good looks to all and undoubtedly was the highlight of the trip around various hotspots in the City of Snohomish area. Other notable birds were a large flock of Snow Geese, Trumpeter Swans, Canvasbacks, Eurasian Wigeon, a dozen Bald Eagles, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Northern Shrike and Orange-crowned Warbler.

55 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Jim, Graham, Frank, Ken, Rick, Melinda, Bev, Rex, Maureen, Ray, Lauren, Bruce, Steve, Carlos

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (5,000), Canada Goose (20), Trumpeter Swan (50), Gadwall (6), Eurasian Wigeon, American Wigeon (150), Mallard (300), Northern Shoveler (2), Northern Pintail (2), Green-winged Teal (2), Ring-necked Duck (47), Canvasback (9), Lesser Scaup (30), Bufflehead (10), Common Goldeneye (1), Hooded Merganser (1), Common Merganser (8), Ruddy Duck (3)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (4)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (7), Great Blue Heron (2)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (12), Northern Harrier (1), Sharp-shinned Hawk (1), Cooper’s Hawk (2), Red-tailed Hawk (2), American Kestrel (1), Prairie Falcon (1)

GULLS, TERNS: Glaucous-winged Gull (10)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Eurasian Collared-Dove (1), Mourning Dove (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Downy Woodpecker (1), Northern Flicker (14)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Northern Shrike (1)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (4), American Crow (223), Common Raven (3)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (2), Bushtit (2)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (1), Pacific Wren (1), Marsh Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (1), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (18)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (60)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Orange-crowned Warbler (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (3), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (21), White-crowned Sparrow (12), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1), Dark-eyed Junco (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Brewer’s Blackbird (12)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (3), Pine Siskin (40)

Trip Report: Anacortes

Photo: Marbled Murrelet by Phil Dickinson

November 30, 2021

Once again, a rainy day forecast did not deter our intrepid group aa we headed to Anacortes in search of murres, murrelets and other interesting seabirds. Periodic showers held off during most of our stops and, yes, we did find Common Murres along with numerous Ancient and Marbled Murrelets, along with 14 Black Oystercatchers. Also, a Merlin perched atop a pine for a long time, affording great views for all.

59 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Graham, Teri, Ken, Dianna, Rick, Rex, Melinda, Charlotte, Marty, Ann, Larry

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: American Wigeon (100), Mallard (25), Greater Scaup (6), Harlequin Duck (3), Surf Scoter (20), Bufflehead (61), Common Goldeneye (4), Hooded Merganser (18), Common Merganser (12), Red-breasted Merganser (12)

LOONS, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (200), Pacific Loon (1), Common Loon (5), Pied-billed Grebe (4), Horned Grebe (3), Red-necked Grebe (10)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (5), Double-crested Cormorant (32), Pelagic Cormorant (13), Great Blue Heron (4)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (3), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (2), Merlin (1), Peregrine Falcon (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Black Oystercatcher (14)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (8), Glaucous-winged Gull (50)

ALCIDS: Common Murre (4), Pigeon Guillemot (43), Marbled Murrelet (20), Ancient Murrelet (20), Rhinoceros Auklet (2)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (12)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (2)

CORVIDS: American Crow (10), Common Raven (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (5), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (1), Bushtit (2)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (2)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (1), Pacific Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (1), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (3)

THRUSHES: American Robin (2), Varied Thrush (6)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (50)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (5), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (3), Golden-crowned Sparrow (6), Dark-eyed Junco (13)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (4), Pine Siskin (24), American Goldfinch (2), House Sparrow (3)

Trip Report: Weekend Birdwalk to Gene Coulon Memorial Park

Photo: Chestnut-backed Chickadee by Mick Thompson

November 7, 2021

By Jonathan Blubaugh

Pilchuck Audubon Society visited Renton’s Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park on November 7th. After having found the park to be often crowded, I suggested we meet at the nearby Lowe’s. But this day it was not necessary maybe due to the early hour and chilly temperature. Some went on ahead to the park directly, and the rest of us followed them a few minutes later.

This was the first birdwalk I had led since the viral attack over a year ago. I organized no carpools in deference to public health guidelines. Our chapter now requires participants to be vaccinated, maintain social distancing, and sign an annual waiver.

We had eight people as we began at the swimming hole parking lot, which was basically empty to my surprise. In addition to some of the usual suspects (my best friends in the world) we welcomed a couple of newcomers to Weekend Birdwalks who were already members of the Pilchuck chapter. They found the trip announcement in our newsletter, the Profile, which can always be found on the Pilchuck Audubon website. The swimming hole parking lot started us out at the west end of the park at the very south tip of Lake Washington. That end of the park is next to a new Hyatt hotel and the Boeing Renton 737 factory where I work on the airfield preparing the aircraft for their first flights. It’s pretty much my sandbox.

Early on a Brown Creeper was spotted scurrying up a tree trunk and a big flock of American Robins was gorging on Mountain Ash berries. A couple of floating, anchored logs had almost three dozen Double-crested Cormorants, a few of them holding up their wings to dry. A Gadwall drake was whistling at one of several Gadwall hens. Mixed in with local, tame Mallards were three Mallard x domestic hybrids easily spotted by their blotchy white plumage.

From there we headed north along the southeast corner of Lake Washington State on ADA grade paved trails. A Peregrine Falcon (who nests just inside factory’s lakeside hanger doors) attacked the mighty Mallards, but missed. As I recall there was an adult and an immature Bald Eagle. When one of them glided down to perch on a post in the water the entire flock of gulls flushed, more than my count reflects. Continuing along the path we came across the resident Canada Goose flock, 65 strong. They are utterly tame, grazing and roosting on the grass right up to the edge of trail, not bothered in the least by the people walking or jogging by. They are really pretty up close! The ganders tend to stand sentinel duty whilst most of the flock grazes or snoozes.

It was absolutely wonderful to get back out with our old friends and new Pilchuck friends after the lengthy shutdown as you can easily understand, since we all experienced it.

We wanted to gather for lunch afterwards. Providently we found a café that was mostly empty, so our afternoon ended with good food, good friends, and God willing, a return to some type of normalcy.

Here’s a list of most of the birds that we saw: 65 Canada Geese, seven Gadwall, 30 Mallards plus 3 domestic hybrid ducks, three Ring-necked Ducks, a Bufflehead, nine Common Mergansers, a Western Grebe, two Anna’s Hummingbirds, a couple hundred American Coots, twelve Short-billed Gull (until this year known as Mew Gulls), a Ring-billed Gull, 33 Glaucous-winged Gulls, 35 Double-crested Cormorants, a Great Blue Heron, two Bald Eagles, heard a Norther Flicker, saw a Steller’s Jay, 19 American Crows, four Black-capped Chickadees, a Chestnut-backed Chickadee, a Ruby-crowned Kinglet, a Golden-crowned Kinglet, the Brown Creeper, a Bewick’s Wren, 25 American Robins, two House Sparrows, three Dark-eyed Juncos, a Song Sparrow, a Spotted Towhee, and the Peregrine Falcon. All were uploaded to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology via the eBird mobile application (https://ebird.org/checklist/S97258694).

Trip Report: Skagit Flats and Fir Island

Photo: Varied Thrush by Rex Guichard

November 16, 2021

Closing of access to Fir Island because of the heavy flooding necessitated a change in our itinerary. We completed the first planned segment of Cedardale Rd. to Dike Rd. east of the Skagit River, where our species included numerous swans, plus meadowlarks, pipits and kestrels. Then we headed to Bayview State Park for a woodland walk producing Varied Thrush, kinglets and an integrade Northern Flicker, among others. On Padilla Bay, we saw Brants and hundreds of Greater Scaup and Buffleheads. However, after lunch we decided to cut our outing short because of additional flooding just north of the park on the Samish Flats.

51 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Teri, Ken, Dianne, Rick, Reg, Rex, Ray, Lauren, Judy B., Judy La., Judy Lo., Cameron, Janelle, Debbie

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Brant (15), Canada Goose (18), Trumpeter Swan (120), Tundra Swan (5), American Wigeon (6), Mallard (5), Greater Scaup (1000), Bufflehead (200).

LOONS, GREBES: Horned Grebe (6)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (1), Great Blue Heron (5)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (5), Northern Harrier (1), Red-tailed Hawk (8), American Kestrel (3), Peregrine Falcon (1)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (2),Glaucous-winged Gull (20)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (250), Eurasian Collared-Dove (1), Mourning Dove (17)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (5)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (4)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (2), American Crow (24), Common Raven (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (2), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (2)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (2), Pacific Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (1), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (4)

THRUSHES: American Robin (30), Varied Thrush (4)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (500)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (2), American Pipit (25)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (4), Fox Sparrow (3), Song Sparrow (2), White-crowned Sparrow (8), Golden-crowned Sparrow (3), Dark-eyed Junco (60)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (50), Western Meadowlark (3), Brewer’s Blackbird (200)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (6), Pine Siskin (10), House Sparrow (2)

Trip Report: Blaine & Semiahmoo

Photo: Brant by Brian Zinke

November 9, 2021

A cloudless sky greeted us at Blaine Marine Park, and our group of 16 took advantage to find rafts of White-winged and Surf Scoters, American Wigeon, Greater Scaup and Brant, along with our sought-after Long-tailed Duck and other waterfowl. Meanwhile, a Peregrine Falcon roosted on the Semiahmoo Resort water tower across the way. The expected rain and wind eventually arrived, but we kept birding along the Semiahmoo Spit, at Birch Bay and at Lake Terrell. Harlequin Duck, Eurasian Wigeon, Redhead and Canvasback were among additional species.

64 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Graham, Teri, Ken, Dianne, Rick, Victor, Rex, Ray, Judy B., Joan, Merilee, Judy, Cameron

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Brant (200), Trumpeter Swan (1), Eurasian Wigeon (2), American Wigeon (300), Mallard (365), Northern Pintail (56), Green-winged Teal (4), Ring-necked Duck (8), Canvasback (7), Redhead (2), Greater Scaup (150), Lesser Scaup (2), Harlequin Duck (12), Surf Scoter (700), White-winged Scoter (800), Black Scoter (2), Long-tailed Duck (3), Bufflehead (19), Common Goldeneye (4), Barrow’s Goldeneye (2) Hooded Merganser (1), Red-breasted Merganser (12), Ruddy Duck (8).

LOONS, GREBES: Pacific Loon (4), Common Loon (15), Pied-billed Grebe (6), Horned Grebe 16), Red-necked Grebe (12), Western Grebe (6)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (2), Double-crested Cormorant (57), Pelagic Cormorant (18), Great Blue Heron (45)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (7), Northern Harrier (1), Red-tailed Hawk (2), Peregrine Falcon (1)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (300)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (1), Black Oystercatcher (2), Greater Yellowlegs (3), Black Turnstone (7), Dunlin (100)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (30), Ring-billed Gull (3), California Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (30)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (1), Mourning Dove (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

CORVIDS: American Crow (62), Common Raven (2)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (8)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (1), Fox Sparrow (3), Song Sparrow (8), White-crowned Sparrow (11), Golden-crowned Sparrow (2)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (1), House Finch (22), House Sparrow (3)

Trip Report: Silvana Roads

Photo: Steller’s Jay by Doug Kliewer, Audubon Photography Awards

November 2, 2021

Our trip along the roads of the Stillaguamish Valley started out well under albeit gloomy skies. However, Mother Nature opened her spigot when we reached the Port Susan Bay Conservancy, and we decided to pack it in about 1:00 p,m. However, our large group of 20 was still thrilled to see hundreds of newly arriving swans (including some Tundra Swans), a Northern Shrike, a Varied Thrush and several American Kestrels, plus one very large beaver.

55 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Graham, Teri, Ken, Pam, John, Dianne, Rick, Frank, Jeff H. Larry, Ann, Reg, Melinda, Sue, Victor, Bev, Rex, Amy

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Greater White-fronted Goose (2), Snow Goose (3,000), Cackling Goose (800), Canada Goose (30), Trumpeter Swan (400), Tundra Swan (30), Gadwall (20), Mallard (110), Green-winged Teal (20), Ring-necked Duck (1), Hooded Merganser (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Great Blue Heron (4)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (11), Northern Harrier (2), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (4), American Kestrel (5)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (1), Dunlin (20)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (45), Ring-billed Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (100)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (200), Mourning Dove (22)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Downy Woodpecker (1), Northern Flicker (3)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (5), American Crow (2), Common Raven (2)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (27), Bushtit (15)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPERS: Brown Creeper (2)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (2), Pacific Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (1), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (2)

THRUSHES: Hermit Thrush (1), American Robin (15), Varied Thrush (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (500)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Fox Sparrow (10), Song Sparrow (35), Lincoln’s Sparrow (3), White-crowned Sparrow (3), Dark-eyed Junco (32)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (50), Brewer’s Blackbird (150)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (2), Pine Siskin (30), American Goldfinch (7)

Trip Report: Deception Pass

Photo: Brewer’s Blackbird by Rex Guichard

October 26, 2021

“Bomb Cyclone” wind forecasts did not deter 19 birders from an outing to Fidalgo Island and Deception Pass, and their optimism was rewarded with tolerable breezes, quite a bit of sunshine, only a single 10-minute rain squall, and an excellent species count. Highlight birds included Red-throated and Common Loons, Common Murres, a posing Black Oystercatcher, a Merlin and an active pair of Red-breasted Sapsuckers.

71 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Graham, Judy L., Teri, Ken, Dianne, Rick, Rex, Jeff H., Eileen, Anne, Karen, Carlos, Judy B., Jo, Heidi, Cameron and Judy

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Cackling Goose (50), Canada Goose (14), Gadwall (1), American Wigeon (40), Mallard (5), Northern Shoveler (60), Northern Pintail (50), Green-winged Teal (12), Ring-necked Duck (12), Greater Scaup (13), Lesser Scaup (2), Surf Scoter (12), Bufflehead (17), Hooded Merganser (8), Red-breasted Merganser (2), Ruddy Duck (2)

LOONS, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (2), Common Loon (8), Pied-billed Grebe (9), Horned Grebe (3), Red-necked Grebe (6)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (8), Double-crested Cormorant (10), Pelagic Cormorant (85), Great Blue Heron (7)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (5), Northern Harrier (2), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (2), American Kestrel (1), Merlin (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Greater Yellowlegs (5), Black Turnstone (6), Dunlin (25)

GULLS, TERNS: Bonaparte’s Gull (12), Heerman’s Gull (19), Short-billed Gull (35), California Gull (3), Glaucous-winged Gull (32)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Common Murre (6), Pigeon Guillemot (22), Rhinoceros Auklet (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Eurasian Collared-Dove (5)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (4)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (3)

WOODPECKERS: Red-breasted Sapsucker (2), Downy Woodpecker (3), Northern Flicker (2), Pileated Woodpecker (1)

CORVIDS: American Crow (5), Common Raven (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (1)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPERS: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1), Brown Creeper (1)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (2), Pacific Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (3), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (3),

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (105)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (23, Fox Sparrow (3), Song Sparrow (6), White-crowned Sparrow (5), Golden-crowned Sparrow (5), Dark-eyed Junco (37)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (2), Brewer’s Blackbird (200)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (1)

Trip Report: Clear Lake/Samish Flats

Photo: Short-billed Dowitchers by Rex Guichard

October 19, 2021

What a glorious fall day in Skagit County with beautiful colors and lots of birds. After Clear Lake and the Samish Flats, we finished up at Hayton Reserve. Highlights included four grebe species on Clear Lake, three falcon species, energetic Bushtits, a very cooperative Lincoln’s Sparrow, Common Murres and Marbled Murrelets off Samish Island, and perhaps 10,000 Snow Geese at Hayton.

80 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Graham, Judy L., Teri, Ken, Pam, Amy, Dianne, Merilee, Rick, Melinda, Reg, Junelle, Susan, Jeff, Robin, Rex, Heidi, Lionel

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (10,000), Cackling Goose (25), Canada Goose (40), American Wigeon (500), Mallard (100), Northern Pintail (300), Green-winged Teal (3), Northern Shoveler (6), Ring-necked Duck (22), Greater Scaup (1), Surf Scoter (100), White-winged Scoter (35), Bufflehead (2), Barrow’s Goldeneye (3), Common Merganser (5), Ruddy Duck (1)

LOONS, GREBES: Pacific Loon (2), Common Loon (6), Pied-billed Grebe (7), Horned Grebe (125), Red-necked Grebe (1), Western Grebe (3)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (150), Pelagic Cormorant (6), Great Blue Heron (6)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (10), Northrn Harrier (7), Cooper’s Hawk (3), Red-tailed Hawk (5), American Kestrel (2), Merlin (1), Peregrine Falcon (1)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Greater Yellowlegs (10), Pectoral Sandpiper (1), Dunlin (50), Short-billed Dowitcher (2), Long-billed Dowitcher (125)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (2), California Gull (2), Glaucous-winged Gull (100)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Common Murre (13), Pigeon Guillemot (2), Marbled Murrelet (2)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (40), Eurasian Collared-Dove (2), Mourning Dove (4)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (4)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (3)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (7)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (9), American Crow (350), Common Raven (2)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (8), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (6), Bushtit (35)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1), Brown Creeper (2)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (2), Marsh Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (2)

THRUSHES: American Robin (6), Varied Thrush (1)

MIMIDS, STARLING: European Starling (300)

WARBLERS, CHAT: Yellow-rumped Warbler (2)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (6), Savannah Sparrow (6), Fox Sparrow (4), Song Sparrow (36), Lincoln’s Sparrow (1), White-crowned Sparrow (3), Golden-crowned Sparrow (8), Dark-eyed Junco (100)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (80), Western Meadowlark (2), Brewer’s Blackbird (225)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (7), Pine Siskin (25), House Sparrow (12)

Trip Report: Point No Point

Photo: Parasitic Jaeger by Tom Ingram/Audubon Photography Awards

October 12, 2021

Breezy conditions at Point No Point and aptly named Foulweather Bluff did not deter us from some excellent birding at the north end of the Kitsap peninsula. Our large group of 22 was thrilled to see a flock of several hundred Bonaparte’s Gulls, a harassing Parasitic Jaeger, a Pacific Loon in stunning plumage, all three local Scoters, some Black Turnstones and four California Scrub Jays among our species count.

65 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Graham, Judy L., Teri, Ken, Ray, Lauren, Pam, John, Dianne, Valerie, Merilee, Rick, Frank, Jeff H. Larry, Ann, plus Olympia guests Cameron and Judy

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Greater White-fronted Goose (16), Canada Goose (4), Mallard (6), Northern Pintail (6), Green-winged Teal (1), Northern Shoveler (1), Ring-necked Duck (1), Surf Scoter (50), White-winged Scoter (1), Black Scoter (2), Hooded Merganser (1), Red-breasted Merganser (6)

LOONS, GREBES: Pacific Loon (1), Common Loon (20), Horned Grebe (200), Red-necked Grebe (12), Western Grebe (4)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (3), Double-crested Cormorant (20), Pelagic Cormorant (15), Great Blue Heron (12)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (2), Northern Harrier (1), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (1), Black Turnstone (5)

GULLS, TERNS: Bonaparte’s Gull (500), Heerman’s Gull (22), California Gull (2), Glaucous-winged Gull (10)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Common Murre (2), Pigeon Guillemot (5), Marbled Murrelet (4), Rhinoceros Auklet (2), Parasitic Jaeger (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (12), Eurasian Collared-Dove (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (2)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (11), California Scrub-Jay (4), American Crow (36), Common Raven (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (2), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (2)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPERS: Brown Creeper (1)

WRENS: Pacific Wren (1), Marsh Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (2)

THRUSHES: Hermit Thrush (1), American Robin (3), Varied Thrush (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (200)

WAXWINGS: Cedar Waxwing (1)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Song Sparrow (6), White-crowned Sparrow (3), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1), Dark-eyed Junco (2)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (1), House Finch (2), House Sparrow (2)

Trip Report: Spencer Island

Photo: White-crowned Sparrow by Kenneth Trease

October 5, 2021

Our small group of ten endured rain for about a half hour, but then Virginia convinced Mother Nature to hold off for awhile and we got in some birding before we called it a day in increasing winds. We skipped our usual Spencer Island trail walk due to the weather, but an estimated 1500 Bonaparte’s Gulls at the Marysville Treatment Plant made up for it. We also saw many ducks and geese along with some harriers, eagles and accipiters under the gray skies.

41 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Joe, Sandy, Ken, Ray, Lauren, Dianne, Reg

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (40), Cackling Goose (120), Canada Goose (41), Gadwall (25), American Wigeon (6), Mallard (250), Cinnamon Teal (5), Northern Shoveler (900), Northern Pintail (200), Green-winged Teal (50), Ring-necked Duck (4), Lesser Scaup (6), Hooded Merganser (4), Ruddy Duck (250)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (1), Great Blue Heron (4)

RAPTORS: Northern Harrier (3), Bald Eagle (2), Sharp-shinned Hawk (1), Cooper’s Hawk (2), Red-tailed Hawk (1)

RAILS, COOTS: American Coot (55)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (5)

GULLS: Bonaparte’s Gull (1500), Short-billed Gull (1), Ring-billed Gull (12), Glaucous-winged Gull (20)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (20)

CORVIDS: American Crow (48)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Barn Swallow (50)

WRENS: Marsh Wren (2)

THRUSHES: American Robin (1)

STARLINGS: European Starling (8)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: American Pipit (6)

LONGSPURS, WARBLERS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (12)

SPARROWS, TANAGERS: Spotted Towhee (1), Savannah Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (8), White-crowned Sparrow (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (12)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: American Goldfinch (1)

Trip Report: Sequim

Photo: Double-crested Cormorant by Brian Zinke

September 28, 2021

We escaped the rain at home for a mostly sunning morning and only some intermittent rain in the afternoon under the Sequim-area rain shadow. After stops along Gardiner Bay, we lunched at John Wayne Marina and headed out to Sequim and Dungeness Bay hotspots before a final stop at the Kitchen-Dick ponds. Thousands of American Wigeon, hundreds of Greater White-fronted Geese, and several Red-breasted Mergansers, Pacific Loons and Common Murres highlighted the day for our group of 13.

77 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Graham, Rex, Joe, Sandy, Judy B., Ken, Frank, Valerie, Merilee, Diane

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Greater White-fronted Goose (350), Cackling Goose (200), Canada Goose (200), Eurasian Wigeon (2), American Wigeon (10,000+), Mallard (100), Northern Shoveler (14), Northern Pintail (30), Green-winged Teal (30), Ring-necked Duck (1), Greater Scaup (32), Surf Scoter (35), Bufflehead (1), Hooded Merganser (15), Common Merganser (75), Red-breasted Merganser (8)

LOONS, GREBES: Pacific Loon (13), Common Loon (21)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormant (2), Double-crested Cormorant (20), Pelagic Cormorant (6), Great Blue Heron (4)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (2), Northern Harrier (2), Cooper’s Hawk (2), Red-tailed Hawk (2), American Kestrel (1), Peregrine Falcon (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (3), Greater Yellowlegs (2), Western Sandpiper (50), Least Sandpiper (10)

GULLS: Heerman’s Gull (3), Short-billed Gull (6), Ring-billed Gull (1), California Gull (20), Western Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (100)

TERNS, JAEGERS: Caspian Tern (2)

ALCIDS: Common Murre (15), Pigeon Guillemot (8), Rhinoceros Auklet (3)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (100), Eurasian Collared-Dove (6), Mourning Dove (3)

NIGHTHAWKS, SWIFTS: Vaux Swift (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (11)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (5), American Crow (6), Common Raven (3)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Violet-Green Swallow (8)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (2), Bushtit (4)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPERS: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (2)

THRUSHES: American Robin (4)

STARLINGS: European Starling (12)

WAXWINGS: Cedar Waxwing (1)

SPARROWS, TANAGERS: Spotted Towhee (3), Savannah Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (4), Lincoln’s Sparrow (2), White-crowned Sparrow (2), Golden-crowned Sparrow (10), Dark-eyed Junco (12)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (2)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (1), House Finch (1), American Goldfinch (12)

Trip Report: Camano Island

Photo: Golden-crowned Kinglet by Mandy Weger

September 21, 2021

It was another gorgeous September day on Camano Island for our group of 17, as we stopped along Utsalady Bay, and at Iverson Point, Barnum Point County Park and Eide Rd. Some of the highlights: Bonaparte’s Gulls, Parasitic Jaegers, and early Harlequin Ducks. Golden- and Ruby-crowned Kinglets, a Fox Sparrow and several Red-breasted Nuthatches were among woodland songbirds.

65 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Graham, Rex, Joe, Sandy, Judy, Teri, Ken, Ray, Lauren, Pam, John, Amy, Diane, and Carlos

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (200), Gadwall (3), Mallard (500+), Northern Pintail (25), Green-winged Teal (25), Lesser Scaup (3), Harlequin Duck (6), Surf Scoter (15), Hooded Merganser (1)

LOONS, GREBES: Common Loon (8), Horned Grebe (2), Red-necked Grebe (5), Western Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (5), Great Blue Heron (12)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (2)

RAPTORS: Northern Harrier (3), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (2)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (3)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (1), Greater Yellowlegs (7), Short-billed Dowitcher (2)

GULLS: Bonaparte’s Gull (4), Ring-billed Gull (75), California Gull (4), Glaucous-winged Gull (50)

TERNS, JAEGERS: Caspian Tern (14), Parasitic Jaeger (3)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (6), Eurasian Collared-Dove (2), Mourning Dove (9)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (6)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (3)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (10), American Crow (20), Common Raven (2)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Barn Swallow (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (3), Chestnut-backed Chickadee ()

NUTHATCHES, CREEPERS: Red-breasted Nuthatch (4)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (3)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (2), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (2)

THRUSHES: American Robin (40)

STARLINGS: European Starling (2000)

WAXWINGS: Cedar Waxwing (16)

LONGSPURS, WARBLERS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (6)

SPARROWS, TANAGERS: Spotted Towhee (4), Savannah Sparrow (4), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (4), White-crowned Sparrow (10), Golden-crowned Sparrow (9), Dark-eyed Junco (3)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (2), Brewer’s Blackbird (50)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (7), House Finch (6), American Goldfinch (15), House Sparrow (20)

Trip Report: South Whidbey Island

Photo: Heerman’s Gull by Kenneth Trease

September 14, 2021

Sixteen birders boarded the Mukilteo-Clinton ferry for a tour of birding hotspots in the southern half of Whidbey Island. We had many interesting finds, including an out-of-season Trumpeter Swan, several Parasitic Jaegers, fishing Ospreys, an early Red-breasted Merganser, American White Pelicans, three Merlins, a Harlequin Duck and a pair of Marbled Murrelets.

76 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Teri, Ken, Rick, Ray, Lauren, Diane, Jim, Allen, Jo, Trish, Russell, Trudi, Joe, and Sandy

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Greater White-fronted Goose (1) , Canada Goose (150), Trumpeter Swan (1) Wood Duck (2), Gadwall (3), American Wigeon (200), Mallard 60, Northern Shoveler (12), Northern Pintail (50), Green-winged Teal (10), Harlequin Duck (1), Surf Scoter (25), White-winged Scoter (1), Red-breasted Merganser (1), Ruddy Duck (1)

LOONS, GREBES: Pacific Loon (1), Common Loon (8), Pied-billed Grebe (4), Horned Grebe (30), Red-necked Grebe (50) Western Grebe (15)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (2), Double-crested Cormorant (20), Pelagic Cormorant (15), American White Pelican (29), Great Blue Heron (16)

RAPTORS: Osprey (8), Bald Eagle (1), Northern Harrier (2), Cooper’s Hawk (2), Red-tailed Hawk (3), American Kestrel (2), Merlin (3)I

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (1), Greater Yellowlegs (3), Lesser Yellowlegs (2), Western Sandpiper (10), Least Sandpiper (3), Short-billed Dowitcher (6), Wilson’s Snipe (2)

GULLS, TERNS: Heerman’s Gull (55), Short-billed Gull (100), Ring-billed Gull (30), California Gull (20), Glaucous-winged Gull (25), Caspian ern (32), Parasitic Jaeger (5)

ALCIDS: Common Murre (2), Pigeon Guillemot (75), Marbled Murrelet (2) Rhinoceros Auklet (4)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (22), Eurasian Collared-Dove (6), Mourning Dove (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (4)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (3), American Crow (20), Common Raven (1)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Violet-Green Swallow (2), Barn Swallow (50)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (2), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (4)

STARLINGS: European Starling (300)

LONGSPURS, WARBLERS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (8)

SPARROWS, TANAGERS: Spotted Towhee (2), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (2), White-crowned Sparrow (7)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (12), Brewer’s Blackbird (1)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (2), American Goldfinch (1), House Sparrow (1)

Trip Report: Fir Island

Photo: Yellow-rumped Warbler by Rex Guichard

September 7, 2021

Sixteen birders welcomed back the Tuesday day trips after an 18-month hiatus. A shortage of shorebirds at Wylie Slough, Hayton Reserve and Channel Drive did not take away the enjoyment of seeing friends and glorious weather. Birds of the day undoubtedly were a pair of Townsend’s Warblers and interacting Sharp-shinned and Cooper’s Hawks at Wylie Slough, and a Yellow-headed Blackbird along Wylie Rd.

61 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Valerie, Judy, Frank, Melinda, Terri, Ken, Rick, Scott, Ray, Lauren, Pam, John, Sue, Diane

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (5), Wood Duck (4), Mallard (300), Northern Shoveler (12), Northern Pintail (3), Green-winged Teal (100), Hooded Merganser (2)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Great Blue Heron (8)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (4)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (1), Northern Harrier (2), Sharp-shinned Hawk (1), Cooper’s Hawk (2), Red-tailed Hawk (2), Peregrine Falcon (1)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (2)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (3), Semipalmated Plover (1), Killdeer (12), Spotted Sandpiper (1), Greater Yellowlegs (12), Lesser Yellowlegs (2), Short-billed Dowitcher (4), Wilson’s Snipe (2)

GULLS: Short-billed Gull (1), Ring-billed Gull (6)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Band-tailed Pigeon (2), Eurasian Collared-Dove (2)

NIGHTHAWKS, SWIFTS: Vaux’s Swift (12)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

FLYCATCHERS: Western Wood-Pewee (1)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (2), American Crow (36), Common Raven (7)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (3), Barn Swallow (75)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPERS: Brown Creeper (1)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (1), Marsh Wren (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (8)

STARLINGS: European Starling (1000)

PIPITS: American Pipit (1)

LONGSPURS, WARBLERS: Orange-crowned Warbler (1), Common Yellowthroat (1) Yellow Warbler (1), Yellow-rumped Warbler (3), Townsend’s Warbler (2)

SPARROWS, TANAGERS: Spotted Towhee (1), Savannah Sparrow (30), Song Sparrow (8), White-crowned Sparrow (2), Black-headed Grosbeak (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (300), Yellow-headed Blackbird (1), Brewer’s Blackbird (26)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (3), American Goldfinch (1)