Trip Report: Camano Island

Photo: Purple Martin by Mick Thompson

June 28, 2022

Graham Hutchison led the group through Camano Island’s Iverson Point, Barnum Point and Elger Bay Preserve. The latter was new to most of us and a great birding location. The day’s theme was baby birds with great looks at a Brown Creeper feeding its baby, as well as young Purple Martins, Barn Swallows and Wood Ducks. Other nice finds were a pair of Pileated Woodpeckers, a flock of about 60 Great Blue Herons feeding on the flats, a Hutton’s Vireo and four flycatcher species.

48 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Graham, Ken, Doug, Rex, John H., Jeff, Carlos, Judy Lo., Linda, Norwin, Denny, Melinda, Bev, Sue, Reg, Maureen, Teri, Bruce, Dianna, Leeann, Amy, Pam P., John E.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Wood Duck (4), Gadwall (1), Mallard (31)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Great Blue Heron (63)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (6)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (2)

GULLS, TERNS: Ring-billed Gull (6), Glaucous-winged Gull (25), Caspian Tern (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Eurasian Collared-Dove (2), Mourning Dove (3)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1), Rufous Hummingbird (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (3), Pileated Woodpecker (2)

FLYCATCHERS: Western Wood-Pewee (1), Willow Flycatcher (2), Hammond’s Flycatcher (1), Pacific-slope Flycatcher (3)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Hutton’s Vireo (1)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1), American Crow (6)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Purple Martin (6), Tree Swallow (14), Violet-green Swallow (4), Northern Rough-winged Swallow (1), Cliff Swallow (1), Barn Swallow (12)

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

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (2)

THRUSHES: Swainson’s Thrush (5), American Robin (12)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (6)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (6)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Common Yellowthroat (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (7), Savannah Sparrow (4), Song Sparrow (10), White-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eyed Junco (2)

TANAGERS, GROSBEAKS: Black-headed Grosbeak (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (13), Brewer’s Blackbird (1), Brown-headed Cowbird (8)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (4), American Goldfinch (3), House Sparrow (2)

Trip Report: Sedro-Woolley to Newhalem

Photo: Red-breasted Sapsucker by Mick Thompson

June 21, 2022

A warm Spring day brought out a huge covey of birders (31), as we hit birding spots from Northern State Recreation Area in Sedro-Woolley to the Newhalem Ag Ponds in North Cascades National Park. The highlight of the day was an easy choice – three Barn Owls roosting in one of the old state hospital buildings at Northern State. However, we also heard a rare bird along Martin Rd. in Rockport – an Ash-throated Flycatcher. Lazuli Buntings, Black-headed Grosbeaks, Evening Grosbeaks, Red-breasted Sapsuckers and Red-eyed Vireos were other pleasant finds.

60 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Graham, Ken, Doug, Rex, Karen, Judy Lo., Val, Linda, Norwin, Melinda, Bev, Rick, Dianna, Lianne, Junelle, Nancy, Merilee, Amy, Pam P., John E. John H., Jeff, Carlos, Ellen, Ann, Pam T., Maureen, Teri, Bruce

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Wood Duck (3), Gadwall (3), Mallard (6), Hooded Merganser (1), Common Merganser (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: American Bittern (1), Great Blue Heron (1)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (7)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (4), Red-tailed Hawk (2)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Band-tailed Pigeon (14), Eurasian Collared-Dove (4), Mourning Dove (1)

OWLS: Barn Owl (3)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Rufous Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

WOODPECKERS: Red-breasted Sapsucker (5), Northern Flicker (3)

FLYCATCHERS: Western Wood-Pewee (3), Willow Flycatcher (9), Hammond’s Flycatcher (1), Pacific-slope Flycatcher (3), Ash-throated Flycatcher (1)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Warbling Vireo (4), Red-eyed Vireo (5)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1), American Crow (6), Common Raven (2)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Violet-green Swallow (3), Northern Rough-winged Swallow (1), Cliff Swallow (20), Barn Swallow (3)

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

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (1)

WRENS: Marsh Wren (1)

THRUSHES: Swainson’s Thrush (10), American Robin (25)

STARLING: European Starling (1)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (12)

WARBLERS, CHATS: MacGillivray’s Warbler (1), Common Yellowthroat (3), Yellow Warbler (2), Townsend’s Warbler (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Savannah Sparrow (2), Song Sparrow (7), White-crowned Sparrow (6), Dark-eyed Junco (2)

TANAGERS, GROSBEAKS: Western Tanager (2), Black-headed Grosbeak (8), Lazuli Bunting (4)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (15), Brown-headed Cowbird (1)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (4), Pine Siskin (8), American Goldfinch (8), Evening Grosbeak (3), House Sparrow (1)

Trip Report: Ellensburg

Photo: Sage Thrasher by Mick Thompson

June 14, 2022

Windy weather in the Ellensburg area is pretty typical in June, but it did not interfere with some productive birding in the meadows and riparian areas around Thorpe or the sagebrush habitat of Umptanum Rd. The group saw several species that breed only east of the Cascades, including Veery, Gray Catbird, Black-billed Magpie, Mountain Chickadee, Pygmy Nuthatch, Western Bluebird, Sage Thrasher, Brewer’s Sparrow, Cassin’s Finch and Yellow-breasted Chat.

59 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Dianna, Ken, Rex, Jeff, Merilee, Val, Denny, Judy L., Melinda, Victor, Karen, Ann, Larry, Pam T.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Mallard (5)

GALLINSCEOUS BIRDS: California Quail (2)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Great Blue Heron (1)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (6)

RAPTORS: Osprey (4), Bald Eagle (1), Red-tailed Hawk (3), Peregrine Falcon (2)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Mourning Dove (5)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Rufous Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (1)

FLYCATCHERS: Olive-sided Flycatcher (1), Western Wood-Pewee (10), Pacific-slope Flycatcher (1), Eastern Kingbird (1)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Warbling Vireo (3)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1), Black-billed Magpie (4), American Crow (6), Common Raven (3)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Horned Lark (1), Violet-green Swallow (3), Cliff Swallow (25), Barn Swallow (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1)

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

WRENS: House Wren (3)

THRUSHES: Western Bluebird (5), Mountain Bluebird (12), Veery (2), American Robin (5)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: Gray Catbird (2), Sage Thrasher (1), European Starling (6)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Yellow Warbler (5), Yellow-breasted Chat (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (3), Chipping Sparrow (1), Brewer’s Sparrow (6), Vesper Sparrow (2), White-crowned Sparrow (1), Dark-eyed Junco (4)

TANAGERS, GROSBEAKS: Western Tanager (6), Black-headed Grosbeak (8), Lazuli Bunting (3)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (5), Western Meadowlark (7), Brewer’s Blackbird (15), Brown-headed Cowbird (6), Bullock’s Oriole (5)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Evening Grosbeak (1), Purple Finch (10), Cassin’s Finch (2), Red Crossbill (6), American Goldfinch (5), House Sparrow (1)

Trip Report: Big Four

Photo: American Dipper by Mick Thompson

June 7, 2022

We picked a perfect spring day for resumption of our annual picnic at the Big Four picnic area on Mountain Loop Highway. About 34 people ate hot dogs, sausages, and numerous salads and desserts. We also sang “Happy Birthday” to our leader, Virginia Clark, and met new PAS president, Bill Derry. Among birds observed were a rare American Redstart, Yellow and MacGillivray’s Warblers, Cassin’s and Warbling Vireos, Western Tanager and American Dipper.

38 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Graham, Ken, Doug, Rex, Karen, Judy Lo., Val, Lynda, Norwyn, Denny, Melinda, Bev, Sue, Reg, Rick, Jane, Dianna, Lianne, Junelle, Nancy, Merilee, Bill, Allen, Frank, Barb, Amy, Susie, Victor, Donna, and about three others.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Common Merganser (1)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Spotted Sandpiper (2)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Band-tailed Pigeon (4)

NIGHTHAWKS, SWIFTS: Vaux Swift (5)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1), Rufous Hummingbird (4)

WOODPECKERS: Red-breasted Sapsucker (1), Pileated Woodpecker (1)

FLYCATCHERS: Western Wood-Pewee (2), Willow Flycatcher (2), Hammond’s Flycatcher (1), Pacific-slope Flycatcher (2)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Cassin’s Vireo (1), Warbling Vireo (5)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (2), Violet-green Swallow (6), Northern Rough-winged Swallow (5)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1)

WRENS: Pacific Wren (1)

DIPPERS: American Dipper (2)

THRUSHES: Swainson’s Thrush (3), American Robin (5)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (8)

WARBLERS, CHATS: American Redstart (1), Common Yellowthroat (1), Yellow Warbler (4), Yellow-rumped Warbler (2), MacGillivray’s Warbler (4)

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

TANAGERS, GROSBEAKS: Western Tanager (3), Black-headed Grosbeak (3)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (3)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Pine Siskin (1

Trip Report: Leavenworth

Photo: White-breasted Nuthatch by Mick Thompson

May 31, 2022

Sun, beautiful mountain scenery and White-headed Woodpecker parents feeding their young were the highlights of this popular trip. At Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort, we saw the woodpeckers, White-breasted and Pygmy Nuthatches and House Wrens. At the nearby fish hatchery, we watched Eastern Kingbirds, Yellow Warblers and a Nashville Warbler. In the afternoon at Camas Meadows, we enjoyed views of Western Tanagers, Red Crossbills, a Hairy Woodpecker and assorted of wildflowers. Overall, the birds were few in numbers despite ideal weather conditions, emphasizing our concerns about their future in a changing climate.

56 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Graham, Dianna, Steve, Ken, Rex, Jeff, Eileen, Wilma, Merilee, Val, Lianne, Denny, Jane, Pam T.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (22), Mallard (2), Harlequin Duck (2), Common Merganser (4)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (7)

RAPTORS: Osprey (3)

SHOREBIRDS: Spotted Sandpiper (2)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Mourning Dove (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1), Rufous Hummingbird (4)

KINGFFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Downy Woodpecker (1), Hairy Woodpecker (2), Northern Flicker (1), Pileated Woodpecker (1)

FLYCATCHERS: Western Wood-Pewee (2), Willow Flycatcher (2), Pacific-slope Flycatcher (2), Eastern Kingbird (3)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Warbling Vireo (3)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1), American Crow (4), Common Raven (4)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (4), Violet-green Swallow (10), Northern Rough-winged Swallow (2), Barn Swallow (6)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (2)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (4), White-breasted Nuthatch (5), Pygmy Nuthatch (2)

WRENS: House Wren (2)

THRUSHES: American Robin (11)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (3)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Nashville Warbler (2), MacGillivray’s Warbler (1), Yellow Warbler (5), Yellow-rumped Warbler (4), Townsend’s Warbler (1), Wilson’s Warbler (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (3), Chipping Sparrow (3), Song Sparrow (4), White-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eyed Junco (2)

TANAGERS, GROSBEAKS: Western Tanager (4), Black-headed Grosbeak (3), Lazuli Bunting (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (1), Brewer’s Blackbird (5), Brown-headed Cowbird (2)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Evening Grosbeak (6), Purple Finch (8), House Finch (6), Red Crossbill (14), American Goldfinch (10)

Trip Report: Cle Elum

Photo: Bullock’s Orioel by Mick Thompson

May 24, 2022

Although it was cool and overcast east of the mountains, the morning birding was excellent. At Bullfrog Pond, a Yellow Warbler sat on her nest while several Western Tanagers flitted about. King Horn Slough produced several warbler species, Warbling Vireos, Bullock’s Orioles and a Veery, and the Railroad Ponds offered Pygmy Nuthatches, Mountain Chickadees and House Wrens. After lunch, we watched an American Dipper dip and a female Common Merganser carry seven chicks down the Teanaway River at Red Bridge. And, out on Swauk Prairie we saw Mountain and Western Bluebirds, Western Meadowlarks, Say’s Phoebe and Western Kingbirds.

72 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Graham, Dianna, Ken, Doug, Rex, Jeff, Karen, Pam, John E., Val,

Linda, Norwyn, Leanne, Denny, Anne, Junelle, Reg, Bruce

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (12), Mallard (4), Hooded Merganser (1), Common Merganser

(14)

GALLINACEOUS BIRDS: California Quail (1), Wild Turkey (3)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Great Blue Heron (1)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (4)

RAPTORS: Osprey (2), Northern Harrier (1), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (4),

American Kestrel (2)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (6)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Band-tailed Pigeon (1), Eurasian Collared-Dove (1), Mourning Dove (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1), Calliope Hummingbird (1), Rufous

Hummingbird (3)

KINGFFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

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

Pileated Woodpecker (1)

FLYCATCHERS: Western Wood-Pewee (3), Hammond’s Flycatcher (1), Says Phoebe (1),

Western Kingbird (3)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Cassin’s Vireo (1), Warbling Vireo (5)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (3), Black-billed Magpie (2), American Crow (7), Common Raven (4)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (12), Violet-green Swallow (27), Northern Rough-winged

Swallow (5)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (3), Mountain Chickadee (3)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (6), White-breasted Nuthatch (4), Pygmy

Nuthatch (9)

WRENS: House Wren (4)

DIPPERS: American Dipper (1)

THRUSHES: Veery (1), American Robin (12)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (20)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Nashville Warbler (5), MacGillivray’s Warbler (3), Common

Yellowthroat (1), Yellow Warbler (12), Yellow-rumped Warbler (4), Black-throated Gray

Warbler (1), Wilson’s Warbler (2)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (3), Chipping Sparrow (4), Song Sparrow (6),

White-crowned Sparrow (8), Dark-eyed Junco (1)

TANAGERS, GROSBEAKS: Western Tanager (10), Black-headed Grosbeak (10)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (10), Western Meadowlark (12), Brewer’s

Blackbird (25), Brown-headed Cowbird (30), Bullock’s Oriole (3)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Evening Grosbeak (14), Purple Finch (10), Cassin’s Finch (3),

Red Crossbill (5), Pine Siskin (2), American Goldfinch (10)

Trip Report: Monroe to Carnation

Photo: Western Tanager by Mick Thompson

May 17, 2022

A delightful Spring day provided a great opportunity to see some of our arriving migrant species at Carnation Marsh, Tolt-McDonald Park, Sikes Lake, Stillwater and Crescent Lake. The birds included five warbler species, Vaux Swift, Swainson’s Thrush, Western Tanager, Black-headed Grosbeak, Olive-sided Flycatcher, Lazuli Bunting, Western Kingbird and Bullock’s Oriole. Newer birders especially were thrilled to have good views of the orioles and a Cinnamon Teal. Another treat was provided by parent Brown Creepers collecting food and feeding a young one.

64 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Graham, Ken, Doug, Maureen, Rex, Jeff, Karen, Pam, John E., Judy La., Judy Lo., Val, Steve, Lynda, Norwyn, Eric, Denny, Melissa

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (90), Wood Duck (8), Gadwall (1), Mallard (4), Cinnamon Teal (1), Common Merganser (2)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Great Blue Heron (1)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (2)

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

DOVES, PIGEONS: Band-tailed Pigeon (11), Eurasian Collared-Dove (1), Mourning Dove (2)

NIGHTHAWKS, SWIFTS: Vaux Swift (300)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2), Rufous Hummingbird (4)

KINGFFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

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

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1), American Crow (4), Common Raven (1)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (12), Violet-green Swallow (15), Northern Rough-winged Swallow (2), Cliff Swallow (2), Barn Swallow (20)

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

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (2), Brown Creeper (4)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (2), Marsh Wren (7)

THRUSHES: Swainson’s Thrush (4), American Robin (10)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (60)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (16)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Orange-crowned Warbler (1), Common Yellowthroat (4), Yellow Warbler (4), Yellow-rumped Warbler (6), Wilson’s Warbler (4)

TANAGERS, GROSBEAKS: Western Tanager (2), Black-headed Grosbeak (9), Lazuli Bunting (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Savannah Sparrow (3), Song Sparrow (9), White-crowned Sparrow (2), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (20), Brewer’s Blackbird (12), Brown-headed Cowbird (8), Bullock’s Oriole (3)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (4), House Finch (1), American Goldfinch (4), House Sparrow (1)

Trip Report: Deception Pass

Photo: Whimbrel by Mick Thompson

May 10, 2022

We had an excellent birding day on a beautiful day at one of the most beautiful places in the world. And, we got to share it with Phil and Joyce, two former Tuesday birders visiting from Arizona. Waterbirds were the draw, and we were rewarded with Harlequin Ducks, Marbled Murrelets, Black Oystercatchers, Whimbrels, Western Grebes, a Virginia Rail in flight and many of the usual suspects. However, we also saw five warbler species, five swallow species and not one, but two, uncommon House Wrens.

80 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil D., Graham, Judy L., Dianna, Rick, Rex, Reg, Jeff H., Karen, Carlos, Victor, Phil B. Joyce, Sue, Linda, Norwin, Leeann, Val, John H. Pam, John E., Junelle, Nancy, Merilee, Robin

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (29), Gadwall (2), Mallard (20), Northern Pintail (220), Green-winged Teal (3), Lesser Scaup (2), Harlequin Duck (3), Surf Scoter (35), Bufflehead (11), Hooded Merganser (1), Red-breasted Merganser (3), Ruddy Duck (12)

LOONS, GREBES: Pacific Loon (1), Common Loon (3), Red-necked Grebe (5), Western Grebe 15)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (1), Double-crested Cormorant (3), Pelagic Cormorant (30), Great Blue Heron (13)

RAPTORS: Osprey (2), Bald Eagle (3), Red-tailed Hawk (4)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (3)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (2), Black Oystercatcher (3), Spotted Sandpiper (1) Greater Yellowlegs (1), Whimbrel (5), Least Sandpiper (5), Western Sandpiper (4), Long-billed Dowitcher (2)

GULLS, TERNS: Glaucous-winged Gull (12), Caspian Tern (1)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Pigeon Guillemot (30), Marbled Murrelet (2) Rhinoceros Auklet (18)

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

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2), Rufous Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (1)

CORVIDS: American Crow (3), Common Raven (1)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (40), Violet-green Swallow (24), Northern Rough-winged Swallow (2), Cliff Swallow (6), Barn Swallow (3)

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

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (2), House Wren (2), Pacific Wren (1), Marsh Wren (4)

THRUSHES: American Robin (11),

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (15)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Orange-crowned Warbler (2), Common Yellowthroat (3), Yellow Warbler (1), Yellow-rumped Warbler (5), Wilson’s Warbler (2)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Savannah Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (10), White-crowned Sparrow (13), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1), Dark-eyed Junco (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (12), Brewer’s Blackbird (9), Brown-headed Cowbird (2)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (4), House Finch (9), Pine Siskin (1) American Goldfinch (4), House Sparrow (5)

Trip Report: Darrington

Photo: Wood Duck by Mick Thompson

May 3, 2022

Our Tuesday birders traveled inland to the Darrington area in search of spring migrants. Ducks were few but included Wood Duck, Blue-winged Teal and Common Merganser. Noteworthy woodland birds were Hammond’s and Pacific-slope Flycatcher; Nashville, Orange-crowned, Black-throated Gray and Townsend’s Warbler; American Dipper; and Red-breasted Sapsuckes. Open areas yielded Vesper Sparrow, Evening Grosbeak, Vaux Swift, American Pipit and Chipping Sparrow. The tally also included Sora, Spotted Sandpiper and Peregrine Falcon.

77 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Graham, Dianna, Pam, John E., Rex, Ken, Frank, Bev, Rick, Reg, Bruce, Doug, John H., Maureen, Sue, Victor, Karen, Ann, Larry

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (3), Wood Duck (2), Mallard (8), Blue-winged Teal (1), Bufflehead (7), Hooded Merganser (1), Common Merganser (15)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (6)

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

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (1), Sora (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (1), Spotted Sandpiper (2)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Band-tailed Pigeon (3), Eurasian Collared-Dove (2), Mourning Dove (1)

NIGHTHAWKS, SWIFTS: Vaux Swift (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1), Rufous Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Red-breasted Sapsucker (4), Downy Woodpecker (1), Hairy Woodpecker (1), Northern Flicker (1), Pileated Woodpecker (1)

FLYCATCHERS: Hammond’s Flycatcher (2), Pacific-slope Flycatcher (2)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1), American Crow (2), Common Raven (4)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (2), Violet-green Swallow (6), Northern Rough-winged Swallow (1), Barn Swallow (6)

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

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (2)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (1), Pacific Wren (6), Marsh Wren (1)

THRUSHES: Townsend’s Solitaire (1), American Robin (24)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (2)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: American Pipit (1)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Orange-crowned Warbler (6), Common Yellowthroat (6), Yellowrumped Warbler (14), Black-throated Gray Warbler (2), Townsend’s Warbler (2)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (3), Chipping Sparrow (2), Vesper Sparrow (2), Savannah Sparrow (20), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (2), White-crowned Sparrow (25), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1), Dark-eyed Junco (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (16), Brewer’s Blackbird (1), Brown-headed Cowbird (7)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Evening Grosbeak, (6), Purple Finch (7), Pine Siskin (7), American Goldfinch (9), House Sparrow (1)

Trip Report: Guemes Island

Photo: Orange-crowned Warbler by Mick Thompson

April 26, 2022

Sunshine on Guemes Island made for what was undoubtedly a record species tally for this trip, including numerous Orange-crowned Warblers, Purple Finches, swallows and an early Yellow Warbler. Other songbirds included Black-throated Gray Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Townsend’s Solitaire and nest-building Chestnut-backed Chickadees. A Merlin also sped by. Waterbirds included Harlequin Duck, Common Goldeneye, Common Loon and a calling Sora. We welcomed several new Tuesday birders and much appreciated the lunchtime hospitality extended by Sally Stapp and Dick Brigham.

78 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Graham, Dianna, Ken, Teri, Charlotte, Rick, Reg, Doug, John H., Maureen, Carlos, Karen, Doug, Mike, Joanne, Jean, Leeann, Linda, Norwyn

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (1), American Wigeon (5), Mallard (15), Northern Shoveler (4), Green-winged Teal (4), Ring-necked Duck (6), Lesser Scaup (2), Harlequin Duck (2), Surf Scoter (36), Bufflehead (16), Common Goldeneye (4), Hooded Merganser (1), Red-breasted Merganser (2)

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

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (2), Pelagic Cormorant (5), Great Blue Heron (1)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (4), Sharp-shinned Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (2), Merlin (1)

RAILS, CRANES: Sora (1), American Coot (3)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (1)

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

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Common Murre (6), Pigeon Guillemot (10), Rhinoceros Auklet (4)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (2), Band-tailed Pigeon (15), Mourning Dove (3)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3), Rufous Hummingbird (3)

KINGFFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

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

CORVIDS: American Crow (6), Common Raven (1)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (9), Violet-green Swallow (24), Northern Rough-winged Swallow (12), Cliff Swallow (1), Barn Swallow (6)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (3)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (2)

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

THRUSHES: Townsend’s Solitaire (1), American Robin (24), Varied Thrush (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (2)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (1)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Orange-crowned Warbler (8), Common Yellowthroat (4), Yellow Warbler (1), Yellow-rumped Warbler (2), Black-throated Gray Warbler (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (11), Savannah Sparrow (2), Song Sparrow (26), White-crowned Sparrow (26), Golden-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eyed Junco (5)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (8), Brewer’s Blackbird (3), Brown-headed Cowbird (3)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (15), House Finch (12), Pine Siskin (10), American Goldfinch (6), House Sparrow (2)

Trip Report: South Whidbey Island

Photo: Surfbird by Mick Thompson

April 19, 2022

A great day of dry-weather birding began with a raft of about 125 Barrow’s Goldeneyes near the ferry and ended with at least 50 Black Turnstones and 10 Surfbirds near Grasser’s Lagoon – alas no Rock Sandpiper among them. In between, we found five Ospreys cavorting overhead at Ewing Road Marsh; Marbled Murrelets, a Bonaparte’s Gull and three loon species at Dave Mackie Park; Whimbrels, Black-bellied Plovers, Cedar Waxwings, Greater White-fronted Geese and a California Quail at Deer Lagoon; three American White Pelicans passing over Double Bluff County Park; plus much more.

87 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Dianna, Ken, Frank, John H., Rex, Maureen, Sue, Carlos, Judy B., Judy L. Karen, Victor, Doug, Sandy, Pam, John E.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Greater White-fronted Goose (30), Brant (930), Canada Goose (5), Wood Duck (2), Gadwall (18), Eurasian Wigeon (1), American Wigeon (15), Mallard (13), Northern Shoveler (26), Northern Pintail (37), Green-winged Teal (200), Lesser Scaup (20), Harlequin Duck (6), Surf Scoter (35), Bufflehead (102), Common Goldeneye (5), Barrow’s Goldeneye (5), Hooded Merganser (1), Red-breasted Merganser (16)

GALLINACEOUS BIRDS: California Quail (1)

LOONS, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (2), Pacific Loon (4), Common Loon (6), Horned Grebe (30), Red-necked Grebe (4), Western Grebe (2)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (6), Pelagic Cormorant (30), American White Pelican (3), Great Blue Heron (13)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

RAPTORS: Osprey (7), Bald Eagle (6), Northern Harrier (1), Red-tailed Hawk (5)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (1), American Coot (10)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (40), Killdeer (2), Greater Yellowlegs (3), Whimbrel (18), Black Turnstone (50), Surfbird (10), Western Sandpiper (6), Dunlin (200)

GULLS, TERNS: Bonaparte’s Gull (10), Short-billed Gull (50), Ring=billed Gull (1), California Gull (4), Glaucous-winged Gull (25), Caspian Tern (26)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Pigeon Guillemot (17), Marbled Murrelet (2), Rhinoceros Auklet (4)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (15), Eurasian Collared-Dove (1), Mourning Dove (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1), Rufous Hummingbird (2)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (2)

CORVIDS: American Crow (6), Common Raven (3)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (1), Violet-green Swallow (20), Cliff Swallow (8), Barn Swallow (2)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Chestnut-backed Chickadee (2)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (1), Marsh Wren (4)

THRUSHES: American Robin (25)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (6)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Orange-crowned Warbler (1), Common Yellowthroat (2)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (4), Savannah Sparrow (8), Song Sparrow (3), White-crowned Sparrow (12), Golden-crowned Sparrow (5), Dark-eyed Junco (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (12), Brown-headed Cowbird (1)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (2), House Finch (6), Pine Siskin (4), American Goldfinch (6), House Sparrow (4)

Trip Report: Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge

Photo: Violet-green Swallow by Mick Thompson

April 12, 2022

Our intrepid group drove through hail and sleet to reach Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge in Thurston County, and our day ended prematurely when another hailstorm hit in early afternoon. However, despite the chill and ice, we enjoyed several hours of good birding. There still were hundreds of wintering ducks and geese, but they were joined with legions of Tree, Violet-green, Barn and Cliff Swallows swarming above. A Eurasian Green-winged Teal was the rarest bird, and two people saw a Hermit Thrush. Other passerines included Common Yellowthroat, Yellow-rumped Warbler and Brown Creeper. We were joined by former Pilchuck board member Kathleen Snyder and her husband John from Olympia.

58 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Graham, Phil, Dianna, Ken, Rex, Maureen, Bruce, Rick, Frank, Bev, Judy B., Victor, Judy L, Kameron, Susan, Dorothea, Kathleen, John S.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Cackling Goose (500), Canada Goose (20), Wood Duck (4), Gadwall (12), Eurasian Wigeon (3), American Wigeon (200), Mallard (20), Northern Shoveler (200), Northern Pintail (50), Green-winged Teal (50), Eurasian Green-winged Teal (1), Ring-necked Duck (4), Bufflehead (10), Common Goldeneye (5)m Hooded Merganser (2)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Great Blue Heron (2)

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

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (100)

SHOREBIRDS: Greater Yellowlegs (6)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (60), Ring-billed Gull (3), Glaucous-winged Gull (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Mourning Dove (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2), Rufous Hummingbird (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (1)

CORVIDS: American Crow (8), Common Raven (1)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (40), Violet-green Swallow (250), Cliff Swallow (40), Barn Swallow (100)

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

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (3)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (3), Marsh Wren (2)

KINGLETS: Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1)

THRUSHES: Hermit Thrush (1), American Robin (8)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (8)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Common Yellowthroat (4), Yellow-rumped Warbler (20)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Savannah Sparrow (1), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (10), White-crowned Sparrow (5), Golden-crowned Sparrow (10), Dark-eyed Junco (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (12), Brown-headed Cowbird (1)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: American Goldfinch (1)

Trip Report: Silvana Roads

Photo: Wilson’s Snipe by Mick Thompson

April 5, 2022

The wet pastures of the Stillaguamish Valley and the marshes of the Port Susan Bay Conservancy provided their usual high numbers of waterfowl, shorebirds and raptors, alhough misty rain in the morning and breezy conditions in the afternoon made for much birding by car rather than extended walking. Thousands of Snow Geese were still near the Conservancy, while other highlights included Wilson’s Snipe, Long-billed Dowitcher, Virginia Rail, Northern Shrike, Rough-legged Hawk, Peregrine Falcon and Common Yellowthroat..

64 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Dianna, Ken, John, Rex, Maureen, Bruce, Rick, Frank, Melinda, Sue, Bev, Judy B., Karen, Wilma, Amy, Doug, Pam, Victor

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (7000), Canada Goose (6), Trumpeter Swan (7), Gadwall (2), American Wigeon (332), Mallard (60), Northern Shoveler (112), Northern Pintail (1), Green-winged Teal (48), Ring-necked Duck (3), Lesser Scaup (40), Surf Scoter (16), Bufflehead (8), Hooded Merganser (1), Ruddy Duck (1).

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Great Blue Heron (1)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (9), Northern Harrier (2), Red-tailed Hawk (3), Rough-legged Hawk (1), American Kestrel (5), Peregrine Falcon (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (1), Greater Yellowlegs (3), Dunlin (12), Wilson’s Snipe (2)

GULLS, TERNS: Glaucous-winged Gull (80)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (40), Eurasian Collared-Dove (1), Mourning Dove (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (2)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Northern Shrike (1), Hutton’s Vireo (1)

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

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (40), Violet-green Swallow (40), Cliff Swallow (1), Barn Swallow (6)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (2)

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (55), Varied Thrush (2)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (8)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Common Yellowthroat (2), Yellow-rumped Warbler (4)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Savannah Sparrow (4), Song Sparrow (6), White-crowned Sparrow (12), Golden-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eyed Junco (6)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (20), Brewer’s Blackbird (12), Brown-headed Cowbird (2)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (2), House Finch (3), Pine Siskin (1), House Sparrow (2)

Trip Report: Kiket Island

Photo: Brant by Brian Zinke

March 29, 2022

There were loads of waterfowl to be seen at Kiket Island, Similk Beach and March Point under cloudy and partly sunny skies. They included 1000+ Brants, a single raft of 300+ Buffleheads, Long-tailed Ducks, White-winged Scoters, three loon species and a number of Red-breasted Mergansers. At Similk Beach, we watched at least 20 Wilson’s Snipe fluttering among the cattails. Rough-legged Hawk, Black Oystercatcher, Orange-crowned Warbler, Purple Finch and Rufous Hummingbird were other nice finds.

68 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Dianna, Ken, Jeff, John, Rex, Charlotte, Maureen, Bruce, Sue, Bev, Carlos, Allen, Judy B., Judy Lo., Karen, Wilma, Amy, Junelle, Nancy, Merilee

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (5000), Brant (1000), Canada Goose (24), Trumpeter Swan (150), Gadwall (2), American Wigeon (150), Mallard (200), Northern Pintail (650), Green-winged Teal (80), Greater Scaup (200), Lesser Scaup (200), Surf Scoter (16), White-winged Scoter (6), Long-tailed Duck (4), Bufflehead (335), Common Goldeneye (20), Hooded Merganser (2), Red-breasted Merganser (526, Ruddy Duck (5).

LOONS, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (2), Pacific Loon (1), Common Loon (3), Pied=billed Grebe (1), Horned Grebe (6), Red-necked Grebe (9)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (38), Pelagic Cormorant (100), Great Blue Heron (35)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (6), Northern Harrier (2), Red-tailed Hawk (2), Rough-legged Hawk (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Black Oystercatcher (2), Greater Yellowlegs (2), Wilson’s Snipe (20)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (16), Glaucous-winged Gull (60)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (8), Eurasian Collared-Dove (2), Mourning Dove (1)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Pigeon Guillemot (6), Rhinoceros Auklet (2)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (4), Eurasian Collared-Dove (2), Mourning Dove (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1), Rufous Hummingbird (3)

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

CORVIDS: American Crow (13)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (4), Violet-green Swallow (8)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (2)

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (9)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (2)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Orange-crowned Warbler (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (5), Song Sparrow (8), White-crowned Sparrow (10), Golden-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eyed Junco (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (12), Brewer’s Blackbird (10)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (2), House Finch (6), Pine Siskin (1), House Sparrow (1)

Trip Report: Snohomish

Photo: Great Blue Herons by Ken Lassman

March 22, 2022

A light mist left us early, and we enjoyed a nice day of birding at several sites around the Snohomish area. Highlights included several Wood Ducks, an active herony and a Rufous Hummingbird at Audubon’s Riverview Wildlife Refuge, newly arrived swallows along the Fobes Road dike, Varied Thrush and Purple Finch. On the Snohomish flats, we saw about 500 Snow Geese take off and head north. Much thanks to Doug and his wife for their lunchtime hospitality.

55 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Virginia, Jim, Paul, Valerie, Dianna, Rick, Ken, Melinda, Bev, Sue, Bruce, Frank, Judy Lo., Rex, Doug, Karen, Steve, Pam, John, Amy, Wilma, Carlos, Maureen

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (500), Canada Goose (16), Wood Duck (9), Gadwall (24), American Wigeon (4), Mallard (165), Northern Shoveler (12), Northern Pintail (3), Green-winged Teal (6), Ring-necked Duck (30), Lesser Scaup (50), Bufflehead (9), Common Merganser (2), Ruddy Duck (1)

LOON, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (7)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (2), Great Blue Heron (25)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (1), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (7)

GULLS, TERNS: Glaucous-winged Gull (12)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Eurasian Collared-Dove (2)

HUMMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3), Rufous Hummingbird (1)

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

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (3) American Crow (15)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (4), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (3), Bushtit (1)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (7), Pacific Wren (5), Marsh Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (1), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (8)

THRUSHES: American Robin (28), Varied Thrush (2)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (13)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (5), Fox Sparrow (2), Song Sparrow (10), White-crowned Sparrow (8), Golden-crowned Sparrow (12), Dark-eyed Junco (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (10)

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

Trip Report: Blaine & Semiahmoo

Photo: Long-tailed Duck by Mick Thompson

March 15, 2022

The rain (and hail) held off until 2:30, so it turned out to be a pretty good day of birding at Blaine, Semiahmoo, Birch Bay and Lake Terrell. A Eurasian Whimbrel at the Drayton Harbor boat launch had to be the highlight bird of the day for some of us. Another was a huge raft of geese and ducks off of the Semiahmoo spit. We also were pleased to find Long-tailed Ducks, Black and White-winged Scoters, Eurasian Wigeons, Sanderlings, Black Oystercatchers, Harlequin Ducks and dozens of Black Turnstones, Common Loons and Pacific Loons.

59 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Dianna, Victor, Ken, Frank, Melinda, Rex, Jeff, Carlos, Doug, Judy B., Judy Lo., Val, Karen

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Brant (300), Canada Goose (8), Eurasian Wigeon (3), American Wigeon (100), Mallard (50), Northern Shoveler (1), Northern Pintail (6), Green-winged Teal (14), Ring-necked Duck (1), Lesser Scaup (2), Harlequin Duck (20), Surf Scoter (700), White-winged Scoter (150), Black Scoter (8), Long-tailed Duck (5), Bufflehead (25), Common Goldeneye (15), Common Merganser (215), Red-breasted Merganser (5), Ruddy Duck (1).

LOONS, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (2), Pacific Loon (50), Common Loon (25), Horned Grebe (9), Red-necked Grebe (5)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (300), Pelagic Cormorant (10), Great Blue Heron (18)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (3), Red-tailed Hawk (1), American Kestrel (1)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (100)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (3), Black Oystercatcher (2), Greater Yellowlegs (4), Whimbrel (1), Black Turnstone (53), Sanderling (15)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (15), Iceland Gull (Thayer’s) (2), Glaucous-winged Gull (100)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (8), Eurasian Collared-Dove (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (1)

CORVIDS: American Crow (28)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (2)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (5)

THRUSHES: American Robin (15), Varied Thrush (2)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (1)

SPARROWS, TANAGERS: Spotted Towhee (2), Fox Sparrow (2), Song Sparrow (8), White-crowned Sparrow (5), Golden-crowned Sparrow (12), Dark-eyed Junco (3)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (1)

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

Trip Report: Samish Flats and Fir Island

Photo: White-winged Scoter by Mick Thompson

March 8, 2022

A large group of 22 explored the Samish Flats, Samish Island and Fir Island for late winter raptors and waterfowl. No success on the Prairie Falcon, but the tally did include Rough-legged Hawks, Harlan’s Red-tailed Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, Peregrine Falcon and numerous Bald Eagles. Other highlights were Long-tailed Ducks, White-winged Scoters and 2022’s first Rufous Hummingbird at Samish Island, plus Wilson’s Snipe, Canvasback, and an early Violet-green Swallow.

71 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Jim, Phil, Mike, Ken, Frank, Rex, Reg, Jeff, Judy Lo., Judy B., Karen, Wilma, Val, Barb, Pam, John, Amy, Bruce, Dianna, Allen, Victor

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (6,000), Brant (22) Cackling Goose (30), Canada Goose (4), Trumpeter Swan (900), Tundra Swan (3), Gadwall (2), Eurasian Wigeon (9), American Wigeon (400), Mallard (500), Northern Shoveler (24), Northern Pintail (47), Green-winged Teal (25), Ring-necked Duck (1), Canvasback (1), Greater Scaup (450), Surf Scoter (50), White-winged Scoter (4)k Long-tailed Duck (10), Bufflehead (30), Common Goldeneye (6), Hooded Merganser (1), Common Merganser (12), Red-breasted Merganser (14)

LOONS, GREBES: Pacific Loon (1), Common Loon (1), Horned Grebe (1), Red-necked Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (26), Great Blue Heron (17)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (31), Northern Harrier (4), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (14), Rough-legged Hawk (2), American Kestrel (2), Peregrine Falcon (1)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (3), Greater Yellowlegs (7), Dunlin (1,000), Wilson’s Snipe (3)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (16), Glaucous-winged Gull (15)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (8), Eurasian Collared-Dove (3), Mourning Dove (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1), Rufous Hummingbird (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (2)

CORVIDS: American Crow (24), Common Raven (1)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Violet-green Swallow (1)

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

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (34)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (200)

SPARROWS, TANAGERS: Spotted Towhee (2), Song Sparrow (2), White-crowned Sparrow (4), Golden-crowned Sparrow (3), Dark-eyed Junco (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (300), Western Meadowlark (1), Brewer’s Blackbird (23)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (2), Pine Siskin (20), House Sparrow (1)

Trip Report: Northeast Seattle

Photo: Yellow-rumped Warbler by Mick Thompson

March 1, 2022

The Montlake Fill, Arboretum, Magnuson Park and Kenmore was our itinerary for the first time in several years and offered some good birding for our group of 15. The trip finished with a rare Glaucous Gull that has spent several weeks in the Kenmore area. Other highlights were a dozen Greater White-fronted Geese, 17 Wood Ducks, a Redhead, Brown Creepers, Varied Thrushes and Yellow-rumped Warblers.

58 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Jim, Graham, Ken, Rick, Rex, Reg, Melinda, Jeff, Sue, Judy La., Kameron, Judy B., Karen, Carlos

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Greater White-fronted Goose (12), Brant (1) Canada Goose (6), Wood Duck (17), Gadwall (15), Eurasian Wigeon (2), American Wigeon (50), Mallard (60), Northern Shoveler (12), Green-winged Teal (6), Redhead (1), Ring-necked Duck (65), Greater Scaup (2), Bufflehead (10), Common Goldeneye (1), Hooded Merganser (7), Common Merganser (5)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (6)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (14), Great Blue Heron (5)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (4), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (1)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (25)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (40), Ring-billed Gull (1), Glaucous Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (12)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

WOODPECKERS: Downy Woodpecker (1), Northern Flicker (5)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1), American Crow (50)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (4), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (2), Bushtit (6)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (2), Pacific Wren (1), Marsh Wren (6)

THRUSHES: American Robin (23), Varied Thrush (2)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (20)

LONGSPURS, WARBLERS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (2)

SPARROWS, TANAGERS: Spotted Towhee (1), Fox Sparrow (3), Song Sparrow (6), White-crowned Sparrow (6), Golden-crowned Sparrow (10), Dark-eyed Junco (6)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (16)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (2), Pine Siskin (20)

Trip Report: Spencer Island

Photo: Pied-billed Grebe by Mick Thompson

February 22, 2022

Chilly conditions did not deter 15 intrepid birders from birding at Spencer Island, the Everett Sewage Lagoons and the Ebey Waterfront Trail. Teri and Jeff spotted a Tufted Duck x Scaup hybrid in the north sewage lagoon. A Peregrine Falcon (Peale’s), Northern Harriers, and a pair of Long-billed Dowitchers also were seen among the expected ducks, raptors and shorebirds. Alas, no Common Redpolls.

41 Species and 1 Hybrid (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Jim, Teri, Ken, Dianna, Rick, Rex, Melinda, Val, Reg, Jeff, Sue, Judy Lo., Doug, Karen

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (15), Gadwall (6), American Wigeon (8), Mallard (115), Northern Shoveler (500), Northern Pintail (300), Green-winged Teal (100), Ring-necked Duck (200), Greater Scaup (2), Lesser Scaup (1000), Tufted Duck x Scaup (1), Bufflehead (4), Common Merganser (2), Ruddy Duck (120).

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (1), Great Blue Heron (3)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (6), Northern Harrier (2), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (4), Peregrine Falcon (1)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (15)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (12), Greater Yellowlegs (7), Dunlin (150), Long-billed Dowitcher (2)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (10), Ring-billed Gull (4), Glaucous-winged Gull (120)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (35)

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

CORVIDS: American Crow (3)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (2)

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (6)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (2)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Song Sparrow (2), Golden-crowned Sparrow (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (4)

Trip Report: North Whidbey Island

Photo: Redhead by Mick Thompson

February 15, 2022

Mostly cloudy skies and calm winds made for great waterbirding, although the land-based passerines were scarce. Long-tailed Ducks at Hastie Lake Beach Access made for a great finish after a day that also included Redheads, Canvasbacks, Harlequins, Black Oystercatchers, Surfbirds, Black Turnstones, Virginia Rails, Wilson Snipe, numerous Red-throated Loons, Brandt’s Cormorants with white breeding feathers, a pair of Varied Thrush and a Merlin.

76 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Jim, Graham, Teri, Ken, Dianna, Rick, Victor, Rex, Merilee, Val, Junelle, Nancy, Charlotte, Reg, Jeff, Sue, Bev, Melinda, Doug, Steve, Barb, Bruce, Karen

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (52), Canada Goose (10), Trumpeter Swan (60), Gadwall (4), American Wigeon (12), Mallard (2), Northern Pintail (24), Green-winged Teal (6), Ring-necked Duck (1), Canvasback (75), Redhead (4), Greater Scaup (13), Lesser Scaup (12), Harlequin Duck (4), Surf Scoter (10), Long-tailed Duck (5), Bufflehead (37), Common Goldeneye (5), Barrow’s Goldeneye (4) Hooded Merganser (14), Common Merganser (12), Red-breasted Merganser (37), Ruddy Duck (20).

LOONS, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (102), Pacific Loon (1), Common Loon (8), Pied-billed Grebe (3), Horned Grebe (5), Red-necked Grebe (7), Western Grebe (29)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (8), Double-crested Cormorant (24), Pelagic Cormorant (15), Great Blue Heron (7)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (5), Northern Harrier (1), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (9), American Kestrel (2), Merlin (1)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (2), American Coot (23)

SHOREBIRDS: Black Oystercatcher (4), Greater Yellowlegs (3), Black Turnstone (2), Surfbird (4), Wilson’s Snipe (3)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (25), Glaucous-winged Gull (30)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Common Murre (4), Pigeon Guillemot (34), Marbled Murrelet (2)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (2), Eurasian Collared-Dove (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

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

CORVIDS: American Crow (16), Common Raven (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (4)

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

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

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

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (300)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Song Sparrow (4), Dark-eyed Junco (6)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (15), Brewer’s Blackbird (4)