Trip Report: Camano Island

Photo: Sora by Mick Thompson

September 6, 2022

Our day began with a beautiful woodland walk at Barnum Point. A couple of mixed flocks included Black-capped and Chestnut Backed Chickadee, Brown Creeper, Orange-crowned and Wilson’s Warbler, Western Tanager, Bewick’s Wren, Pacific Slope Flycatcher and numerous Red-breasted Nuthatch. Bird-of-the-day was a Sora with three Virginia Rail at Iverson Point. Birds were scarce on open waters, but we did see Red-necked Grebe, Pigeon Guillemot, Short-billed Gull, Caspian Tern and many Great Blue Heron. A Pectoral Sandpiper was at Eide Rd.

54 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Dianna, Judy Lo., Karen, Rick, Sue, Bruce, Barry

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Geese (154), Gadwall (1), Mallard (12), Northern Pintail (30), Surf Scoter (2)

LOONS, GREBES: Red-necked Grebe (2)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (3), Great Blue Heron (64)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

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

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (3), Sora (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (9), Pectoral Sandpiper (1), Western Sandpiper (25)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (1), Ring-billed Gull (35), Glaucous-winged Gull (190), Caspian Tern (116)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Pigeon Guillemot (2)

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

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (4)

WOODPECKERS: Downy Woodpecker (1), Northern Flicker (4)

FLYCATCHERS: Pacific-slope Flycatcher (1)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (2), American Crow (34), Common Raven (2)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Barn Swallow (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee {13), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (7)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (13), Brown Creeper (4)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (3)

THRUSHES: American Robin (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (800)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (3)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Orange-crowned Warbler (2), Wilson’s Warbler (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (9), Song Sparrow (4), White-crowned Sparrow (7), Dark-eyed Junco (2)

TANAGERS, GROSBEAKS: Western Tanager (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Brewer’s Blackbird (2)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (1), House Finch (3), American Goldfinch (6), House Sparrow (2)

Trip Report: Anacortes

Photo: Pelagic Cormorant by Mick Thompson

August 30, 2022

It was another warm, beautiful summer’s day, but the continuing heat made for few songbirds in the woods and little bird activity out on the water, even at usually reliable Rosario Beach. Bird of the day had to be some Red Crossbills flying over Washington Park. Other birds of note were a fly-by Black Oystercatcher, dozens of Double-crested and Pelagic Cormorants, a Cooper’s Hawk, plus some lingering Purple Martins at Ship Harbor.

47 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Pam P., John E., Jeff, Rex, Rick, Frank, Teri, Jane, Pam T., Doug, Val, Denny, Dianna, Barry

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Geese (2), Gadwall (6), Mallard (10), Surf Scoter (1), Hooded Merganser (3)

LOONS, GREBES: Common Loon (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (140), Pelagic Cormorant (30), Great Blue Heron (42)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

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

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (20), Black Oystercatcher (1), Least Sandpiper (40)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (15), Ring-billed Gull (12), California Gull (2), Glaucous-winged Gull (160), Caspian Tern (5)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Pigeon Guillemot (3)

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

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (6)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (6)

CORVIDS: American Crow (15), Common Raven (2)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Purple Martin (8)

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

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (3)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (150)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (2)

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

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Brewer’s Blackbird (2), Brown-headed Cowbird (2)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (6), Red Crossbill (8), American Goldfinch (1), House Sparrow (4)

Trip Report: Blaine

Photo: Common Loon by Philip Dickinson

August 23, 2022

Phil Dickinson led our Tuesday birders north to Whatcom County to explore Blaine, Semiahmoo, Birch Bay and Lake Terrell. The weather was gorgeous, but warm temperatures apparently have discouraged much early migration movement. We did see thousands of Surf Scoters with some scattered White-winged Scoters, a number of Common Loons and Harlequin Ducks, Black Oystercatcher, Horned Grebe and Red-necked Grebes. Lake Terrell produced Willow Flycatcher, Pileated Woodpecker, Yellow Warbler and Wilson’s Warbler.

49 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Graham, Mike, Pam P., John E., Jeff, Victor, Rick, Bruce, Ken, Teri, Melinda, Bev, Wilma, Val, Merilee, Denny, Dianna, Joann, Jean

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Geese (500), Mallard (50), Northern Pintail (5), Harlequin Duck (15), Surf Scoter (2000), White-winged Scoter (20), Common Merganser (1)

LOONS, GREBES: Common Loon (20), Horned Grebe (3), Red-necked Grebe (6)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (400), Pelagic Cormorant (15), Great Blue Heron (25)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (6)

RAPTORS: Osprey (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (4), Black Oystercatcher (3), Spotted Sandpiper (1), Greater Yellowlegs (1), Western Sandpiper (21)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (8), Ring-billed Gull (15), California Gull (2), Glaucous-winged Gull (300), Caspian Tern (4)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Pigeon Guillemot (3), Marbled Murrelet (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Mourning Dove (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Pileated Woodpecker (1)

FLYCATCHERS: Western Wood-Pewee (1), Willow Flycatcher (2)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1), American Crow (12), Common Raven (2)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Barn Swallow (25)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (3), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (2)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (2)

THRUSHES: American Robin (3)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (6)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (2)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Yellow Warbler (1), Wilson’s Warbler (1)

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

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (8), American Goldfinch (2), House Sparrow (2)

Trip Report: South Whidbey

Photo: Baird’s Sandpiper by Mick Thompson

August 16, 2022

A nice collection of waterfowl and shorebirds highlighted a trip to Maxwelton, Deer Lagoon, Crockett Lake and other hotspots around the southern half of Whidbey Island. Species included Surf and Black Scoter, Common Loon, Western Grebe, American White Pelican, Black Oystercatcher, Pectoral Sandpiper, Baird’s Sandpiper, Common Murre and Marbled Murrelet.

61 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Junelle, Karen, Rick, Sue, Doug, Melinda, Ken, Frank, Maureen, Judy La,

Kameron, Bruce, Denny, Bev, Jane

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Geese (75), Wood Duck (12), Mallard (25), Northern Pintail (1),

Green-winged Teal (1), Surf Scoter (100), Black Scoter (6)

LOONS, GREBES: Common Loon (2), Pied-billed Grebe (7), Red-necked Grebe (4), Western

Grebe (3)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (2), Pelagic Cormorant (60), American White

Pelican (50) Great Blue Heron (2)

RAPTORS: Osprey (3), Bald Eagle (2), Northern Harrier (2), Red-tailed Hawk (1)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (6), Black Oystercatcher (1), Greater Yellowlegs (3), Western

Sandpiper (100), Least Sandpiper (5), Pectoral Sandpiper (1), Baird’s Sandpiper (3)

GULLS, TERNS: Heerman’s Gull (60), Ring-billed Gull (30), California Gull (25), Glaucouswinged Gull (10), Caspian Tern (40)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Common Murre 15), Pigeon Guillemot (42), Marbled Murrelet (1),

Rhinoceros Auklet (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (10), Eurasian Collared-Dove (3)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (3)

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

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Purple Martin (3), Barn Swallow (10)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Chestnut-backed Chickadee (1)

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

WRENS: Marsh Wren (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (2)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (10)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (8)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (3)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (1), Savannah Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (1),

White-crowned Sparrow (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (6), Brewer’s Blackbird (6)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (1), American Goldfinch (7), House Sparrow (6)

Proposed Airport Locations: Your Voice Needed!

Several Critically Important Sites to Birds are Under Threat in Snohomish and Skagit Counties

In 2019, the state legislature created the Commercial Aviation Coordination Commission (CACC) to, among other things, come up with a recommended location for a new, large airport within 100 miles of Seattle. This charge was based on the idea that commercial air traffic is growing rapidly and more airport capacity is needed. As you may have already read, the CACC recently issued a list of 10 possible sites for a large new airport from which they will select one to recommend by June 15, 2023.

Two sites in Snohomish County and two sites in Skagit County are on the list of 10 possible airport locations (see maps below). In addition there are sites in King County near Enumclaw and more. 

Snohomish County
The Northwest site is west of the current Arlington Airport with the E-W center line on Hwy 531. The Southwest site is west of Monroe encompassing from about Hwy 522 circling north over SR2 taking a huge chunk of farmland and wetlands. Both these areas are important for waterfowl migration and wintering areas and quality farmland.

View Snohomish County Talking Points Here

Skagit County
One site is what we generally refer to as Samish Flats. The other is Skagit Flats, between Highway 20 and La Conner. Both areas are very important to significant bird populations as well as to agriculture and other things we value highly. You can see the maps and a bit more info on these sites at the link below.

View Skagit County Talking Points Here
 

We Need Your Help To Protect These Sites for Birds

Please take a moment to comment to the CACC on these 4 sites and any of the others with which you are familiar (look at the Enumclaw area for example).

Take the survey:

• Go to the Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission online open house | WSDOT (wa.gov) website

• Scroll down to the "What's New" subheading

• Beneath that, click "Greenfield locations"

• From here, you can scroll down and comment on each of the 10 proposed locations. The Skagit County sites are listed first, followed by the Snohomish County sites, and so on. 

For background information on the study and CCAC, visit: Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission online open house | WSDOT (wa.gov)

For additional talking points and links to background information, go to Skagit Land Trust’s website, then scroll down to “Suggested Message Points.” You can see better maps here for Skagit County. This is a great place for more comprehensive info.

The Commercial Aviation Coordination Commission needs to hear from as many people as possible that the Skagit and Snohomish sites are very inappropriate for development of a large airport. 

And please remember that they are looking to potentially expand Paine Field, Arlington or Bremerton. You can find more info about this part of the plan by clicking on Existing Airports Under Study on the CACC website.

Your voice is important.

Sincerely, 

Martha Jordan
Avian Science Committee Chair
Pilchuck Audubon Society

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Public Meetings

Upcoming Public Meeting - August 31 at 5:30pm (Zoom meeting link)

Watch the Recording of August 23 Public Meeting
 

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Proposed Locations

Skagit County Northwest

Skagit County Southwest

Snohomish County Northwest

Snohomish County Southeast

Trip Report: Fir Island

Photo: Great Horned Owl by Mick Thompson

July 26, 2022

A hot day dictated a short itinerary. However, there was considerable activity at Wylie Slough, highlighted by a photogenic Great Horned Owl and numerous Yellow Warblers. Fir Island Reserve (Hayton) produced Least and Western Sandpipers, Semipalmated Plovers, Greater Yellowlegs, an out-of-season Tundra Swan and a pair of Peregrine Falcons. After lunch we stopped to visit Jim Beneteau. It was great to see him after his extended absence from our trips, as well as his Black-headed Grosbeaks, Red-breasted Nuthatch and Western Wood-Pewee.

60 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Judy Lo., Dianna, Graham, Pam P., Amy, Bruce, Maureen, Rick, Reg, Karen

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (80), Tundra Swan (1), Wood Duck (4), Gadwall (10), Mallard (2)

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

RAPTORS: Osprey (2), Bald Eagle (8), Red-tailed Hawk (3), American Kestrel (1), Peregrine Falcon (2)

SHOREBIRDS: Semipalmated Plover (5), Killdeer (24), Greater Yellowlegs (3), Least Sandpiper (25), Western Sandpiper (50), Long-billed Dowitcher (12)

GULLS, TERNS: Glaucous-winged Gull (1000)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Band-tailed Pigeon (6), Eurasian Collared-Dove (2), Mourning Dove (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Rufous Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (4), Pileated Woodpecker (3)

FLYCATCHERS: Western Wood-Pewee (1), Willow Flycatcher (3)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Warbling Vireo (2)

CORVIDS: American Crow (2)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (23), Violet-green Swallow (3), Cliff Swallow (30), Barn Swallow (36)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (12)

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

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

THRUSHES: Swainson’s Thrush (6), American Robin (19)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (250)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (8)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Common Yellowthroat (2), Yellow Warbler (8)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (1), Savannah Sparrow (6), Song Sparrow (14), White-crowned Sparrow (6), Dark-eyed Junco (2)

TANAGERS, GROSBEAKS: Black-headed Grosbeak (4)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (30), Brewer’s Blackbird (18), Brown-headed Cowbird (10)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Evening Grosbeak (1), Purple Finch (2), House Finch (5), Pine Siskin (2), American Goldfinch (7), House Sparrow (6)

Trip Report: Virginia Clark Luncheon

Photo: Hairy Woodpecker by Mick Thompson

July 19, 2022

Community and pie took precedence over the birds at the summer luncheon hosted by Virginia Clark. Close to 40 Tuesday birders and friends lunched on meatloaf, ham, potato salad, baked beans and 11 types of pie baked by Virginia. We were joined at Virginia’s home by Evening and Black-headed Grosbeaks, Hairy Woodpeckers, a Western Tanager, numerous finches and other birds at her feeders. In addition, a morning outing to Nakashima Barn worked up appetites and yielded Cedar Waxwings, Willow Flycatchers, baby Virginia Rails and a House Wren among others.

38 species (approx. qty.)

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Wood Duck (2), Mallard (1)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

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

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (2)

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

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

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Red-breasted Sapsucker (1)

FLYCATCHERS: Willow Flycatcher (2)

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

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (2), Violet-green Swallow (4)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1)

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

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

MIMIDS, STARLING: European Starling

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (8)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Common Yellowthroat (3), Yellow Warbler (1)

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

TANAGERS, GROSBEAKS: Western Tanager 13), Black-headed Grosbeak (3)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (4), Brown-headed Cowbird (2)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Evening Grosbeak (3), Purple Finch (3), House Finch (3) American Goldfinch (15)

Trip Report: Everett/Marysville

Photo: Caspian Tern by Mick Thompson

July 12, 2022

Phil Dickinson led our Tuesday birders around some local sites in Marysville and Everett. Highlights included California Scrub Jays at Jennings Park, Caspian Terns at Tulalip Bay, a fish-bearing Osprey surrounded by several of its closest friends North View Park, many herons still on the heronry at Marine Park, and several duck species at 12th Street and the Marysville Sewage Plant. An Eared Grebe spotted by a some at the latter location hung around for several days.

52 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Graham, Amy, Phil, Rex, Judy B., Rick, Sue, Bruce, Ken, Melinda, Bev, Pam T., Jane, Val, Judy Lo., Denny, Dianna, Deb, Jonathan, Lisa

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Geese (77), Northern Shoveler (12), Gadwall (50), Mallard (22), Northern Pintail (4), Lesser Scaup (3)

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

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (1), Great Blue Heron (39)

RAPTORS: Osprey (10), Bald Eagle (4)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (7)

GULLS, TERNS: Ring-billed Gull (20), California Gull (12), Glaucous-winged Gull (23), Caspian Tern (24)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (6), Eurasian Collared-Dove (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (3)

FLYCATCHERS: Western Wood-Pewee (1), Willow Flycatcher (1)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (4), California Scrub Jay (2), American Crow (26), Common Raven (1)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Purple Martin (2), Tree Swallow (100), Violet-green Swallow (6), Cliff Swallow (49), Bank Swallow (3), Barn Swallow (9)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1)

WRENS: Marsh Wren (11)

THRUSHES: American Robin (5)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (14)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (3)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Common Yellowthroat (5)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (5), Savannah Sparrow (2), Song Sparrow (14), White-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eyed Junco (3)

TANAGERS, GROSBEAKS: Black-headed Grosbeak (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Brown-headed Cowbird (12)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (2), Purple Finch (1), American Goldfinch (1), House Sparrow (5)

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)