Trip Report: Spencer Island

Photo: Northern Shoveler by Mick Thompson

February 14, 2023

Rex Guichard led a Valentine’s Day tour of the Everett Sewage Lagoons, Spencer Island and Langus Riverfront Park. Ducks were aplenty, especially hundreds of Northern Shoveler, Northern Pintail, Lesser Scaup, Green-winged Teal and Mallard. Two Virginia Rail grunted along the way, while shorebirds included Killdeer, Black-bellied Plover, Greater Yellowlegs and Dunlin. There also were several Northern Harrier, Bald Eagle, and Red-tailed Hawk. Some of the group continued on to Everett’s Marine Park, where they saw about 170 Canvasback.

45 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Rex, Dianna, Karen, Pam T., Reg, Lianne, Ray, Denny, Bill

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (78), American Wigeon (82), Gadwall (17), Mallard (260), Northern Shoveler (680), Northern Pintail (216), Green-winged Teal (324), Ring-necked Duck (8), Canvasback (170), Greater Scaup (6), Lesser Scaup (1500), Bufflehead (13), Common Goldeneye (15), Barrow’s Goldeneye (1), Hooded Merganser (3), Common Merganser (5). Ruddy Duck (40)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (7), Great Blue Heron (10)

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

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (2), American Coot (33)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (67), Killdeer (1), Greater Yellowlegs (4), Dunlin (3)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (64), Glaucous-winged Gull (90)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (2)

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

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (7), Bushtit (8)

WRENS: Marsh Wren (6)

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

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Song Sparrow (4), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (12)

Trip Report: Fir Island

Photo: Great Horned Owl by Mick Thompson

February 7, 2023

Mother Nature was not kind to us today. It was windy from the start, rain arrived in earnest later in the morning, and we were forced to call it a day at lunch time. Highlights were quick looks at a Great Horned Owl in flight, Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle), Eurasian Wigeon, Sharp-shinned Hawk, dozens of Bald Eagles, and many Snow Geese and Trumpeter Swans.

40 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Dianna, Wilma, Pam P., Jane, Pam T., Bruce, Maureen Z., Karen, Frank, Rick, Teri, Ken, John H., Denny

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (2030), Trumpeter Swan (1040), Tundra Swan (2), Eurasian Wigeon (1), American Wigeon (3300), Mallard (4700), Northern Shoveler (3), Northern Pintail (27), Green-winged Teal (20)

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

RAPTORS: Northern Harrier (4), Bald Eagle (40), Red-tailed Hawk (4), American Kestrel (1)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (23)

GULLS, TERNS: Glaucous-winged Gull (5)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Eurasian Collared-Dove (30), Mourning Dove (1)

OWLS: Great Horned Owl (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (2)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1) American Crow (10), Common Raven (1)

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

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (3)

THRUSHES: American Robin (12)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (25)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle) ((1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Song Sparrow (2), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1), Dark-eyed Junco (11)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (460), Brown-headed Cowbird (2), Brewer’s Blackbird (765)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (5), American Goldfinch (3), House Sparrow (3)

Trip Report: Marysville-Tulalip

Photo: Cooper’s Hawk by Philip Dickinson

January 31, 2023

An early-morning snow shower failed to deter our hardy group from enjoying a pretty good day of winter birding. A California Scrub Jay greeted us at our first stop at Jennings Park, where we also found a flock of Bushtits and several Northern Flickers. After hearing a Virginia Rail at Harborview Park, newer birders especially were thrilled to get good looks at Cinnamon Teal, Wilson’s Snipe and Cooper’s Hawk along the Ebey Waterfront Trail. Tulalip Bay species included Red-throated Loon, Black-bellied Plover, Red-breasted Merganser, and Black and Ruddy Turnstone. We added Common Loon, Red-necked Grebe and Rhinoceros Auklet at Kayak Point, and finished with Canvasbacks and a Brown Creeper at Lake Goodwin.

70 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Judy Lo., Val, Dianna, Rex, Reg, Ken, Teri, Jane, Ray, Doug, Carlos, Marcia, Pat M., Catha, Lonnie

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (110), American Wigeon (161), Mallard (62), Northern Shoveler (4), Northern Pintail (82), Green-winged Teal (131), Cinnamon Teal (3) Canvasback (7), Lesser Scaup (800), Ring-necked Duck (800), Surf Scoter (10), Bufflehead (31), Common Goldeneye (6), Barrow’s Goldeneye (14), Hooded Merganser (2), Common Merganser (6), Red-breasted Merganser (1), Ruddy Duck (100)

LOONS, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (3), Common Loon (1), Pied-billed Grebe (3), Horned Grebe (8), Red-necked Grebe (3)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (27), Pelagic Cormorant (1), Great Blue Heron (3)

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

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (2), American Coot (34)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (10), Greater Yellowlegs (4), Dunlin (25), Wilson’s Snipe (1)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (330), Ring-billed Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (117)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Pigeon Guillemot (2), Rhinoceros Auklet (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (183), Eurasian Collared-Dove (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (7)

CORVIDS: Steller”s Jay (9), California Scrub Jay (2), American Crow (22)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (12), Bushtit (20)

NUTHACHES, CREEPER; Brown Creeper (1)

WRENS: Marsh Wren (3)

KINGLETS: Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (23), Varied Thrush (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (8)

WARBLERS, CHAT: Yellow-rumped Warbler (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (4), Song Sparrow (9), White-crowned Sparrow (3), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1), Dark-eyed Junco (14)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (13)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (9), House Sparrow (1)

Trip Report: South Whidbey Island

Photo: Snow Bunting by Philip Dickinson

January 24, 2023

It was another chilly and damp winter’s day, but that did not get in the way of another good day of birding. Led by Wilma Bayes, we started at Crockett Lake and worked our way south. The Bird-of-the-Day came early, as everyone got great looks at a rare Snow Bunting across the road from Crockett. Another uncommon species was a White-throated Sparrow along the Deer Lagoon trail. Other notable birds were Varied Thrush (but no Robins), Harlequin Duck, Common and Pacific Loon, Eurasian Wigeon, Brant, Black-bellied Plover and many Dunlin. At Ewing Marsh we also watched two coyotes, which seemed drawn to the coyote sculpture there.

67 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Wilma, Phil D., Judy Lo., Dianna, Denny, Rex, Reg, Karen, Leeann, Val, John H. Pam P., John E., Melissa, Frank, Teri, Jane

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Brant (149), Canada Goose (73), Gadwall (99), Eurasian Wigeon (1), American Wigeon (1400), Mallard (197), Northern Shoveler (6), Northern Pintail (102), Green-winged Teal (119), Greater Scaup (12), Harlequin Duck (1), Surf Scoter (47), Bufflehead (53), Common Goldeneye (16), Hooded Merganser (2), Red-breasted Merganser (6), Ruddy Duck (200)

LOONS, GREBES: Pacific Loon (2), Common Loon (3), Horned Grebe (14), Red-necked Grebe (6)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (2), Double-crested Cormorant (38), Pelagic Cormorant (35), Great Blue Heron (6)

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

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (22), Greater Yellowlegs (2), Dunlin (1400)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (96), Glaucous-winged Gull (220)

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

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (7), Mourning Dove (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

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

CORVIDS: American Crow (45), Common Raven (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (4), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (1), Bushtit (8)

NUTHACHES, CREEPER; Red-breasted Nuthatch (1)

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

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (11),

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (87)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Snow Bunting (1), Spotted Towhee (2), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (10), White-throated Sparrow (1), White-crowned Sparrow (3), Golden-crowned Sparrow (12), Dark-eyed Junco (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (11)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (6), House Sparrow (4)

Trip Report: Camano Island

Photo: Hutton’s Vireo by Mick Thompson

January 17, 2023

Early mist and later winds reduced our waterfowl sightings but woodland birds were active and we ended up with a pretty good species count for the day. Trip leader Graham Hutchison led us to Utsalady Bay, Smith Lake, Barnum Point, Iverson Point, and other sites. At Barnum Point, we saw Hutton’s Vireo, Black-capped and Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Golden- and Ruby-crowned Kinglet, and Brown Creeper. The highlights at Iverson Point were Virginia Rail, Western Grebe, and Red-breasted Merganser. Waterfowl included Greater Scaup, Barrow’s ad Common Goldeneye, Common Merganser, Horned Grebe, and Pigeon Guillemot.

59 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Graham, Phil, Val, Rex, Dianna, Judy Lo., Ed, Sue P., Wilma, Amy, Doug, Jane, Reg, Bruce, Karen, Rick, Lianne, Sheila, Cindy, Pat

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Cackling Goose (40), Canada Goose (186), Trumpeter Swan (350), American Wigeon (208), Mallard (160), Northern Shoveler (2), Northern Pintail (800), Ring-necked Duck (120), Greater Scaup (13), Surf Scoter (61), Long-tailed Duck (3), Bufflehead (34), Common Goldeneye (86), Barrow’s Goldeneye (78), Hooded Merganser (2), Common Merganser (2), Red-breasted Merganser (1)

LOON, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (1), Horned Grebe (6), Western Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (2), Pelagic Cormorant (4), Great Blue Heron (3)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (10), Northern Harrier (1), Red-tailed Hawk (1), American Kestrel (2)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Black Turnstone (3)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (50), Glaucous-winged Gull (29)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Pigeon Guillemot (3), Rhinoceros Auklet (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (14), Eurasian Collared-Dove (55)

HUMMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3)

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

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Hutton’s Vireo (2)

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

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (2), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (4), Bushtit (8)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (5), Brown Creeper (5)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (1), Pacific Wren (3), Marsh Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (15), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (3)

THRUSHES: American Robin (34)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (800)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (5), Song Sparrow (3), White-crowned Sparrow (1), Golden-crowned Sparrow (3), Dark-eyed Junco (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (37), Brewer’s Blackbird (3)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Sparrow (15)

Trip Report: Blaine & Semiahmoo

Photo: Northern Pintail by Mick Thompson

November 29, 2022

Brrr! Our morning at Blaine Marine Park began with temperatures in the mid-20s, but winds were calm and thousands of ducks huddled along the near shoreline: Northern Pintail, American Wigeon, Common Goldeneye, Barrow’s Goldeneye, Mallard, and a lone Snow Goose. Further out were Surf Scoter, White-winged Scoter, Common Loon, and Red-breasted Merganser, Dunlin, Black Turnstone, and a Long-tailed Duck stayed close to the jetties. At Semiahmoo, we spied Harlequin Duck, Red-throated Loon, and Black Oystercatcher. We warmed up during lunch at Wilma Bayes’ cabin, but then it began snowing and even we diehard birders headed home.

58 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Wilma, Graham, Barry, Phil, Mary, Merilee, Dianna, Ed, Rick, Bruce, Ken, Karen, Pam T. Ginger, David

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (1), Brant (350), Canada Goose (129), Trumpeter Swan (3), Gadwall (2), Eurasian Wigeon (1), American Wigeon (1250), Mallard (285), Northern Shoveler (11), Northern Pintail (3000), Green-winged Teal (5)5, Greater Scaup (165), Harlequin Duck (9), Surf Scoter (400), White-winged Scoter (120), Long-tailed Duck (1), Bufflehead (44), Common Goldeneye (21), Barrow’s Goldeneye (3), Hooded Merganser (8), Red-breasted Merganser (12), Ruddy Duck (6)

LOONS, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (1), Common Loon (5), Horned Grebe (2), Red-necked Grebe (1), Western Grebe (21)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (1), Double-crested Cormorant (17), Pelagic Cormorant (26), Great Blue Heron (5)

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

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (1), Killdeer (6), Black Oystercatcher (10), Greater Yellowlegs (1), Black Turnstone (54), Dunlin (800)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (55)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (3)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHERS: Belted Kingfisher (2)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (3)

CORVIDS: American Crow (8), Common Raven (3)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee {1)

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (4)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (4)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Song Sparrow (1), White-crowned Sparrow (6), Golden-crowned Sparrow (9)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Sparrow (1)

Trip Report: Samish Flats

Photo: Short-eared Owl by Mick Thompson

January 10, 2023

On a rare winter’s day with sunshine, 27 or us traveled to Skagit County’s Samish Flats in search of owls and raptors and found them. We saw at least ten Short-eared Owls, two Rough-legged Hawks, 38 Bald Eagles, 9 Northern Harriers, Red-tailed Hawks, and an American Kestrel. Other highlights were Long-tailed Ducks, White-winged Scoters, Red-breasted Mergansers, Eurasian Wigeon, Pacific Loon, Common Loon, Black-bellied Plovers, and tens of thousands of Dunlin. The plovers and most of the Dunlin were at Fir Island’s Hayton Reserve on our way home.

54 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Dianna, Judy Lo., Ed, Sue P., Wilma, Pam P., Graham, Jane, Reg, Pam T., Bruce, Maureen T., Karen, Melinda, Frank, Rick, Maureen Z., Charlotte, Ray, Carlos, Denny, Jean, Cindy, Ginger, David

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (4000), Trumpeter Swan (500), Tundra Swan (1), Eurasian Wigeon (1), American Wigeon (422), Mallard (3000), Northern Shoveler (1), Northern Pintail (20), Greater Scaup (105), Lesser Scaup (4), White-winged Scoter (2), Long-tailed Duci (7), Bufflehead (38), Common Goldeneye (4), Barrow’s Goldeneye (2), Hooded Merganser (3), Red-breasted Merganser (8)

LOON, GREBES: Pacific Loon (1), Common Loon (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (1), Great Blue Heron (6)

RAPTORS: Northern Harrier (9), Bald Eagle (38), Rough-legged Hawk (2), Red-tailed Hawk (2), American Kestrel (1)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (2)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (36), Dunlin (35,000)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (22), Glaucous-winged Gull (2100)

OWLS: Short-eared Owl (10)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Eurasian Collared-Dove (1)

HUMMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

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

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

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

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (1)

WRENS: Pacific Wren (3)

THRUSHES: American Robin (7), Varied Thrush (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (500)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Song Sparrow (3), Dark-eyed Junco (20)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (10), Western Meadowlark (8), Brewer’s Blackbird (100)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Sparrow (2)

Trip Report: Monroe to Carnation

Photo: Western Meadowlark by Mick Thompson

January 3, 2023

A new year began with a great rain-free trip through the Snoqualmie River Valley. Snow Geese, Trumpeter and Tundra Swans, and Western Meadowlarks kicked off our day at Lake Tye in Monroe, followed by our Bird-of-the-day Redhead and a Canvasback at nearby Lord’s Lake. We saw several Lincoln’s Sparrows and a Merlin at Crescent Lake WMA, but alas no Whooper Swan this year. Highlights at Tolt-McDonald Park in Carnation were an American Dipper and a pair of Brown Creepers. Finally, along the Snoqualmie Wildlife Trail, we watched a busy Red-breasted Sapsucker and got a brief view of a Ring-necked Pheasant.

57 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Dianna, Judy Lo., Ed, Sue P., Wilma, Doug, Jane, Reg, Ken, Pam T., Judy La., Kameron, Bruce, Maureen, Karen, Melinda, Bev, Robin, Frank, Peggy

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (60), Cackling Goose (1500), Trumpeter Swan (64), Tundra Swan (2), Gadwall (9), American Wigeon (71), Mallard (60), Northern Shoveler (5), Ring-necked Duck (26), Canvasback (1), Redhead (1), Bufflehead (1), Common Merganser (4)

LOON, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (2)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (6), Great Blue Heron (9)

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

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (90)

GULLS, TERNS: Glaucous-winged Gull (10)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (3)

HUMMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

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

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (2) American Crow (170), Common Raven (2)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (5), Bushtit (8)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (2)

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

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (4), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (3)

THRUSHES: American Robin (68)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (310)

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

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (600), Western Meadowlark (12), Brewer’s Blackbird (150)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (1), House Finch (1), American Goldfinch (1), House Sparrow (18)

Trip Report: Lummi Flats

Photo: Common Goldeneye by Mick Thompson

December 13, 2022

Conditions again were cloudy and chilly. Birds were scarce during an early tour of the flats, but we did find Norther Shrike, Common Goldeneye, and Bald Eagle. Our luck improved across from Lummi Island, where we encountered dozens of Black Turnstone, White-winged and Surf Scoter, plus 21 Long-tailed Duck and a few Barrow’s Goldeneye. In the afternoon, at Golf Course Slough we found Killdeer, Long-billed Dowitcher, and many Greater Scaup. Sandy Point yielded more Black Turnstone, Brant, Red-breasted Merganser, and Snow Goose, among others. At Lake Terrell, we added Ruddy Duck, Common Merganser, Ring-necked Duck, Lesser Scaup, and American Coot. Bird-of-the-day was the last one: Short-eared Owl.

62 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Dianna, Judy Lo., Ed, Sue P., Denny, Wilma, Rick, Doug, Jane, Pam, Judy La., Kameron, Reg, Maureen T., Maureen Z., Ken, Teri, Graham

CHECKLIST:

Snow Goose (3), Brant (32), Canada Goose (57), Trumpeter Swan (4), American Wigeon (133), Mallard (84), Northern Shoveler (4), Northern Pintail (68), Green-winged Teal (8), Ring-necked Duck (30), Greater Scaup (445), Lesser Scaup (2), Surf Scoter (410), White-winged Scoter (48), Long-tailed Duck (21), Bufflehead (15), Common Goldeneye (24), Barrow’s Goldeneye (5), Hooded Merganser (2), Common Merganser (12), Red-breasted Merganser (1), Ruddy Duck (2)

LOON, GREBES: Common Loon (7), Pied-billed Grebe (2), Horned Grebe (12), Red-necked Grebe (4), Western Grebe (3)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (7), Pelagic Cormorant (2), Great Blue Heron (9)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (6), Northern Harrier (5), Cooper’s Hawk (2), Red-tailed Hawk (3)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (400)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (19), Black Turnstone (80), Long-billed Dowitcher (10)

GULLS, TERNS: California Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (40)

ALCIDS: Pigeon Guillemot (2)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (4), Eurasian Collared-Dove (16), Mourning Dove (1)

OWLS: Short-eared Owl (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (4)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Northern Shrike (1)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (2) American Crow (26), Common Raven (2)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1)

WRENS: Marsh Wren (3)

THRUSHES: American Robin (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (36)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Song Sparrow (7), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1), Dark-eyed Junco (12)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (8), House Sparrow (10)

Trip Report: Snohomish

Photo: Varied Thrush by Rex Guichard

December 6, 2022

Conditions were cloudy and chilly with snow-covered ground, but we had a good morning of birding. A Varied Thrush was the bird-of-the-day, but we also saw several duck species that included Wood Duck, Common Merganser, and Ruddy Duck, a fan-tailed Cooper’s Hawk, Brown Creeper, and several Purple Finches. After a warming lunch at Doug Coopers home, we cut our birding short so we could visit our longtime leader Virginia Clark to give her love and sing her some seasonal carols. The species count includes Virginia’s feeders.

44 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Ed, Sue P., Wilma, Rick, Rex, Doug, Jane, Reg, Jeff, Graham, Melissa

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Domestic Goose (1), Canada Goose (12), Trumpeter Swan (1), Wood Duck (1), Gadwall (67), American Wigeon (77), Mallard (555), Northern Shoveler (39), Ring-necked Duck (67), Lesser Scaup (200), Bufflehead (10), Common Merganser (23, Ruddy Duck (4)

LOON, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (3)

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

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

GULLS, TERNS: Glaucous-winged Gull (12)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Mourning Dove (1)

HUMMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

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

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (4) American Crow (37), Common Raven (2)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (8), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (3)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (1)

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

KINGLETS: Ruby-crowned Kinglet (2)

THRUSHES: American Robin (4), Varied Thrush (2)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (2)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (3), Song Sparrow (4), Golden-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eyed Junco (7)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (30)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (4), House Finch (6), American Goldfinch (26)

Trip Report: Blackie Spit

Photo: Marbled Godwit by Mick Thompson

November 8, 2022

We returned to Canada for the first time since March 2020 and were greeted with sunny, calm conditions. We stopped at Boundary Bay, Elgin Heritage Park and Blackie Spit. Bird of the day was a perched Short-eared Owl that prompted life-bird dances from several of our group. Marbled Godwit, Eurasian Wigeon (several), Common Loon, Trumpeter Swan, Red-breasted Merganser and thousands of Dunlin were other highlights. We failed to find reported Great Horned Owl and Barred Owl, but overall it was a wonderful day.

46 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Dianna, Doug, Val, Judy Lo. Ken, Melinda, Karen, Pam T., Jane, Maureen, Graham, Judy B., Melissa, Jeff, Lynda, Norwyn, Sandy

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Trumpeter Swan (15), Eurasian Wigeon (11), American Wigeon (150), Mallard (200), Northern Pintail (1000), Green-winged Teal (209), Common Merganser (1), Red-breasted Merganser (4)

LOONS, GREBES: Common Loon (6), Horned Grebe (1), Red-necked Grebe (2)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (28), Great Blue Heron (22)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (8), Northern Harrier (3), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (7), Merlin (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (600), Killdeer (1), Greater Yellowlegs (4), Dunlin (10,000)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (2), Ring-billed Gull (5), Glaucous-winged Gull (200)

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

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (8)

CORVIDS: American Crow (58), Common Raven (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee {5)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (2)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (3)

THRUSHES: American Robin (31), Varied Thrush (3)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (1000)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (2)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (5), Song Sparrow (6), White-crowned Sparrow (8), Golden-crowned Sparrow (7), Dark-eye Junco (5)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (1), Brewer’s Blackbird (30)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (4)

Trip Report: Montlake/Magnuson

Photo: Wilson’s Snipe by Mick Thompson

November 15, 2022

Our run of beautiful fall Tuesdays continued at Montlake Fill, Magnuson Park, Matthews Beach, and Log Boom Park. Montlake aka Union Bay Natural Area provided a birdy morning highlighted by Wilson’s Snipe, American Bittern, Wood Duck, Cooper’s Hawk and Orange-crowned Warbler. We also identified Fox Sparrow, Lincoln’s Sparrow, White-crowned Sparrow, Golden-crowned Sparrow, Song Sparrow, and Dark-eyed Junco. American Coot, Pied-billed Grebe, American Wigeon, Common Merganser, and Bufflehead were numerous both there and out on Lake Washington, which also yielded two Western Grebe.

51 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Dianna, Denny, Lianne, Carlos, Bruce, Reg, Ken, Karen, Rick, Amy, Graham, Judy B., Judy La., Melissa, Ginger, David, Bernice, Albert, Pinela

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (2), Trumpeter Swan (4), Wood Duck (6), Gadwall (35), American Wigeon (162), Mallard (48), Northern Shoveler (11), Green-winged Teal (5), Ring-necked Duck (42), Lesser Scaup (11), Bufflehead (43), Hooded Merganser (8), Common Merganser (52), Red-breasted Merganser (1)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (33), Horned Grebe (1), Western Grebe (2)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (34), American Bittern (1), Great Blue Heron (3)

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

SHOREBIRDS: Wilson’s Snipe (1)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (1), Ring-billed Gull (14), Glaucous-winged Gull (7)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHERS: Belted Kingfisher (3)

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

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1), American Crow (69)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee {9)

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

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (13)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (10)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Orange-crowned Warbler (), Yellow-rumped Warbler (12)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (5), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (14), Lincoln’s Sparrow (1), White-crowned Sparrow (1), Golden-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eye Junco (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (2)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (11), American Goldfinch (3)

Trip Report: Clear Lake

Photo: Lincoln’s Sparrow by Mick Thompson

November 1, 2022

On a cool but beautiful day, we started our birding outside Burlington, traveled country roads to Clear Lake and visited the Samish Flats. Several of us also stopped at Fir Island Hayton Reserve on the way home. Bird-of-the-day was an immature Northern Shrike at DeBay Slough. We also saw our first Trumpeter Swans of the season, White-throated Sparrow, Lincoln’s Sparrow, Rough-legged Hawk and Western Grebe. At Hayton, we witnessed an amazing flyover of 75,000 Snow Geese (estimate), plus Peregrine Falcon, Eurasian Wigeon and many Dunlin. However, nothing made us happier than a surprise visit by Virginia Clark at the East 90.

67 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Dianna, Doug, Val, Denny, Judy Lo. Bruce, Reg, Ken, Frank, Melinda, Karen, Pam T., Jane, Maureen, Rick, Pam P., John E, Amy, Wilma, Virginia, Junelle, Nancy

Northern Shrike by Philip Dickinson.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (75,715), Cackling Goose (415), Canada Goose (2), Trumpeter Swan (27), Gadwall (2), Eurasian Wigeon (1), American Wigeon (500), Mallard (600), Northern Pintail (300), Green-winged Teal (1000), Ring-necked Duck (12), Lesser Scaup (14), Bufflehead (2), Hooded Merganser (1), Ruddy Duck (5)

GALLINACEOUS BIRDS: Ring-necked Pheasant (1)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (6), Western Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (3), Great Blue Heron (5)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (13), Northern Harrier (8), Sharp-shinned Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (16), Rough-legged Hawk (1), American Kestrel (3), Peregrine Falcon (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (3), Greater Yellowlegs (1), Least Sandpiper (30), Dunlin (4,000), Long-billed Dowitcher (30)

GULLS, TERNS: Ring-billed Gull (100), Glaucous-winged Gull (8)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Eurasian Collared-Dove (8), Mourning Dove (7)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHERS: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Red-breasted Sapsucker (2), Downy Woodpecker (2), Hairy Woodpecker (2), Northern Flicker (5)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Northern Shrike (1)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (11), American Crow (36, Common Raven (6)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee {13)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (4)

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (5)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (3000)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: American Pipit (7)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (8)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (6), Fox Sparrow (2), Song Sparrow (11), Lincoln’s Sparrow (1) White-throated Sparrow (1), White-crowned Sparrow (7), Golden-crowned Sparrow (10), Dark-eye Junco (15)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (106), Brewer’s Blackbird (200)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (1), House Finch (6), American Goldfinch (4), House Sparrow (1)

Trip Report: Point No Point

Photo: Bonaparte’s Gull by Mick Thompson

October 25, 2022

We arrived at Point No Point to see hundreds of Bonaparte’s Gulls sitting on placid water. Enjoying the conditions before the wind picked up later in the morning, we also saw about numbers of Red-breasted Merganser, Pacific Loon, Rhinoceros Auklet and Short-billed Gull. Other notable birds were Sanderling, Marbled Murrelet, Parasitic Jaeger, White-winged Scoter, California Scrub Jay, Merlin, Peregrine Falcon and a lost pair of young Snow Geese. It was much windier at Foulweather Bluff Preserve, but we added Black Scoter, Western Grebe and Varied Thrush. After lunch and a short walk at Buck Lake Park, we headed home as rain began.

60 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Denny, Merilee, Rex, Judy B., Bruce, Bev, Reg, Ken, Karen, Pam T., Graham, Wilma, Mike

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (2), Mallard (1), Ring-necked Duck (34), Surf Scoter (31), White-winged Scoter (14), Black Scoter (6), Hooded Merganser (1), Red-breasted Merganser (27)

LOONS, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (1), Pacific Loon (5), Common Loon (4), Horned Grebe (28), Red-necked Grebe (10), Western Grebe (2)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (43)), Pelagic Cormorant (32), American Bittern (1), Great Blue Heron (4)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (5), Red-tailed Hawk (2), Merlin (1), Peregrine Falcon (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (4), Sanderling (1)

GULLS, TERNS: Bonaparte’s Gull (800), Heermann’s Gull (30), Short-billed Gull (25), California Gull (10), Glaucous-winged Gull (200)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Common Murre (1), Pigeon Guillemot (2), Marbled Murrelet (2), Rhinoceros Auklet (15), Parasitic Jaeger (2)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (1), Eurasian Collared-Dove (9)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (4)

KINGFISHERS: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (2)

CORVIDS: California Scrub Jay (5), American Crow (7), Common Raven (2)

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

WRENS: Pacific Wren (4)

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (21), Varied Thrush (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (1200)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (2)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (1), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (13), Lincoln’s Sparrow (2) White-crowned Sparrow (2), Golden-crowned Sparrow (6), Dark-eyed Junco (7)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (60)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (8)

Trip Report: Fir Island

Photo: Great Horned Owl by Mick Thompson

October 18, 2022

Morning fog and afternoon smoke made for difficult birding, but with some clearing in the late morning we ended up with a reasonable species count. Highlight for most of the group was a Great Horned Owl perched in a customary spot at Wylie Slough, and after lunch we also found a rare Northern Waterthrush nearby at the boat launch. Other notable sightings included thousands of Snow Geese overhead, in the water and along Maupin Rd., Long-billed Dowitcher, Greater and Lesser Yellowlegs, Pectoral Sandpiper, Wilson’s Snipe and Peregrine Falcon.

63 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Val, Denny, Rex, Judy Lo. Dianna, Doug, Steve, Bruce, Bev, Teri, Reg, Ken, Frank, Melinda, Karen, Pam T., Graham, Norwyn, Lynda, Lianne

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (7000), Cackling Goose (300), Canada Goose (10), Wood Duck (2), Gadwall (1), American Wigeon (1000), Mallard (300), Northern Shoveler (6), Northern Pintail (300), Green-winged Teal (500), Red-breasted Merganser (1)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (50), Great Blue Heron (9)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (5), Northern Harrier (6), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (5), American Kestrel (3), Peregrine Falcon (1)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (4)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (12), Greater Yellowlegs (9), Lesser Yellowlegs (2), Pectoral Sandpiper (5), Long-billed Dowitcher (60), Wilson’s Snipe (10)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (6), Ring-billed Gull (500), Glaucous-winged Gull (25)

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

OWLS: Great Horned Owl (1)

KINGFISHERS: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Downy Woodpecker (2), Northern Flicker (4)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1), American Crow (15), Common Raven (2)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee {2)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (2), Marsh Wren (8)

THRUSHES: American Robin (23)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (3000)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (6), American Pipit (28)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (2), Northern Waterthrush (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (5), Savannah Sparrow (3), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (8), Lincoln’s Sparrow (2) White-crowned Sparrow (12), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1), Dark-eye Junco (4)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (100), Brewer’s Blackbird (500), Brown-headed Cowbird (1)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (2), House Finch (14), American Goldfinch (7), House Sparrow (4)

Trip Report: Mid-Whidbey

Photo: Black Oystercatcher by Kenneth Trease

October 11, 2022

There was a wide range of waterbirds along the shores of Whidbey Island on a beautiful, mostly smoke-free day, as our group explored from Rosario Head south to Crockett Lake. Bird-of-the day was Black Oystercatcher – 48 of them to be exact. However, sightings also included Common Murre, Marbled Murrelet, Rhinoceros Auklet, White-winged Scoter, Harlequin Duck, Canvasback, Eared Grebe and three loon species. We also heard a couple of Red Crossbill at Rosario and a California Quail at Joseph Whidbey State Park.

71 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Denny, Judy Lo., Val, Dianna, Bruce, Teri, Ken, Jane, Pam T., Frank, Karen, Wilma, Doug, Pam P., John E., Amy

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (1), Cackling Goose (75), Canada Goose (140), America Wigeon (2500), Mallard (115), Northern Pintail (425), Canvasback (2), Harlequin Duck (11), Surf Scoter (155), White-winged Scoter (10), Bufflehead (2), Hooded Merganser (1), Ruddy Duck (7)

GALLINACEOUS BIRDS: California Quail (1)

LOONS, GREBES: Red-throated Loom (5), Pacific Loon (1), Common Loon (9), Horned Grebe (36), Red-necked Grebe (32), Eared Grebe (1), Western Grebe (3)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (1), Double-crested Cormorant (87), Pelagic Cormorant (58), Great Blue Heron (8)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (7), Northern Harrier (3), Red-tailed Hawk (9), Peregrine Falcon (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (3), Killdeer (9), Black Oystercatcher (48), Greater Yellowlegs (5), Least Sandpiper (110), Western Sandpiper (20),

GULLS, TERNS: Heermann’s Gull (162), Short-billed Gull (3), Ring-billed Gull (2), California Gull (3), Glaucous-winged Gull (140)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Common Murre (47), Pigeon Guillemot (5), Marbled Murrelet (5), Rhinoceros Auklet (3)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (12), Eurasian Collared-Dove (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (3)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (3)

CORVIDS: American Crow (35), Common Raven (1)

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

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

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (4), Pacific Wren (3), Marsh Wren (2)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (2)

THRUSHES: American Robin (2)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (500)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: American Pipit (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Savannah Sparrow (2), Fox Sparrow (2), Song Sparrow (4), Dark-eye Junco (3)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Brewer’s Blackbird (40)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (2), Red Crossbill (2), American Goldfinch (3), House Sparrow (1)

Trip Report: Silvana Roads

Photo: American Kestrel by Mick Thompson

October 4, 2022

Morning fog made for minimal bird activity, but sightings increased as the gloom lifted at Port Susan Bay and the Stanwood Water Treatment Plant. It was a good day for raptors, including 8 American Kestrel, 5 Northern Harrier, 2 Cooper’s Hawk and a Peregrine Falcon. The treatment plant yielded Horned Grebe and Cinnamon Teal, plus numerous Long-billed Dowitchers and Pied-billed Grebe. We also saw Fox, Lincoln’s and Golden-crowned Sparrows, and 16 early Snow Geese. However, the bird-of-the-day was the last one - an American Bittern at Olsen Rd.

65 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Judy Lo. Dianna, Val, Bruce, Bev, Teri, Reg, Ken, Frank, Maureen T., Maureen Z., Karen, Wilma, Pam P., Amy, Norwyn, Lynda, Lianne

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (16), Gadwall (20), American Wigeon (20), Mallard (200), Cinnamon Teal (1), Northern Shoveler (8), Northern Pintail (50), Green-winged Teal (200), Ring-necked Duck (22), Lesser Scaup (4), Hooded Merganser (2), Ruddy Duck (10)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (20), Horned Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: American Bittern (1), Great Blue Heron (6)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (3), Northern Harrier (5), Cooper’s Hawk (2), Red-tailed Hawk (3), American Kestrel (8), Peregrine Falcon (1)

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

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (12), Greater Yellowlegs (6), Least Sandpiper (20), Dunlin (6), Long-billed Dowitcher (60)

GULLS, TERNS: Ring-billed Gull (2), Glaucous-winged Gull (10)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (150), Eurasian Collared-Dove (6), Mourning Dove (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (6)

WOODPECKERS: Downy Woodpecker (1), Hairy Woodpecker (1) Northern Flicker (7)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (3), American Crow (45), Common Raven (22)

LARKS, PIPITS, SWALLOWS: American Pipit (8)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee {2)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (1)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (4), Marsh Wren (6)

THRUSHES: American Robin (16)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (5000)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (Audubon’s) (5), Yellow-rumped Warbler (Myrtle) (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Savannah Sparrow (4), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (9), Lincoln’s Sparrow (2) White-crowned Sparrow (10), Golden-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eye Junco (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (700), Brewer’s Blackbird (350), Brown-headed Cowbird (1)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (1), American Goldfinch (20), House Sparrow (3)

Trip Report: Sequim

Photo: Godwits by Philip Dickinson

September 27, 2022

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade! After an hour ferry delay, we reversed our itinerary to drive straight to Sequim and work our way back. We hit the tides perfectly, finding five Marbled Godwits, dozens of Black-bellied Plovers, a few Long-billed Dowitchers and Dunlin, a Peregrine Falcon and a Eurasian Wigeon among thousands of American Wigeon along the Dungeness area shoreline. Other notable species were Brown Pelican, Pacific Loon, Horned and Red-necked Grebe, and Black Turnstone. We also made it on to the 4 p.m. return ferry.

62 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Graham, Rex, Merilee, Denny, Judy Lo., Val, Bruce, Bev, Teri, Reg, Ken, Jane, Melinda, Pam T., Frank, Maureen, Wilma, Doug, Norwyn, Jeannie, Ann, Larry, Judy La.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (100), Gadwall (2), Eurasian Wigeon (1), American Wigeon (2500), Mallard (200), Northern Pintail (200), Surf Scoter (60), Hooded Merganser (1)

LOONS, GREBES: Pacific Loon (2), Common Loon (5), Horned Grebe (10), Red-necked Grebe (4)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (6), Pelagic Cormorant (20), Brown Pelican (1), Great Blue Heron (11)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (3), Northern Harrier (3), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (4), Peregrine Falcon (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (200), Killdeer (12), Marbled Godwit (5), Black Turnstone (15), Least Sandpiper (2), Western Sandpiper (13), Dunlin (2), Long-billed Dowitcher (7)

GULLS, TERNS: Bonaparte’s Gull (12), Heermann’s Gull (2), Short-billed Gull (25), Ring-billed Gull (2), California Gull (100), Glaucous-winged Gull (300)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Pigeon Guillemot (12), Rhinoceros Auklet (4)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (50), Mourning-Dove (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (4)

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

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (4), American Crow (50), Common Raven (2)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Chestnut-backed Chickadee {2)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (4)

WRENS: Pacific Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Ruby-crowned Kinglet (2)

THRUSHES: American Robin (16)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (30)

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

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (15), Brewer’s Blackbird (1)

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

Trip Report: Spencer Island

Photo: Eared Grebe by Mick Thompson

September 20, 2022

Beautiful weather and plenty of birds made for a great end-of-summer outing at Spencer Island and nearby Everett hotspots. Highlights were watching a Peregrine Falcon chase off a Merlin from a popular perch and finding a rare Eared Grebe at the Everett Sewage Lagoons. We also saw the first Hermit Thrush of the season, Cinnamon Teals, a leucistic Ruddy Duck, Horned Grebes, Ospreys, Pectoral Sandpipers, a Wilson’s Snipe, American Pipits and Yellow-rumped Warblers The day ended with five flyover California Scrub Jays at the Ebey Waterfront Trail.

69 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Virginia, Phil, Graham, Rex, Jeff, Judy Lo. Val, Bruce, Sue, Teri, Reg, Pam T., Karen, Wilma, Norwin, Linda, Jeannie

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (21), Wood Duck (9), Gadwall (10), American Wigeon (1), Mallard (900), Cinnamon Teal (3), Northern Shoveler (1000), Northern Pintail (40), Green-winged Teal (18), Ring-necked Duck (64), Greater Scaup (1), Bufflehead (1), Hooded Merganser (1), Common Merganser (9), Ruddy Duck (47)

LOONS, GREBES: Horned Grebe (3), Eared Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (82), Great Blue Heron (12)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

RAPTORS: Osprey (11), Bald Eagle (2), Northern Harrier (1), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (1), Merlin (2), Peregrine Falcon (1)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (4), American Coot (250).

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (17), Greater Yellowlegs (4), Least Sandpiper (1), Pectoral Sandpiper (3), Wilson’s Snipe (1)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (1), Ring-billed Gull (200), California Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (100), Caspian Tern (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (200), Eurasian Collared-Dove (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (5)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (3), California Scrub Jay (5), American Crow (30), Common Raven (2)

LARKS, PIPITS, SWALLOWS: American Pipit (3), Cliff Swallow (1), Barn Swallow (300)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee {5)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (4)

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

THRUSHES: Hermit Thrush (1), American Robin (10)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (1800)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Common Yellowthroat (5), Yellow-rumped Warbler (6)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (1), Savannah Sparrow (5), Song Sparrow (10), White-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eye Junco (3)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (15)

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

Trip Report: Nisqually

Photo: Merlin by Mick Thompson

September 13, 2022

It was a cloudy and very still day at Nisqually, and this made for very little bird activity in the boardwalk and orchard areas. Things were a bit better out on the flats of the estuary. The bird of day was a Merlin that posed nicely for our photographers. Some other highlights were Wood Ducks, Greater Yellowlegs. California Scrub Jay, American Kestrel, Swainson’s Thrush, Warbling Vireo and Western Wood-Pewee. One of our party also saw several Wilson’s Snipe.

37 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Graham, Denny, Doug, Frank, Ken, Bruce, Bev, Rick, Melinda, Jane, Pam T., Karen, Maureen, Norwin, Linda, John S.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Wood Duck (6), Gadwall (75), American Wigeon (2), Mallard (200), Northern Pintail (2)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (3), Great Blue Heron (6)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (6), Red-tailed Hawk (1), American Kestrel (1), Merlin (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (2), Greater Yellowlegs (2), Least Sandpiper (2), Wilson’s Snipe (6)

GULLS, TERNS: Ring-billed Gull (150), Caspian Tern (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (4)

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

FLYCATCHERS: Western Wood-Pewee (1)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Warbling Vireo (1)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (2), California Scrub Jay (1)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Barn Swallow (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee {5)

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

THRUSHES: Swainson’s Thrush (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (100)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Common Yellowthroat (6)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Savannah Sparrow (4), Song Sparrow (2), White-crowned Sparrow (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (15)

 FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: American Goldfinch (2)