Trip Report: Carnation

Photo: Bullock’s Oriole by Philip Dickinson

May 16, 2023

It was another beautiful day, and the group saw or heard most of our spring migrants at several stops around Carnation and at Crescent Lake WMA. Everyone was thrilled with excellent looks at Olive-sided Flycatcher, Wilson’s Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Townsend’s Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Warbling Vireo, Rufous Hummingbird, Cedar Waxwing, Black-headed Grosbeak, Tree Swallow, Violet-green Swallow, Western Tanager, Lazuli Bunting and Bullock’s Oriole. We also heard Western Wood-Pewee, Willow Flycatcher and Swainson’s Thrush. Add in Wood Duck chicks, Osprey, Red-breasted Sapsucker and American Dipper, and all went home happy.

61 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Wilma, Graham, Doug, Tari, Carol, Pam T., Judy L., Karen, Jeff, Rex, Judy B., Lianne, Marty, Reg

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (14), Wood Duck (9), Gadwall (2), Mallard (13), Common Merganser (2)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (3)

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

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (3)

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

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (2)

GULLS, TERNS: Glaucous-winged Gull (1)

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

HUMMMINGBIRDS: Rufous Hummingbird (4)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (3)

WOODPECKERS: Red-breasted Sapsucker (4), Downy Woodpecker (2), Hairy Woodpecker (1), Northern Flicker (3)

FLYCATCHERS: Olive-sided Flycatcher (1), Western Wood- Pewee (1), Willow Flycatcher (1), Northern Flicker (3)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Warbling Vireo (2)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (4), American Crow (12)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (9), Violet-Green Swallow (25), Northern Rough-winged Swallow (3), Barn Swallow (6)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (7), Bushtit (3)

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

DIPPER: American Dipper (1)

THRUSHES: Swainson’s Thrush (3), American Robin (53)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (61)

WAXWINGS, PIPIT: Cedar Waxwing (6)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Common Yellowthroat (11), Yellow Warbler (5), Yellow-rumped Warbler (1), Townsend’s Warbler (1), Wilson’s Warbler (5)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (1), Song Sparrow (19), Lincoln’s Sparrow (1), White-crowned Sparrow (3), Dark-eyed Junco (1)

TANAGERS, GROSBEAKS: Western Tanager (2), Black-headed Grosbeak (11), Lazuli Bunting (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (17), Brewer’s Blackbird (4), Brown-headed Cowbird (4), Bullock’s Oriole (2)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (1), Purple Finch (4), American Goldfinch (5), House Sparrow (2)

Trip Report: Darrington

Photo: Common Merganser by Philip Dickinson

May 9, 2023

A beautiful spring day started off a bit slow at three usual hotspots - Bryson Rd., Whitehorse Park and Sauk Prairie, but we did see Evening Grosbeak, Lincoln’s Sparrow, Chipping Sparrow, Spotted Sandpiper, Band-tailed Pigeon, Hammond’s Flycatcher, MacGillivray’s Warbler, Black-throated Gray Warbler and Osprey. Lunchtime at Squire Creek Campground was a pleasant surprise with several singing Cassin’s Vireo, Western Tanager and American Dipper. Fortson Mill offered Cinnamon Teal, Wood Duck, Vaux Swift, Red-breasted Sapsucker, Common Goldeneye and numerous Yellow-rumped Warbler. At C-Post Rd., we added Sora, Virginia Rail and Common Merganser. Finally, we stopped at Blue Stilly Park to find Bullock’s Oriole.

71 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Frank, Dianne, Tari, Carol, Pam T., Jane, Pam P., John E., John H., Val, Judy L., Amy, Sue B, Robin, Karen, Jeff, Bruce, Rick, Victor, Marcia, Pat, Graham, Judy B.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (14), Wood Duck (2), Gadwall (89), Mallard (2), Cinnamon Teal (2), Green-winged Teal (1), Bufflehead (4), Common Goldeneye (1), Common Merganser (4)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

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

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (2), Sora (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (1), Spotted Sandpiper (2), Whimbrel (12)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (1), Band-tailed Pigeon (16), Mourning Dove (4)

NIGHTHAWKS, SWIFTS: Vaux Swift (3)

HUMMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

WOODPECKERS: Red-breasted Sapsucker (6), Downy Woodpecker (2), Hairy Woodpecker (2), Pileated Woodpecker (2)

FLYCATCHERS: Hammond’s Flycatcher (5), Pacific-slope Flycatcher (2)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Cassin’s Vireo (6), Warbling Vireo (1)

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

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (15), Violet-Green Swallow (4), Barn Swallow (4), Cliff Swallow (1)

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

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1)

WRENS: Pacific Wren (2)

DIPPER: American Dipper (2)

THRUSHES: American Robin (53)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (2)

WAXWINGS, PIPIT: American Pipit (32)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Orange-crowned Warbler (2), Nashville Warbler (1), MacGillivray’s Warbler (2), Common Yellowthroat (5), Yellow-rumped Warbler (25), Black-throated Gray Warbler (4), Wilson’s Warbler (4)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Chipping Sparrow (2), Savannah Sparrow (4), Song Sparrow (8), Lincoln’s Sparrow (1), White-crowned Sparrow (9), Golden-crowned Sparrow (3)

TANAGERS, GROSBEAKS: Western Tanager (2), Black-headed Grosbeak (5)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (19, Brewer’s Blackbird (4), Brown-headed Cowbird (7)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Evening Grosbeak (3), House Finch (1), Purple Finch (1), American Goldfinch (7), House Sparrow (2)

Trip Report: South Whidbey

Photo: Whimbrel by Philip Dickinson

May 2, 2023

Wilma Bayes, who was raised on a south Whidbey Island farm, led us on an itinerary from Maxwelton to Crockett Lake. At Maxwelton, we began with Whimbrel, Western Grebe, Bonaparte’s Gull, Common Loon, Pacific Loon and California Quail. At the Ewing Road marsh, highlights were Osprey and five swallow species, while along Newman Rd. and at Lone Lake we found Hutton’s Vireo, Pacific-slope Flycatcher, Black-headed Grosbeak, Yellow Warbler, Rufous Hummingbird and Band-tailed Pigeon. Morning and afternoon visits to Deer Lagoon yielded American White Pelican, Black-bellied Plover, Dunlin and Least Sandpiper. In the Crockett Lake area, additions included Harlequin Duck, Black Oystercatcher Western Sandpiper.

92 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Wilma, Frank, Phil, Tari, Doug, Carol, Pam T., Jane, Pam P., John E., John H., Val, Judy L., Denny, Amy, Sue B, Robin, Karen, Jeff

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Brant (15), Snow Goose (150), Canada Goose (21), Wood Duck (4), Gadwall (89), American Wigeon (750), Eurasian Wigeon (2), Mallard (22), Northern Shoveler (11), Northern Pintail (53), Green-winged Teal (62), Ring-necked Duck (2), Greater Scaup (7), Harlequin Duck (8), Surf Scoter (208), Bufflehead (42), Barrow’s Goldeneye (1), Red-breasted Merganser (7), Ruddy Duck (6)

LOON, GREBES: Common Loon (1), Pacific Loon (2), Horned Grebe (4), Red-necked Grebe (1), Western Grebe (6)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Pelagic Cormorant (60), American White Pelican (16), Great Blue Heron (7)

RAPTORS: Osprey (9), Northern Harrier (1), Bald Eagle (8), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (1)

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

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (8), Killdeer (3), Black Oystercatcher (3), Whimbrel (127), Dunlin (19), Least Sandpiper (58), Western Sandpiper (57)

GULLS, TERNS: Bonaparte’s Gulls (417), Short-billed Gull (78), Glaucous-winged Gull (19), Caspian Tern (65)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Pigeon Guillemot (10), Rhinoceros Auklet (5)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (14), Band-tailed Pigeon (5), Eurasian Collared-Dove (3), Mourning Dove (2)

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

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

FLYCATCHERS: Pacific-slope Flycatcher (1)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Hutton’s Vireo (1)

CORVIDS: American Crow (20)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Purple Martin (9), Northern Rough-winged Swallow (6), Tree Swallow (23), Violet-Green Swallow (1), Barn Swallow (17), Cliff Swallow (1)

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

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (5)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (3), House Wren (1), Pacific Wren (2), March Wren (5)

KINGLETS: Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (21)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (10)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Orange-crowned Warbler (2), Common Yellowthroat (4), Yellow Warbler (1), Wilson’s Warbler (2)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (5), Savannah Sparrow (3), Song Sparrow (4), White-crowned Sparrow (4), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1), Dark-eyed Junco (4)

TANAGERS, GROSBEAKS: Black-headed Grosbeak (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (28), Brown-headed Cowbird (4)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (5), American Goldfinch (8), House Sparrow (6)

Trip Report: Sequim

Photo: Black Oystercatcher by Philip Dickinson

April 25, 2023

Frank Caruso led a huge turnout on one of our most popular trips, and we were rewarded with a beautiful day and lots of birds in Sequim after some morning clouds. On the ferry ride to Kingston, we saw at least 180 Bonaparte’s Gulls. After seeing dozens of Pigeon Guillemots swimming near the Hood Canal Bridge, we stopped along Old Gardiner Road and then at Gardner Beach, where we saw Western Grebe, Harlequin Duck, Common Loon and Osprey. At our lunch stop at John Wayne Marina, we were entertained by a Black Oystercatcher, Marbled Murrelets, Rhinoceros Auklets and a Merlin. Highlights at Three Crabs and Dungeness Landing Park were Marbled Godwit, Short-billed Dowitcher, Whimbrel, Black-bellied Plover and Brants.

71 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Frank, Phil, Rex, Dianna, Tari, Doug, Carlos, Carol, Maureen Z., Pam T., Catha, Pat M., Marcia, Teri, Bruce, Melinda, Lonnie, Louise, Shelley, Jane, Wilma, Pam, John E., John H., Graham, Robin, Judy L. Lianne

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Brant (208), Canada Goose (4), Gadwall (7), American Wigeon (4), Mallard (1200), Eurasian Wigeon (2), Mallard (14), Northern Shoveler (3), Green-winged Teal (100), Harlequin Duck (3), Surf Scoter (15), Bufflehead (44), Common Goldeneye (4), Hooded Merganser (1), Common Merganser (6), Red-breasted Merganser (32)

LOON, GREBES: Common Loon (7), Horned Grebe (9), Red-necked Grebe (1), Western Grebe (14

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Pelagic Cormorant (4), Double-crested Cormorant (7), Great Blue Heron (4)

RAPTORS: Osprey (1), Bald Eagle (18), Red-tailed Hawk (1), Merlin (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (5), Killdeer (2), Black Oystercatcher (2), Whimbrel (1), Marbled Godwit (1), Greater Yellowlegs (1), Dunlin (25), Short-billed Dowitcher (14)

GULLS, TERNS: Bonaparte’s Gulls (180), Short-billed Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (100), Western Gull (1), Caspian Tern (2)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Common Murre (1), Pigeon Guillemot (32), Marbled Murrelet (6), Rhinoceros Auklet (6)

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

HUMMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

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

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (1) American Crow (16), Common Raven (2)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Violet-Green Swallow (9), Barn Swallow (3)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Chestnut-backed Chickadee (1)

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

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (15)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (2)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Orange-crowned Warbler (10, Yellow-rumped Warbler (1), Townsend’s Warbler (2)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (1), Savannah Sparrow (4), Song Sparrow (6), White-crowned Sparrow (16), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1), Dark-eyed Junco (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (9), Brewer’s Blackbird (1), Brown-headed Cowbird (6)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (4), American Goldfinch (5), House Sparrow (1)

Trip Report: Union Bay/Magnuson Park

Photo: Great Blue Heron by Philip Dickinson

April 18, 2023

There was a stiff breeze off the water and the forecast was miserable, but we had some sun and never more than a few drops of rain. Thanks for watching over us, Virginia. Ducks and Great Blue Herons in the marshes of Union Bay Natural Area, Washington Arboretum and Magnuson Park were in fine plumage. We even saw the brown neck ring on one Ring-necked Duck. We also counted at least five Myrtle subspecies of Audubon Warbler. Other bird highlights were a close encounter with a Cooper’s Hawk, nesting Ospreys, a Virginia Rail, Bushtits and a Bushtit nest. Mammal sightings were a pair of raccoons and a river otter at Union Bay.

50 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Dianna, Tari, Doug, Carlos, Carol, Rick, Maureen T., Maureen Z., Pam T., Catha, Pat M., Marcia, Ginger, David

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (14), Wood Duck (5), Gadwall (12), American Wigeon (4), Mallard (19), Northern Shoveler (21), Northern Pintail (2), Ring-necked Duck (10), Bufflehead (3), Hooded Merganser (2)

LOON, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (9)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (3), Great Blue Heron (8)

RAPTORS: Osprey (3), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Bald Eagle (6), Red-tailed Hawk (2),

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (1), American Coot (62)

GULLS, TERNS: Glaucous-winged Gull (6)

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

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (4)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (2) American Crow (38), Common Raven (2)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Northern Rough-winged Swallow (1), Tree Swallow (7), Violet-Green Swallow (16), Barn Swallow (4)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (26), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (1), BUSHTIT (7)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (7), Marsh Wren (3)

KINGLETS: Ruby-crowned Kinglet (6)

THRUSHES: American Robin (6)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (2)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (12)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (4), Song Sparrow (17), White-crowned Sparrow (1), Golden-crowned Sparrow (3), Dark-eyed Junco (8)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (19)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (5), American Goldfinch (11)

Trip Report: Nisqually

Photo: Pied-billed Grebe by Philip Dickinson

April 11, 2023

We drove through heavy rain, but once at Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually NWR we had only a few drips and the sun arrived by mid-morning to make for a nice day of wandering the Refuge trails. Our morning began with singing Orange-crowned Warbler and Purple Finch. Near the orchard, we spied a Merlin high in a cottonwood. Numerous wigeon, shoveler, teal and coot swam in the wetlands. There also were several Greater Yellowlegs and Violet-green Swallow. The boardwalk was quiet, but we did see Wood Duck. Along the dike, we found two Common Yellowthroats and a Myrtle Warbler, while a Caspian Tern and Least Sandpipers joined Short-billed Gulls on the flats. At lunch, we were entertained by a male Hooded Merganser and a fish-eating Pied-billed Grebe. Our afternoon on the east boardwalk yielded Northern-rough Winged Swallow, Brown Creeper and Pileated Woodpecker.

58 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Dianna, Frank, Carol, Tari, Ed, Sue P., Denny, Rick, Graham, Catha, Lonnie

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Cackling Goose (275), Canada Goose (6), Wood Duck (3), Gadwall (1), American Wigeon (45), Mallard (47), Northern Shoveler (89), Northern Pintail (13), Ring-necked Duck (34), Green-winged Teal (250), Bufflehead (11), Common Goldeneye (4), Hooded Merganser (2), Common Merganser (11), Red-breasted Merganser (1)

LOON, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (3)

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

RAPTORS: Cooper’s Hawk (1), Bald Eagle (5), Red-tailed Hawk (1), Merlin (1)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (63)

SHOREBIRDS: Least Sandpiper (8), Greater Yellowlegs (14)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (100), Ring-billed Gull (1) Glaucous-winged Gull (25), Caspian Tern (1)

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

HUMMMINGBIRDS: Rufous Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

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

CORVIDS: American Crow (9), Common Raven (2)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Northern Rough-winged Swallow (1), Tree Swallow (15), Violet-Green Swallow (25), Barn Swallow (3)

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

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (3)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (2), Pacific Wren (1), Marsh Wren (3)

KINGLETS: Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (18)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (1)

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

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (1), Song Sparrow (17), Golden-crowned Sparrow (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (3)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (7), American Goldfinch (4)

Trip Report: Snohomish

Photo: Wood Duck by Philip Dickinson

April 4, 2023

A cool but pleasant day started off with a bang when everyone got eyes on a Townsend’s Warbler and heard Varied Thrush at Ferguson Park. Moving downhill to Blackman Lake, we saw several duck species, including Ruddy Duck and Common Goldeneye, Yellow-rumped Warbler and American Goldfinch. At Riverview Refuge, Rufous Hummingbird, Lincoln’s Sparrow and Wood Duck were highlights. Then at Bob Heirman Preserve, we heard American Bittern and watched a hybrid Red-shafted/Yellow-shafted Flicker lunch on ants. Some afternoon birds were Western Meadowlark, a raft of Common Merganser, Northern Harrier and Merlin.

65 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Dianna, Robin, Frank, Marty, Pam P., Wilma, Amy, Carol, Sue B., Denny, Ray, Karen, Doug

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (38), Wood Duck (4), Gadwall (21), American Wigeon (11), Mallard (89), Northern Shoveler (12), Northern Pintail (6), Ring-necked Duck (34), Lesser Scaup (234), Bufflehead (11), Common Goldeneye (1), Hooded Merganser (3), Common Merganser (25), Ruddy Duck (14)

LOON, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (4)

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

RAPTORS: Turkey Vulture (1), Northern Harrier (1), Bald Eagle (4), Red-tailed Hawk (3), American Kestrel (2), Merlin (1)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (50)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (1)

GULLS, TERNS: Glaucous-winged Gull (2)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (100)

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

WOODPECKERS: Downy Woodpecker (1), Northern Flicker (6)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (4) American Crow (85), Common Raven (13)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (4), Violet-Green Swallow (27)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (11), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (1), BUSHTIT (6)

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

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

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (20), Varied Thrush (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (2)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (2), Townsend’s Warbler (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (6), Song Sparrow (13), Fox Sparrow (1), Lincoln’s Sparrow (1), White-crowned Sparrow (2), Golden-crowned Sparrow (7), Dark-eyed Junco (4)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (3)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (3), American Goldfinch (6)

Trip Report: Mid-Whidbey Island

Photo: Red-breasted Merganser by Mick Thompson

March 28, 2023

It was a beautiful sunny spring day as we were taking off extra coats at the first stop. At Rosario Beach springtime was evident as the Horned Grebes were displaying their breeding colors. At Rosario and at West Beach we found many Pigeon Guillemots, and Red-breasted Mergansers. Also found the Black Oystercatchers, Harlequin Ducks and Brandt’s Cormorants. At Cranberry Lake we found our first Orange-crowned Warbler for the year plus chickadees, creepers, and other small birds. At Dugualla Bay the Canvasbacks were diving in the pond. Northern Pintails, Red-breasted Mergansers, Pigeon Guillemots, and goldeneyes were observed at many stops.

72 Species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Victor, Wilma, Graham, John E, Pam P., Diana, Val, Judy, Pam T., Vicki, Marty, Maureen Z, Maureen T, Bev, Melinda, Amy, Reg, Ken, John H., Barry, Denny

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (81), Trumpeter Swan (6), Gadwall (3), American Wigeon (16), Mallard (47), Northern Pintail (311), Green-winged Teal (45), Canvasback (15), Ring-necked Duck (8), Greater Scaup (1), Lesser Scaup (29), Harlequin Duck (12), Surf Scoter (21), Bufflehead (133), Common Goldeneye (35), Barrow's Goldeneye (4), Hooded Merganser (8), Red-breasted Merganser (68), Ruddy Duck (15)

GALLINACEOUS BIRDS: California Quail (6)

LOONS, GREBES: Common Loon (6), Pied-billed Grebe (1), Horned Grebe (35), Red-necked Grebe (7)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (32), Double-crested Cormorant (17), Pelagic Cormorant (10), Great Blue Heron (9)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (9), Cooper's Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (3)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (18)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (1), Black Oystercatcher (7), Greater Yellowlegs (10), Black Turnstone (2)

GULLS: Short-billed Gull (14), Glaucous-winged Gull (108)

ALCIDS: Common Murre (1), Pigeon Guillemot (37)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (25)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna's Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

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

CORVIDS: American Crow (28), Common Raven (1)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (3), Violet-green Swallow (1)

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

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

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

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (2)

THRUSHES: American Robin (30)

STARLING: European Starling (216)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Orange-crowned Warbler (1), Yellow-rumped Warbler (7)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Fox Sparrow (2), Song Sparrow (10), White-crowned Sparrow (6), Golden-crowned Sparrow (7), Dark-eyed Junco (11)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (16), Brewer's Blackbird (6)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (2), House Finch (6), Red Crossbill (3), American Goldfinch (3)

Trip Report: Reifel Bird Sanctuary

Photo: Black-crowned Night-Heron by Philip Dickinson

March 21, 2023

All 21 members of our group were thrilled to visit the Reifel Bird Sanctuary in British Columbia, both those who had never enjoyed the experience and those returning for the first time since the pre-Covid days of 2019. We saw Great Horned Owls nesting near the entrance to the parking lot, even before the Wood Ducks, chickadees and blackbirds began eating out of our hands. After lunch, docent Kathleen ensured we had good looks at the Black-crowned Night Herons. We then ended our visit with closeups of the three resident Sandhill Cranes.

48 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Denny, Jane, Pat M., Judy Lo., Val, Ken, Rex, Wilma, Pam P. John E., Carol, Bev, Karen, Pam T., Victor, Rick, Ann, Larry, Barry, Mike K.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (25), Trumpeter Swan (1), Wood Duck (12), Gadwall (20), Eurasian Wigeon (2), American Wigeon (120), Mallard (1000), Northern Pintail (35), Northern Shoveler (35), Green-winged Teal (5), Lesser Scaup (9), Bufflehead (8), Hooded Merganser (9), Common Merganser (2)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Great Blue Heron (29), Black-crowned Night Heron (2)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (25), Sandhill Crane (3)

RAPTORS: Northern Harrier (1), Bald Eagle (35), Red-tailed Hawk (1), Great Horned Owl (2)

GULLS, TERNS: Glaucous-winged Gull (2)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (9)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (2)

CORVIDS: American Crow (12), Common Raven (5)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (100), Violet-Green Swallow (2)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (24)

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

KINGLETS: Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (13)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (51), Fox Sparrow (30), Song Sparrow (80), White-crowned Sparrow (4), Golden-crowned Sparrow (9), Dark-eyed Junco (3)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (45)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (2), House Sparrow (40)

Trip Report: Port Townsend

Photo: Hooded Merganser by Philip Dickinson

March 14, 2023

This trip was rescheduled after a ferry problem in February. We enjoyed sunny skies, although there was a stiff breeze off the water during the morning. Hooded mergansers and an Anna’s Hummingbird entertained us at Port Ludlow. After watching Black Turnstones and Harlequin Ducks at Indian Island, we headed to Marrowstone Island and Fort Flagler. Highlights there were Black-bellied Plovers, Sanderlings, Brants, and Black Oystercatchers. At Point Wilson, hundreds of Rhinoceros Auklets gathered on the water, while Common Murres, Ancient Murrelets and Marbled Murrelets also moved through the channel. Overall, it was a nice day of birding.

64 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Dianna, Denny, Jane, Pat M., Judy Lo., Maureen Z., Ken, Reg, Wilma, Pam P. Carol, Frank, Bev, Bruce, Val, John H. Karen, Graham, Sue B. Betty, Jamie

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Brant (150), Canada Goose (14), American Wigeon (165), Mallard (15), Northern Pintail (38), Green-winged Teal (33), Greater Scaup (200), Harlequin Duck (8), Surf Scoter (6), Bufflehead (48), Common Goldeneye (20), Hooded Merganser (3), Common Merganser (4), Red-breasted Merganser (5)

LOONS, GREBES: Pacific Loon (1), Common Loon (5), Horned Grebe (11), Red-necked Grebe (9)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (39), Pelagic Cormorant (25), Brandt’s Cormorant (2), Great Blue Heron (8)

RAPTORS: Northern Harrier (1), Bald Eagle (4), Red-tailed Hawk (2)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (35), Killdeer (6), Black Oystercatcher (2), Greater Yellowlegs (3), Black Turnstone (17), Sanderling (10), Dunlin (20)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (85), Glaucous-winged Gull (23)

ALCIDS: Common Murre (100), Pigeon Guillemot (16), Marbled Murrelet (12), Ancient Murrelet (20), Rhinoceros Auklet (400)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (10), Mourning Dove (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (6)

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

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (3), American Crow (19), Common Raven (3)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (3)

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

KINGLETS: Ruby-crowned Kinglet (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (27)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (4), Fox Sparrow (15), Song Sparrow (9), White-crowned Sparrow (2), Golden-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eyed Junco (7)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Western Meadowlark (2)

 FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (2), House Finch (4)

Trip Report: Kiket Island

Photo: Black Oystercatcher by Mick Thompson

March 7, 2023

A sunny harbinger of spring made for a pleasant and productive day of birding around the La Connor area. At Kiket Island, we saw our first Black Oystercatchers of the day, several Red-breasted Mergansers and Horned Grebes. We also heard Hutton’s Vireo and Great Horned Owl. At Similk Beach we watched Wilson’s Snipe and 17 additional oystercatchers. Our drive around March Point yielded Greater Yellowlegs, Brants and still more oystercatchers. We ended the day at the Fir Island Hayton Reserve with a Canvasback and a flock of Dunlin.

65 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Dianna, Denny, Rex, Jane, Rick, Teri, Ed, Sue, Judy Lo., Maureen T., Ken, Reg, Wilma, Pam P. Brian, Milt, Carol, Tari

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (60), Brant (120), Canada Goose (4), Trumpeter Swan (200), American Wigeon (126), Gadwall (20), Mallard (525), Northern Pintail (420), Green-winged Teal (100), Canvasback (1), Greater Scaup (10), Lesser Scaup (4), Surf Scoter (3), Bufflehead (84), Common Goldeneye (29), Hooded Merganser (10), Common Merganser (5), Red-breasted Merganser (16)

LOONS, GREBES: Common Loon (2), Pied-billed Grebe (2), Horned Grebe (5)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (126), Pelagic Cormorant (4), Great Blue Heron (8)

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

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (1), Black Oystercatcher (22), Greater Yellowlegs (6), Dunlin (300), Wilson’s Snipe (3)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (30), Ring-billed Gull (15), California Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (105)

ALCIDS: Pigeon Guillemot (3)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Eurasian Collared-Dove (20), Mourning Dove (1)

OWLS: Great Horned Owl (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

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

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Hutton’s Vireo (1)

CORVIDS: American Crow (2), Common Raven (3)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Chestnut-backed Chickadee (4)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (5), Brown Creeper (1)

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (15)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (5)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (3), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (6), Golden-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eyed Junco (17)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (6), Brewer’s Blackbird (1000)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (1)

Trip Report: Silvana Roads

Photo: Brewer’s Blackbird by Rex Guichard

February 21, 2023

When handed lemons, make lemonade! With morning ferries out of commission, we pivoted from our planned trip to Port Townsend and drove to the Stillaguamish Valley. In the morning, little birds were hiding, but we saw numerous Brewer’s Blackbird, Trumpeter Swan, American Wigeon, Green-winged Teal and Bald Eagle. Later, along Boe Rd. some saw a Short-eared Owl and a Wilson’s Snipe, and all got good looks at Western Meadowlarks and Snow Geese. On Thomle Rd., a rare Harris’s Sparrow gave a great show. It was a life bird for several in the group. Other good sightings included Cooper’s Hawk, Northern Harrier and American Kestrel.

46 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Dianna, Jane, Pam T., Frank, Rick, Teri, John H., Marcia, Pat M.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (3000), Canada Goose (2), Trumpeter Swan (883), Tundra Swan (2), American Wigeon (4000), Gadwall (32), Mallard (216), Northern Shoveler (6), Northern Pintail (72), Green-winged Teal (660), Common Merganser (3).

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

RAPTORS: Northern Harrier (7), Bald Eagle (69), Cooper’s Hawk (2), Red-tailed Hawk (6), American Kestrel (5)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (5)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (7), Dunlin (1000), Wilson’s Snipe (1)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (239), Glaucous-winged Gull (167)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (36), Eurasian Collared-Dove (20)

OWLS: Short-eared Owl (1)

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

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (3) American Crow (2), Common Raven (18)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (2)

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (202)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (235)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (3), Song Sparrow (7), Harris’s Sparrow (1), White-crowned Sparrow (15), Golden-crowned Sparrow (3), Dark-eyed Junco (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (140), Western Meadowlark (7), Brewer’s Blackbird (140)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (3), House Sparrow (3)

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)