Trip Report: Samish Flats

Photo: Short-eared Owl by Philip Dickinson

January 23, 2024

Once again, the weather defied a rainy forecast, and we got off to a good start at Little Indian Slough with our first Short-eared Owl, Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier and Hooded Merganser. At Bay View State Park, a Merlin kept the woods quiet, but a huge raft of Snow Geese floated in Padilla Bay along with Greater Scaup, Bufflehead, Common Goldeneye and Red-breasted Merganser. Highlights along Sullivan Rd. were hundreds of Mallard, American Wigeon and Dunlin, three Eurasian Wigeon and 21 Black-bellied Plover. At the West 90, a Rough-legged Hawk accompanied several Red-tailed Hawk and Western Meadowlark. The waterfowl off Samish Island were far away but included Long-tailed Duck, Brant, Pacific and Red-throated Loon, Common Murre and White-winged Scoter. The raptor show at East 90 met the hype with another Rough-legged Hawk, several Bald Eagle and seven Short-eared Owl. We ended the day with a Great Egret, thousands of Snow Geese and dozens of Tundra Swan along Calhoun Rd.

59 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Dianne, Graham, Wilma, Frank, Ken, Pam T., Rick, Reg, Melinda, Bruce, Jon, Karen, Robin, Tari, Doug C., Judy Lo., Denny, Val, Pat, Marcia, Gary, Lloyd, Lorraine, Hans

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (14,000), Brant (20), Trumpeter Swan (500), Tundra Swan (60), Northern Shoveler (3), Eurasian Wigeon (3), American Wigeon (1500), Mallard (3125), Northern Pintail (155), Green-winged Teal (16), Greater Scaup (100), Surf Scoter (2), White-winged Scoter (3), Long-tailed Duck (4), Bufflehead (26), Common Goldeneye (32), Hooded Merganser (9), Red-breasted Merganser (4)

LOON, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (1), Pacific Loon (1), Common Loon (2), Red-necked Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (8), Great Blue Heron (7)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (39), Northern Harrier (5), Rough-legged Hawk (2), Red-tailed Hawk (11), American Kestrel (2), Merlin (2)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (21), Dunlin (1200)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (300), Ring-billed Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (6)

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

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

OWLS: Short-eared Owl (7)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (1)

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

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (2000)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (4), Song Sparrow (6), Fox Sparrow (4), Golden-crowned Sparrow (27), Dark-eyed Junco (3)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (860), Western Meadowlark (14), Brewer’s Blackbird (25)

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Looking for more local places to go birding?

Check out our newly revised, 3rd edition of Birding in Snohomish County & Camano Island, a field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington.

Birding in Snohomish County and Camano Island, 3rd Edition

$20.00

A field guide to the best birding locations in Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington

A full-color, updated and expanded 3rd edition of Philip Zalesky’s original book, Birding in Snohomish County and Camano Island, 3rd Edition is a celebration of the variety and bountiful birding locations in the area. With habitats ranging from marine to alpine, the diversity of species that can be found here are a birder’s dream.

This new edition covers more than 80 locations, noting general information about the sites and which birds are common at each. Philip Zalesky’s original site descriptions have been revised and updated, including new observations, recent sightings, and historical and natural history information. Our local birders have added their own interesting anecdotes, including the many ways things have changed since the 2nd edition was published in 2001. Local bird photographers have contributed over 100 full-color photographs showing the splendor of our local birds and the wondrous beauty of the birding habitats found in our area. A checklist includes all 355 species of birds ever sighted in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

154 pages

Shipping: $8 for the first book, plus $2 for each additional copy

Pilchuck Audubon chapter members can receive 10% off all items in our store. Ask about our member discount code by contacting director@pilchuckaudubon.org.

Add to cart

A full-color, updated and expanded 3rd edition of Philip Zalesky’s original book, Birding in Snohomish County and Camano Island, 3rd Edition is a celebration of the variety and bountiful birding locations in the area. With habitats ranging from marine to alpine, the diversity of species that can be found here are a birder’s dream.

This new edition covers more than 80 locations, noting general information about the sites and which birds are common at each. Philip Zalesky’s original site descriptions have been revised and updated, including new observations, recent sightings, and historical and natural history information. Our local birders have added their own interesting anecdotes, including the many ways things have changed since the 2nd edition was published in 2001. Local bird photographers have contributed over 100 full-color photographs showing the splendor of our local birds and the wondrous beauty of the birding habitats found in our area. A checklist includes all 355 species of birds ever sighted in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

We hope this book will guide you to new areas you haven’t explored yet, or give you an idea of where to start if you’re visiting Western Washington.

All proceeds will help fund local conservation efforts in Snohomish County and Camano Island.

Trip Report: Camano Island

Photo: Barred Owl by Graham Hutchison

January 16, 2024

In sub-freezing temperatures, Graham Hutchison led hearty birders around several sites on northern Camano Island. At Smith Lake, sightings included Gadwall, Ring-necked Duck, Red-breasted Sapsucker and Golden-crowned Kinglet. A highlight at popular Barnum Point Preserve was a Barred Owl, but the group also saw both Common and Barrow’s Goldeneye, Surf Scoter, Red-breasted Merganser and Horned Grebe on the water and Brown Creeper, Varied Thrush and Fox Sparrow in the woods. A Northern Harrier and five dozen Trumpeter Swan also showed nearby along Sunrise Boulevard. Fox Trot Way was productive with waterfowl including American and Eurasian Wigeon, Greater Yellowlegs, hundreds of Northern Pintail and thousands of Dunlin. Finally, Iverson Point featured 10 Long-tailed Duck, Red-throated Loon, Virginia Rail and Wilson’s Snipe.

52 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Graham, Phil, Dianne, John H., Pam T., Rick, Teri, Reg, Tari, Doug C. Ray, Carlos, Judy Lo., Denny

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Trumpeter Swan (62), Northern Shoveler (1), Gadwall (2), Eurasian Wigeon (1), American Wigeon (500), Mallard (15), Northern Pintail (1000), Green-winged Teal (3), Ring-necked Duck (25), Greater Scaup (50), Surf Scoter (115), Long-tailed Duck (10), Bufflehead (15), Common Goldeneye (5), Barrow’s Goldeneye (3), Hooded Merganser (1), Red-breasted Merganser (8)

LOON, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (3), Horned Grebe (9)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (8), Great Blue Heron (2)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (4), Northern Harrier (2)

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

SHOREBIRDS: Greater Yellowlegs (2), Dunlin (3000), Wilson’s Snipe (1)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (20), Ring-billed Gull (77), Glaucous-winged Gull (17)

OWLS: Barred Owl (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

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

CORVIDS: American Crow (1)

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

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (1)

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

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (4), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (2)

THRUSHES: American Robin (45), Varied Thrush (8)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (2)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (12), Song Sparrow (11), Fox Sparrow (8), Dark-eyed Junco (6)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (3)

Trip Report: Monroe to Carnation

Photo: Northern Shoveler by Philip Dickinson

January 9, 2024

The forecast was for a very wet, very windy day, but we had only a ten-minute shower and moderate breeze with only a couple of brief gusts. Virginia Clark must still be talking with Mother Nature. At Lake Tye and Lord’s Lake in Monroe, our sightings included Trumpeter Swan, Northern Harrier, Bald Eagle, Greater and Lesser Scaup, Pied-billed Grebe, Common Goldeneye, Snow Goose and American Wigeon. The breeze did minimize songbird activity in the Crescent Lake area, but we found large flocks of Dark-eyed Junco, Brewer’s Blackbird and Cackling Goose, along with Cooper’s Hawk, Red-tailed Hawk, Belted Kingfisher, Great Blue Heron and Hooded Merganser. The Snoqualmie River Trail at Stillwater produced Mourning Dove, Downy Woodpecker, Ring-necked Duck, Gadwall and Northern Shoveler, among others. We finished the day at Sikes Lake padding our count of several species and adding Common Merganser.

48 Species (Approx. Qty)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Dianne, Denny, Graham, Wilma, Rick, Pam T., Maureen Z., Ken, Teri, Jane, Gary, Karen, Judy B., Robin

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (27), Cackling Goose (1150), Canada Goose (195), Trumpeter Swan (320), Northern Shoveler (10), Gadwall (3), American Wigeon (1000), Mallard (315), Northern Pintail (135), Green-winged Teal (22), Ring-necked Duck (4), Greater Scaup (2), Lesser Scaup (6), Bufflehead (2), Common Goldeneye (1), Hooded Merganser (7), Common Merganser (3)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (6)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (8), Great Blue Heron (5)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (11), Northern Harrier (2), Cooper’s Hawk (2), Red-tailed Hawk (7)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (240)

GULLS: Short-billed Gull (150), Ring-billed Gull (3), Glaucous-winged Gull (230)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (6), Eurasian Collared-Dove (6), Mourning Dove (4)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (3)

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

CORVIDS: Steller's Jay (3), American Crow (210), Common Raven (5)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (3)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (570)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (3), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (6), White-crowned Sparrow (3), Dark-eyed Junco (24)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (56), Brewer's Blackbird (500)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Sparrow (24)

Book recommendation: The Hidden Half of Nature

The Hidden Half of Nature

By David R. Montgomery and Anne Biklé

A Seattle couple’s delightful journey of discovery into the microbial world and how it sustains us and our ecosystems.

What I liked about this book:

I finally understand the why behind the benefits of regenerative gardening and the unsustainability of industrial/chemical-based agriculture. Plus, the implications for my personal health.

Who might enjoy this book:

An eye opener for gardeners and those interested in agricultural sustainability. Also, those dealing with chronic illness, or simply wanting to promote their personal health and resilience.

More about the book:

Montgomery is a University of Washington Professor studying soil science, and Bickle is a biologist. Together they open a window to the amazing world of microorganisms and their symbiotic relationships with both plants and humans. Drawing from personal experiences as well as their strong scientific backgrounds, Montgomery and Bickle present a well-documented case for reconsidering the role of microorganisms—instead of disease-causing villains, they are revealed as indispensable partners in maintaining our health and the health of our planet’s ecosystems.

———

Recommended by William M., a volunteer with Pilchuck Audubon Society. His thoughts and opinions in this review are entirely his own and do not represent those of Pilchuck Audubon.

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Support Pilchuck Audubon when you get your copy!

Pilchuck Audubon is an affiliate of Bookshop.org and receives a commission when you order books from our Bookshop.org storefront or click through our link and make a purchase.

Pilchuck Audubon Society is a grass-roots environmental organization representing Snohomish County and Camano Island, Washington, whose mission is to conserve and restore natural ecosystems focusing on birds and other wildlife.

Trip Report: Lummi Flats

Photo: Semipalmated Plover by Philip Dickinson

December 12, 2023

We could not have had a better day as weather was sunny, cool and calm. Led by Rex Guichard, our first stop along the S. Red River Road had Rough-legged Hawks, multiple Northern Harriers, American Kestrels and lots of ducks. We saw one of our two Northern Shrikes on N. Red River Road. We spent much time at Sandy Point, where a seasonally rare Semi-Palmated Plover was among the 18 Killdeer. We also enjoyed watching the Dunlin flying and Black Turnstones. There was a huge number of Brant off the southeast shore. Our last stop was at Portage Point. Lots of Scoters were there - both Surf and White-winged – and our first Barrow’s Goldeneye, but we did not find a Black Scoter. One car stopped by the East 90 on the way home and saw ten Short-eared Owls.

63 Species (Approx. Qty.)

Attendees: Jeff, Wilma, Rex, Robin, Judy, Kameron, Ken, Dianna, Denny, Marcia, Pam, Pat, Rick, John, Lisa, Bruce, Daren, Maureen, Doug C., Ray, Gary, Leanne

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Brant (250), Canada Goose (50), Trumpeter Swan (47), Eurasian Wigeon (1), American Wigeon (235), Mallard (92), Northern Shoveler (8), Northern Pintail (278), Greater Scaup (1), Lesser Scaup (2), Surf Scoter (230), White-winged Scoter (35), Long-tailed Duck (7), Bufflehead (23), Common Goldeneye (37), Barrow's Goldeneye (2), Common Merganser (4), Red-breasted Merganser (3), Ruddy Duck (2)

LOONS, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (6), Pacific Loon (1), Common Loon (5), Horned Grebe (19), Red-necked Grebe (1), Western Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brant’s Cormorant (2), Double-crested Cormorant (11), Pelagic Cormorant (5), Great Blue Heron (5)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (12), Northern Harrier (20), Red-tailed Hawk (7), Rough-legged Hawk (5), American Kestrel (2), Merlin (1)

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Semipalmated Plover (1), Killdeer (19), Black Turnstone (30), Dunlin (175)

GULLS: Glaucous-winged (10), Western-glaucous hybrid (30)

ALCIDS: Pigeon Guillemot (2), Marbled Murrelet (3)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (45), Eurasian Collared-Dove (2)

OWLS: Short-eared Owl (10)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (1)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Northern Shrike (2)

CORVIDS: American Crow (28)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (3)

THRUSHES American Robin (1), Varied Thrush (2)

STARLING: European Starling (50)

SPARROW, TANAGERS: Spotted Towhee (2), Song Sparrow (4), Dark-eyed Junco (4)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (37), Western Meadowlark (4), Brewer's Blackbird (8)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (20), Pine Siskin (30), House Sparrow (6)

Trip Report: Snohomish

Photo: Lesser Scaup by Philip Dickinson

November 28, 2023

Our day began with a Northern Hawk Owl in the parking lot, beautifully carved by Rex Guichard. We proceeded to survey Blackmans Lake and Ferguson Park, with some notable birds including Ruddy Duck, Common Merganser, Greater Scaup, Bufflehead on the water and Varied Thrush, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Fox Sparrow and Steller’s Jay landside. At Riverview Wildlife Refuge and the Snohomish treatment plant, we added Eurasian Wigeon, Wood Duck, Lesser Scaup, Gadwall, Red-tailed Hawk, Bald Eagle and American Goldfinch. Bob Heirman Wildlife Preserve provided Trumpeter Swan and Tundra Swan, Snow Goose, Common Goldeneye, Pied-billed Grebe, Common Raven, Hooded Merganser and Green-winged Teal. Penny Creek Natural Area was a new place to most of the group and did not disappoint with Cinnamon Teal, Ring-necked Duck, Green Heron and a leucistic Spotted Towhee.

51 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Dianna, Judy Lo., Mary, Doug C., Doug E., Carlos, Sherry, Ken, Reg, Rick, Pam T., Karen, Bruce, Wilma, Graham, Sue B., Pam P., John E., Pat, Marcia, John H., Tari, Lisa, Denny, Ellen, Etta, Bev W.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (1), Canada Goose (24), Trumpeter Swan (50), Tundra Swan (1), Wood Duck (7), Cinnamon Teal (2), Northern Shoveler (36), Gadwall (50), Eurasian Wigeon (1), American Wigeon (19), Mallard (350), Green-winged Teal (412), Ring-necked Duck (56 ), Greater Scaup (1), Lesser Scaup (175), Bufflehead (50), Common Goldeneye (1), Hooded Merganser (19), Common Merganser (15), Ruddy Duck (21)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (9)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (32), Great Blue Heron (6), Green Heron (1)

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

RAILS, CRANES: American Coot (57)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (3), Ring-billed Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (20)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (3)

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

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (7), American Crow (80), Common Raven (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (12), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (1)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (2)

WRENS: Bewick’s Wren (2)

KINGLETS: Ruby-crowned Kinglet (5)

THRUSHES: American Robin (6), Varied Thrush (3)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (23)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (3), Fox Sparrow (3), Song Sparrow (7), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1), Dark-eyed Junco (4)

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

Trip Report: Montlake/Magnuson

Photo: American Bittern by Philip Dickinson

November 14, 2023

It was chilly but calm and sunny for the start of our day at Union Bay Natural Area aka Montlake Fill. Yessler Swamp was quiet, but we did find Pied-billed Grebe, Gadwall, Hooded Merganser, Brown Creeper and Fox Sparrow. As the morning progressed, we saw Bald Eagle, American Coot (hundreds), Northern Shoveler, Bufflehead, Ruddy Duck, Anna’s Hummingbird, Yellow-rumped Warbler and Great Blue Heron. Then a young cyclist alerted us that an American Bittern was at the southwest pond. At Magnuson Park, at least 70 Western Grebe paraded along Lake Washington. On Promontory Point, fall trees provided food for Cedar Waxwing, Downy Woodpecker, Bewick’s Wren, Varied Thrush and many American Robin. However, the park highlight was a rare Swamp Sparrow we found in the marsh thanks to the ears of Frank Caruso. We finished our day at Kenmore’s Tracy Owen Park with Common Merganser (dozens), American Wigeon (hundreds), more American Coot (thousands), and Lesser Scaup.

52 Species (Approx. Qty)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Diane, Denny, John H., Lisa, Doug C., Doug E., Lianne, Bruce, Frank, Jane, Karen, Teri, Melinda, Rick, Reg, Gary

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (37), Northern Shoveler (29), Gadwall (39), American Wigeon (650), Mallard (3), Northern Pintail (20), Green-winged Teal (2), Greater Scaup (12), Lesser Scaup (1), Bufflehead (17), Hooded Merganser (7), Common Merganser (76), Ruddy Duck (2)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (14), Western Grebe (70)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (11), American Bittern (1) Great Blue Heron (3)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (2)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (1), American Coot (3300)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (1)

GULLS: Ring-billed Gull (60), Glaucous-winged Gull (7)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna's Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

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

CORVIDS: Steller's Jay (2), American Crow (43)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (6)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (1)

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (31), Varied Thrush (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (34)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (3)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Yellow-rumped Warbler (10)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (5), Fox Sparrow (5), Song Sparrow (16), Swamp Sparrow (1), Golden-crowned Sparrow (3), Dark-eyed Junco (6)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (2)

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

Trip Report: North Whidbey

Photo: Harlequin Duck by Philip Dickinson

November 7, 2023

Our day began at March Point with sightings of Surf Scoter, Lesser Scaup, Red-necked Grebe, Dunlin, Horned Grebe and Common Loon. At Lake Erie and Campbell Lake, new species included Pine Siskin, Ruby- and Golden-crowned Kinglet, Common Merganser, Ring-necked Duck, Ruddy Duck, Downy Woodpecker, Brown Creeper, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Fox Sparrow and Virginia Rail. Bufflehead and Dark-eyed Juncos were numerous. At Rosario Beach, strong winds created spectacular surf but challenged our birding skills. Nevertheless, highlights were three cormorant species, Common Murre, Western Grebe, Black Oystercatcher, Hermit Thrush and ten Harlequin Duck. Bowman Bay offered great looks at Pacific Wren and many Short-billed Gull. At Deception Pass after lunch, the sea swells occasionally revealed White-winged Scoter, Red-throated, Pacific and Common Loon, Pigeon Guillemot, Ancient Murrelet and Red-breasted Merganser. At Cornet Bay, we added Bonaparte’s Gull, Bewick’s Wren, Black-capped and Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Hooded Merganser and American Wigeon. On the way home, we passed a flock of several thousand Snow Geese along Highway 20.

71 Species (Approx. Qty)

Attendees: Phil, Val, Merilee, Judy Lo., Dianne, Tari, Pat, Marcia, Lisa, Barry, Doug C., Bruce, Karen, Frank, Teri, Reg, Maureen T., Pam P., John E., Wilma

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (7000), Canada Goose (80), Trumpeter Swan (25), Northern Shoveler (2), American Wigeon (6), Mallard (1), Ring-necked Duck (17), Lesser Scaup (86), Harlequin Duck (10), Surf Scoter (100), White-winged Scoter (1), Bufflehead (89), Hooded Merganser (12), Common Merganser (3), Ruddy Duck (2)

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

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (1), Pelagic Cormorant (30), Double-crested Cormorant (55), Great Blue Heron (15)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (9), Northern Harrier (2), Red-tailed Hawk (3)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (2), American Coot (6)

SHOREBIRDS: Black Oystercatcher (1), Dunlin (500)

GULLS: Bonaparte’s Gull (1), Ring-billed Gull (1), Glaucous-winged Gull (40)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Common Murre (1), Pigeon Guillemot (3), Ancient Murrelet (2)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Eurasian Collared-Dove (8), Mourning Dove (6)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna's Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (5)

WOODPECKERS: Downy Woodpecker (2), Northern Flicker (5)

CORVIDS: American Crow (22), Common Raven (1)

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

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1), Brown Creeper (7)

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

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (10), Ruby-crowned Kinglet (10)

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

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (42)

WARBLERS, CHAT: Orange-crowned Warbler (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (6), Fox Sparrow (2), Song Sparrow (5), White-crowned Sparrow (1), Golden-crowned Sparrow (1), Dark-eyed Junco (25)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Brewer’s Blackbird (560)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (4), Pine Siskin (100), House Sparrow (2)

Trip Report: Reifel Bird Sanctuary

Photo: American Wigeon by Philip Dickinson

October 31, 2023

Beautiful weather made for a day at one of our most popular destinations even better. One of the local Black-crowned Night Herons greeted us near the entrance, even before Black-capped Chickadees and Red-winged Blackbirds began snacking on handheld seeds. Pine Siskins fed near the trail until a Peregrine Falcon scattered them, while resident Sandhill Cranes strolled the marsh. As usual there were thousands of ducks – Mallard, American Wigeon, Gadwall, Northern Shoveler, Northern Pintail, Hooded Merganser and others. We also saw several Fox and Golden-crowned Sparrows. Four American Avocets were a highlight for some of us, but others missed them. Northern Shrike, Merlin, Northern Harrier, Long-billed Dowitcher, Purple Finch and hundreds of Cackling Geese were among other sightings. A brief stop at the Boundary Bay dike offered views of hundreds of Dunlin and another Merlin before we headed home.

66 Species (Approx. Qty)

Attendees: Phil, Rick, Jane, Rex, Judy Lo., Dianne, Denny, Pat, Marcia, John H. Lisa, Graham, Shirley, Barry, Doug C., Bruce, Karen, Robin, Lianne, Merilee, Pam P., John E., Sue B., Judy B., Chendur

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (1600), Cackling Goose (500), Canada Goose (50), Trumpeter Swan (12), Northern Shoveler (400), Gadwall (25), American Wigeon (200), Mallard (2000), Wood Duck (1), Northern Pintail (100), Green-winged Teal (8), Ring-necked Duck (4), Greater Scaup (2), Hooded Merganser (25)

GALLINACEOUS BIRDS: Ring-necked Pheasant (2)

LOONS, GREBES: Red-throated Loon (6), Common Loon (4), Pied-billed Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (75), Great Blue Heron (25), Black-crowned Night Heron (1)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (12), Northern Harrier (7), Red-tailed Hawk (2), Merlin (2), Peregrine Falcon (1)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (3), American Coot (21), Sandhill Crane (4)

SHOREBIRDS: American Avocet (4), Black-bellied Plover (4), Greater Yellowlegs (2), Dunlin (2000), Long-billed Dowitcher (3)

GULLS: Ring-billed Gull (3), Glaucous-winged Gull (9)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (7), Eurasian Collared-Dove (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna's Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (3)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (4)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Northern Shrike (1)

CORVIDS: American Crow (14), Common Raven (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (150)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (1)

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

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (28)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (150)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (5)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (8), Savannah Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (18), White-crowned Sparrow (2), Golden-crowned Sparrow (13), Dark-eyed Junco (15)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (125)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (2), House Finch (1), Pine Siskin (40), House Sparrow (25)

Trip Report: Clear Lake

Photo: Short-eared Owl by Philip Dickinson

October 24, 2023

We began our day at the Hansen Creek and Northern State Recreation Area in Sedro-Woolley. The visiting Red-shouldered Hawk was a no-show, but we saw Short-eared Owl, Northern Harrier, Red-tailed Hawk and Cooper’s Hawk. There also were Marsh Wren, Virginia Rail, Dark-eyed Junco and Brown Creeper. Johnson-DeBay Slough yielded American Wigeon, Green-winged Teal, Hooded Merganser and Pine Siskin. Clear Lake had numerous Ring-necked Duck, Bufflehead and Pied-billed Grebe, plus Western Grebe and Hairy Woodpecker. We had great looks at Belted Kingfisher and Downy Woodpecker at Mud Lake. Nearby, we added Anna’s Hummingbird and two flyover Wilson’s Snipe. Just before rain began, we watched an American Kestrel diving on a Red-tailed Hawk at Beaver Lake. At a Clear Lake shelter during lunch, we noticed a Trumpeter Swan. Heading home, we passed a large blackbird flock along Thilberg Rd.

48 Species (Approx. Qty)

Attendees:  Phil, Rex, Judy Lo., Diane, Denny, Pat, Marcia, John H. Lisa, Mary, Graham, Wilma, Doug II, Tari, Bruce, Maureen T., Pam T.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (5), Trumpeter Swan (1), American Wigeon (45), Mallard (56), Green-winged Teal (16), Ring-necked Duck (72), Bufflehead (19), Hooded Merganser (2)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (11), Western Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (9), Great Blue Heron (1)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (4), Northern Harrier (2), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Red-tailed Hawk (7), American Kestrel (2)

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

SHOREBIRDS: Wilson’s Snipe (2)

GULLS: Glaucous-winged Gull (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (200), Mourning Dove (4)

OWLS: Short-eared Owl (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna's Hummingbird (3)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (3)

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

CORVIDS: Steller's Jay (9), American Crow (29), Common Raven (5)

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

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (2)

WRENS: Pacific Wren (1), Marsh Wren (5)

THRUSHES: American Robin (2)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (400)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Song Sparrow (6), Golden-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eyed Junco (16)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (164), Brewer's Blackbird (400), Brown-headed Cowbird (2)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Pine Siskin (35)

Trip Report: Point No Point

Photo: Heermann’s Gull by Philip Dickinson

October 17, 2023

The north shores of Kitsap County always offer great birding. At the Point No Point boat launch and lighthouse, water birds included Ancient and Marbled Murrelet, Rhinoceros Auklet, Common Murre, Common and Pacific Loon, Red-necked and Horned Grebe, Bonaparte’s and Heermann’s Gull, Harlequin Duck, and Parasitic Jaeger. On land, we saw California Scrub Jay, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Brown Creeper, Ruby-crowned Kinglet and a friendly Hutton’s Vireo. Over at the Foulweather Bluff Conservancy, our scopes trained on Surf, White-winged and Black Scoter, plus Western Grebe. Meanwhile marsh ducks included American and Eurasian Wigeon. The day’s raptors were Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Cooper’s Hawk, and Red-tailed Hawk.

68 Species (Approx. Qty)

Attendees: Phil, Dianne, Lisa, Jane, Val, Judy Lo, Merilee, Graham, Karen, John H., Judy La., Ken, Frank, Bruce, Robin, Teri, Tari, Terry, Rex, Pat, Ray, Jeff, Marty, Clyde

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (80), Cackling Goose (1), Eurasian Wigeon (1), American Wigeon (220), Mallard (3), Pintail (30), Green-winged Teal (1), Harlequin Duck (3), Surf Scoter (190), White-winged Scoter (4), Black Scoter (2)

LOONS, GREBES: Pacific Loon (7), Common Loon (4), Horned Grebe (15), Red-necked Grebe (13), Western Grebe (4)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (90), Pelagic Cormorant (32), Great Blue Heron (4)

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

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (10), Greater Yellowlegs (1), Least Sandpiper (7)

GULLS: Bonaparte’s Gull (20), Heermann’s Gull (10), Short-billed Gull (25), California Gull (7), Glaucous-winged Gull (45)

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

OWLS: Barred Owl (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna's Hummingbird (4)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (4)

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

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Hutton’s Vireo (1)

CORVIDS: Steller's Jay (2), California Scrub-Jay (7), American Crow (15), Common Raven (2)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (1)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (3)

WRENS: Bewick's Wren (1), Pacific Wren (2), Marsh Wren (5)

THRUSHES: American Robin (22), Varied Thrush (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (90)

WARBLERS, CHAT: Yellow-rumped Warbler (6)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (5), Fox Sparrow (1), Song Sparrow (4), White-crowned Sparrow (4), Golden-crowned Sparrow (6), Dark-eyed Junco (7)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (22)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (1), Red-crossbill (1), Pine Siskin (1)

Trip Report: Camano Island

Photo: Golden-crowned Sparrow by Philip Dickinson

October 10, 2023

Graham Hutchison led us on a tour of hotspots around northeast Camano Island. Smith Lake had American Coot, Red-breasted Nuthatch and Gadwall. Along Barnum Point trails, we saw Black-capped and Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Golden- and Ruby-Crowned Kinglet, Fox Sparrow, Bushtit, Purple Finch, and others. On the water, we spied 11 Western Grebe and many Surf Scoter. At English Boom, we added Common Loon, Belted Kingfisher, Bald Eagle, numerous Great Blue Heron, hundreds of Snow Goose and many ducks. Iverson Point produced three Virginia Rail, Northern Harrier, Red-tailed Hawk and a Golden-crowned Sparrow flock. We finished at Eide Road with Long-billed Dowitcher, Least Sandpiper, Horned Grebe and Caspian Tern. And, we saw none of the forecast rain except a few drops at the start.

52 Species (Approx. Qty)

Attendees: Graham, Amy, Phil, Lisa, Kathy, Tari, Judy B., Dianne, Denny, Ken, Teri, Rick, Pam T., Jane

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Snow Goose (1500), Gadwall (7), American Wigeon (1200), Mallard (105), Northern Pintail (1000), Green-winged Teal (700), Surf Scoter (200)

LOONS, GREBES: Common Loon (2), Horned Grebe (1), Western Grebe (13)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (18), Great Blue Heron (62)

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

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (3), American Coot (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Least Sandpiper (60), Long-billed Dowitcher (30)

GULLS: Ring-billed Gull (450), California Gull (2), Glaucous-winged Gull (8), Caspian Tern (3)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Pigeon Guillemot (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Eurasian Collared-Dove(9), Mourning Dove (12)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (5)

CORVIDS: Steller's Jay (3), American Crow (18), Common Raven (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (4), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (1), Bushtit (7)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (3)

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

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (11)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (340)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (11), Savannah Sparrow (2), Fox Sparrow (3), Song Sparrow (13), White-crowned Sparrow (2), Golden-crowned Sparrow (28), Dark-eyed Junco (4)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (4)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: Purple Finch (3), House Finch (2), House Sparrow (16)

Trip Report: Nisqually

Photo: Nazca Booby by Philip Dickinson

October 3, 2023

What’s that bird in the photo? Make sure to read to the end. We began an overcast day with good activity in the orchard and along the maintenance road: multiple Brown Creeper, Golden-crowned and Ruby-crowned Kinglet, Black-capped and Chestnut-backed Chickadee, Cedar Waxwing, and three cavorting Bald Eagle, among others. The east boardwalk and the Twin Barns overlook were quiet, but better along the dike. Duck species included numerous American Wigeon, Green-winged Teal and Northern Pintail. We also spied Greater Yellowlegs, Long-billed Dowitcher and Western Sandpiper. At that point, we cut short our walk and headed over to Luhr Beach across McAllister Creek because a Nazca Booby discovered the day before had been resighted. What a thrill to see this rarity from the Galapagos, even at a distance! Surf and White-winged Scoter, and Horned, Red-necked and Western Grebe were nice additions to end the day.

52 Species (Approx. Qty)

Attendees: Phil, Dianne, Lisa, Tari, Rex, Jeff, Denny, Frank, Ken, Teri, Reg, Bruce, Maureen T., Pam T., Karen, Kay, John H., Pat, Marcia, Joanie, Terry

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Cackling Goose (45), American Wigeon (20), Mallard (6), Northern Shoveler (20), Northern Pintail (200), Green-winged Teal (20), Greater Scaup (30), Surf Scoter (50), White-winged Scoter (5)

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

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

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (5), Northern Harrier (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Greater Yellowlegs (15), Western Sandpiper (40), Long-billed Dowitcher (1)

GULLS: Ring-billed Gull (100), Short-billed Gull (2), California Gull (2), Glaucous-winged Gull (7)

FRIGATEBIRDS, BOOBIES, GANNETS: Nazca Booby (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (25)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna's Hummingbird (2)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (2)

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

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Barn Swallow (5)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (12), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (5)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Brown Creeper (4)

WRENS: Bewick's Wren (1)

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

THRUSHES: American Robin (4)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (10)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (30)

WARBLERS, CHAT: Common Yellowthroat (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (5), Fox Sparrow (3), Song Sparrow (12), Golden-crowned Sparrow (6)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (8)

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

Trip Report: Silvana Roads

Photo: Turkey Vulture by Philip Dickinson

September 26, 2023

On the first stop on 7th Ave. NE, we found American Pipits in the field of newly planted blueberries. On Hevly Rd., American Goldfinches and House Finches were munching on sunflower seeds. We had Turkey Vultures, Bald Eagles and Common Ravens flying over the corn fields, with ten vultures in trees at the end of the road. A Barred Owl was spotted on 4th Ave NW by one car. At Sunday Lake, we heard a Virginia Rail. Ducks, Canada Geese, Cackling Geese and a Pied-billed Grebe were on the lake. After lunch in Stanwood, we headed to Eide Rd, rather than return toward Silvana. We got out the scopes in the rain, but the wind was blowing so hard we could not use them. We had a good look at a Northern Harrier but were not able to identify other birds due to the weather, so trip leader Wilma Bayes agreed to call it a day.

38 Species (Approx. Qty)

Attendees: Graham, Wilma, Richard, Doug, Judy, Dianne, Sue, Ken, Reg, Lisa, Bruce, Karen and Rex

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Cackling Goose (15), Canada Goose (76), American Wigeon (6), Mallard (7), Northern Shoveler (2)

LOONS, GREBES: Pied-billed Grebe (1)

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

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (10)

RAPTORS: Osprey (1), Bald Eagle (2), Northern Harrier (1), American Kestrel (1)

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (1), American Coot (3)

GULLS: Glaucous-winged Gull (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (5), Eurasian Collared-Dove (1), Mourning Dove (2)

OWLS: Barred Owl (1)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna's Hummingbird (7)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

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

CORVIDS: Steller's Jay (3), American Crow (5), Common Raven (2)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Violet-green Swallow (70)

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

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1)

WRENS: Bewick's Wren (1)

THRUSHES: American Robin (43)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (1,065)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: American Pipit (35)

WARBLERS, CHAT: Common Yellowthroat (2)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (4), Song Sparrow (6), Golden-crowned Sparrow (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Brewer's Blackbird (3)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (5), American Goldfinch (12)

Trip Report: Sequim

Photo: Marbled Godwit by Philip Dickinson

September 19, 2023

Frank Caruso led a great day of birding with nice weather and good birds to see. One of the first birds seen was a Merlin. One birder mentioned this was one of her favorite birds to see, as she is from the East coast and Merlins there are more of a gray color than the darker brown we see in Washington. We enjoyed comparing the size of one Cackling Goose that was with two Canada Geese. These birds were found on the Old Gardiner Road as were seven California Quail. We all enjoyed the shorebirds at Three Crabs and the Oyster House Road area. A favorite was the Marbled Godwit. We also enjoyed the Black-bellied Plovers, Short-billed Dowitchers and a lone Baird’s Sandpiper.

60 species (Approx. qty.)

Attendees: Wilma, Graham, Dianne, Merilee, Joanie, Frank, Melinda, Rex, Ken, Tari, Judy B. Val, Denny, Bruce, Rick, Marsha, Pat, Karen, Lisa, Kameron, Judy La.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Cackling Goose (1), Canada Goose (77), American Wigeon (2.500), Mallard (24), Northern Pintail (4), Surf Scoter (14), Black Scoter (1), Hooded Merganser (4), Common Merganser (1)

GALLINACEOUS BIRDS: California Quail (7)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (109), Pelagic Cormorant (16)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (4)

RAPTORS: Bald Eagle (5), American Kestrel (1), Merlin (2)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (454), Killdeer (5), Marbled Godwit (12), Baird’s Sandpiper (1), Western Sandpipe (3), Short-billed Dowitcher (12)

GULLS, TERNS: Heermann's Gull (26), Short-Billed Gull (19), Ring-billed Gull (63), California Gull (10), Glaucous-winged Gull (589), Caspian Tern (1)

ALCIDS: Common Murre (4), Pigeon Guillemot (12), Rhinoceros Auklet (39)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (112), Eurasian Collared-Dove (5)

NIGHTHAWKS, SWIFTS: Vaux's Swift (2)

HUMMINGBIRDS: Anna's Hummingbird (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (3)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (2)

CORVIDS: Steller's Jay (1), American Crow (57), Common Raven (2)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Violet-green Swallow (15), Barn Swallow (1)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Chestnut-backed Chickadee (4)

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1)

WRENS: Bewick's Wren (1)

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (3)

THRUSHES: American Robin (1)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (275)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (23)

WARBLERS, CHAT: Yellow-rumped Warbler (1), Black-throated Gray Warbler (3), Townsend's Warbler (2)

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

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (121), Brewer's Blackbird (5)

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

Trip Report: Marysville/Everett

Photo: Cinnamon Teal by Philip Dickinson

September 12, 2023

Tulalip Bay provided a great start to our day with Great Egret, Ruddy and Black Turnstone, Black-bellied Plover, Short-billed Dowitcher and one very entertaining Merlin. Jennings Park was quiet, except for many Bushtit and a California Scrub Jay calling as we left. Harborview Park proved more interesting, highlighted by numerous Killdeer and a migrant flock that included Warbling Vireo, Orange-crowned and Wilson’s Warbler, Swainson’s Thrush and Cedar Waxwing. Hooded Merganser, Ruddy Duck and Cinnamon Teal were among many ducks at the Marysville Treatment Plant. We ended the day at north Smith Island watching a Peregrine Falcon pair and finding an Eared Grebe in the Everett Sewage Lagoons main pond.

63 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Dianna, Judy Lo., Frank C., Reg, Rick, Pam T., Ken, Karen, Maureen T., Pat, Jeff, Kathy, Lisa, Denny, Wilma, Amy, Sue B, Teresa

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (19), Gadwall (10), Mallard (72), Cinnamon Teal (10), Northern Shoveler (300), Northern Pintail (220), Green-winged Teal (65), Ring-necked Duck (1), Hooded Merganser (1), Ruddy Duck (30)

LOONS, GREBES: Eared Grebe (2), Western Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (8), Great Blue Heron (12), Great Egret (1)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

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

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (1), American Coot (7)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (50), Killdeer (34), Greater Yellowlegs (4), Ruddy Turnstone (1), Black Turnstone (6), Short-billed Dowitcher (2)

GULLS, TERNS: Short-billed Gull (9), Ring-billed Gull (65), Glaucous-winged Gull (50), Caspian Tern (3)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (35)

HUMMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (3)

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Warbling Vireo (1)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (6), California Scrub-Jay (2), American Crow (36)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Purple Martin (1), Barn Swallow (20)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (16), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (2), Bushtit (42)

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

WRENS: Marsh Wren (3)

THRUSHES: Swainson’s Thrush (1), American Robin (4)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (250)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (10)

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

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (2), Savannah Sparrow (27), Song Sparrow (6), White-crowned Sparrow (5)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (1)

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

Trip Report: South Whidbey

Photo: Greater Yellowlegs by Philip Dickinson

September 5, 2023

This always popular trip never disappoints, even during “off season.” Starting at Maxwelton, the group, including German visitors Angelica and Annika. enjoyed good views of Osprey, Red-necked Grebe and several Common Loon. Sunlight Beach was surprisingly quiet other than some Common Merganser, but then we heard raucous Steller Jay calls from a willow and located a Great Horned Owl. At the Earth Sanctuary pond, we added Wood Duck and Hooded Merganser. A post-lunch walk at Fort Casey led us to Hutton’s Vireo, Yellow-rumped Warbler and Golden-crowned Kinglet. At the Keystone Ferry overlook we identified all three local cormorants—Brandt’s, Double-crested and Pelagic. We also saw Pigeon Guillemot and Rhinoceros Auklet. Deer Lagoon offered Greater Yellowlegs, Black-bellied Plover and Whimbrel. Then, just as we lamented a failure to find an American White Pelican, four flew in to complete our day.

70 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Dianna, Judy Lo., Reg, Rick, Jane, Karen, Val, Pat, Marcia, Jeff, John H., Kathy, Ellen, Lisa, Denny, Ray, Angelica, Annika.

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (162), Wood Duck (1), Gadwall (4), American Wigeon (8), Mallard (467), Northern Pintail (204), Green-winged Teal (2), Surf Scoter (15), Hooded Merganser (1), Common Merganser (21)

LOONS, GREBES: Common Loon (12), Red-necked Grebe (2)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (4), Pelagic Cormorant (50), Double-crested Cormorant (13), American White Pelican (4), Great Blue Heron (40)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

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

RAILS, CRANES: Virginia Rail (2)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (3), Killdeer (6), Greater Yellowlegs (4), Whimbrel (2), Western Sandpiper (25)

GULLS, TERNS: Bonaparte’s Gull (10), Ring-billed Gull (65), California Gull (33), Glaucous-winged Gull (225), Caspian Tern (24)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (35), Mourning Dove (1)

OWLS: Great Horned Owl (1)

HUMMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (3)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

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

SHRIKES, VIREOS: Hutton’s Vireo (1)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (3), American Crow (13)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Barn Swallow (56)

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

NUTHATCHES, CREEPER: Red-breasted Nuthatch (1)

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

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (3)

THRUSHES: Swainson’s Thrush (1), American Robin (3)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (164)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (10)

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

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (3), Savannah Sparrow (2), Song Sparrow (4), White-crowned Sparrow (1), Golden-crowned Sparrow (2), Dark-eyed Junco (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (90)

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

Trip Report: Everett/Mukilteo

Photo: Barred Owl by Philip Dickinson

August 29, 2023

Our August birding ended with a surprisingly cool and cloudy day that made for less bird activity overall. However, there were some nice surprises. We began with Bushtit, Cedar Waxwing, Cooper’s Hawk and Merlin at Everett’s Legion Park. At the new Baywood Nature Trail below the park, we counted 14 Osprey. There also were a raft of Common Mergansers and several shorebird species, including Sanderling. Forest Park yielded a late Western Wood-Pewee, Brown Creeper and Red-breasted Nuthatch. Highlights at Howarth Park were a mixed flock that added Downy Woodpecker, Orange-crowned Warbler and Townsend’s Warbler to our count, plus a lunchtime visit from a Pileated Woodpecker. Our day ended with nice views of Golden-crowned Kinglets and Doug Resnick’s Barred Owl at the Narbeck Wetland Sanctuary.

46 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Rex, Graham, Dianna, Wilma, Ken, Jane, Bruce, Kathy, Doug, Tari, Lianne

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (4), Mallard (59), Common Merganser (45)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Pelagic Cormorant (3), Double-crested Cormorant (24), Great Blue Heron (25)

RAPTORS: Osprey (14), Bald Eagle (1), Cooper’s Hawk (1), Merlin (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Killdeer (6), Greater Yellowlegs (1), Sanderling (3), Least Sandpiper (12), Western Sandpiper (200)

GULLS, TERNS: Ring-billed Gull (200), California Gull (9), Glaucous-winged Gull (225), Caspian Tern (1)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (49)

OWLS: Barred Owl (1)

HUMMMINGBIRDS: Anna’s Hummingbird (2)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (2)

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

FLYCATCHERS: Western Wood-Pewee (1)

CORVIDS: Steller’s Jay (3), American Crow (185)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Purple Martin (1), Barn Swallow (40)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (6), Chestnut-backed Chickadee (5)

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

KINGLETS: Golden-crowned Kinglet (4)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (80)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (6)

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

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Song Sparrow (2)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Red-winged Blackbird (11)

FINCHES, WEAVER FINCH: House Finch (2)

Trip Report: Samish Flats

Photo: Red-necked Phalarope by Philip Dickinson

August 22, 2023

We first stopped at the Fir Island (Hayton) Reserve on our way to the Samish Flats to look for s shorebirds. We found Least and Western Sandpiper, Semipalmated Plover, Killdeer, and Greater Yellowlegs. A Peregrine Falcon watched them, too. On the flats, highlights were several American Kestrel and Red-tailed Hawk, Northern Harrier, and Cooper’s Hawk. During lunch on Samish Island, we spied Common Loon and Yellow Warbler. Then we checked out the Brown Pelican roosting with 250-plus American White Pelican in Padilla Bay. We finished at the Channel Drive slough with nine Red-necked Phalarope and a Black Phoebe. Paul, a visitor from The Netherlands, really enjoyed seeing some of our birds.

50 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Wilma, Rex, Graham, Diane, Pat, Marcia, Judy Lo., Ken, Reg, Bev, Jane, Maureen T., Melinda, Carol, Lianne, Kathy, Barry, Arian, Paul

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Canada Goose (20), Gadwall (4), Mallard (340), Green-winged Teal (2 ), Surf Scoter (150)

LOONS, GREBES: Common Loon (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Double-crested Cormorant (8), Pelagic Cormorant (1), American White Pelican (200), Brown Pelican (1), Great Blue Heron (12)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (2)

RAPTORS: Osprey (2), Bald Eagle (3), Northern Harrier ( 5), Cooper’s Hawk (2), Red-tailed Hawk (8 ), American Kestrel (4), Peregrine Falcon (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Semipalmated Plover (3), Killdeer (17), Greater Yellowlegs (1), Least Sandpiper (20), Western Sandpiper (500), Red-necked Phalarope (9)

GULLS, TERNS: Ring-billed Gull (300), Glaucous-winged Gull (82), Caspian Tern (3)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Eurasian Collared-Dove (3)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (3)

WOODPECKERS: Northern Flicker (1)

FLYCATCHERS: Willow Flycatcher (2), Black Phoebe (1)

CORVIDS: American Crow (3), Common Raven (19)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Tree Swallow (3), Violet-green Swallow (2), Northern Rough-winged Swallow (1), Cliff Swallow (1), Barn Swallow (119)

THRUSHES: American Robin (3)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (213)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (1)

WARBLERS, CHATS: Yellow Warbler (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Savannah Sparrow (7), Song Sparrow (1 ), White-crowned Sparrow (4)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Brewer’s Blackbird (42)

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

Trip Report: Blaine & Semiahmoo

Photo: Harlequin Duck by Philip Dickinson

August 15, 2023

Our group enjoyed a respite from the heat at home with gorgeous day along the northern Salish Sea. In Blaine, Surf and White-winged Scoter were numerous albeit distant, while Black Oystercatcher, Western Sandpiper and Common Loon were not so hard to see. Several people also had good looks at a Pacific-slope Flycatcher. At Semiahmoo, we enjoyed even closer views of Harlequin Duck, Common Goldeneye and Spotted Sandpiper. Then it was time for a relaxing lunch and a walk on the beach at Wilma Bayes’s cottage on beautiful Birch Bay. On the way home, we stopped at Sandy Point and were pleased to find American Kestrel, Brant, Black Turnstone, Long-billed Dowitcher and Black-bellied Plover, the latter still in breeding plumage.

46 species (approx. qty.)

Attendees: Phil, Wilma, Rex, John H., Graham, Diane, Pat, Marcia, Judy Lo., Val, Ken, Reg, Jane, Pam T., Rick, Carlos, Doug, Carol, Kathy

CHECKLIST:

WATERFOWL: Brant (1), Canada Goose (413), Mallard (100), Harlequin Duck (5), Surf Scoter (540), White-winged Scoter (150), Common Goldeneye (4)

LOONS, GREBES: Common Loon (2), Horned Grebe (3), Red-necked Grebe (1)

PELICANS, HERONS, IBIS: Brandt’s Cormorant (1), Double-crested Cormorant (520), Pelagic Cormorant (6), Great Blue Heron (64)

VULTURE: Turkey Vulture (1)

RAPTORS: Cooper’s Hawk (1), American Kestrel (1)

SHOREBIRDS: Black-bellied Plover (2), Killdeer (5), Black Oystercatcher (5), Spotted Sandpiper (3), Greater Yellowlegs (4), Black Turnstone (1), Western Sandpiper (82), Long-billed Dowitcher (2)

GULLS, TERNS: Bonaparte’s Gull (1), Short-billed Gull (8), Ring-billed Gull (152), California Gull (4), Glaucous-winged Gull (135), Caspian Tern (38)

DOVES, PIGEONS: Rock Pigeon (10), Eurasian Collared-Dove (2)

ALCIDS, JAEGERS: Rhinoceros Auklet (1)

KINGFISHER: Belted Kingfisher (1)

FLYCATCHERS: Pacific-slope Flycatcher (1)

CORVIDS: American Crow (29)

LARKS, SWALLOWS: Purple Martin (5), Barn Swallow (22)

CHICKADEES, BUSHTIT: Black-capped Chickadee (5)

MIMIDS, STARLINGS: European Starling (97)

WAXWINGS, PIPITS: Cedar Waxwing (1)

LONGSPURS, SPARROWS: Spotted Towhee (1), White-crowned Sparrow (1)

BLACKBIRDS, ORIOLES: Brewer’s Blackbird (20)

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