A male Falcated Teal is still at Tofino Inlet as of Friday morning, Feburary
3. I am advised that the BC Records Committee has accepted as a wild
vagrant, and therefore a new species to British Columbia, the male Falcated
Teal that was at Tofino Inlet last April and which was seen and documented by
a number of competent observers. The species is also on the offical ABA
list. Thus, this current bird (quite likely the same bird that was there
last April) can be added to your ABA list(s), if you are fortunate enough
to see it.

Take Highway 4 west across Vancouver Island, through Port Alberni, to
Tofino. Just before entering the village of Tofino, turn right at the
Dolphin Motel onto Sharp Road. Drive the short distance to the end of Sharp
Rd. (there is a small salmon hatchery there) and scope the waters and tidal
flats of Tofino Inlet. A falling or low tide is best. Apparently there is a
low tide tomorrow morning, but I do not have specific times. Tide tables
are apparently available at Captain Marine outlets in Washington State.

Give yourself 2.5 hours to drive from Nanaimo ferry terminal to the bird.
Take a scope and rain clothing. Watch also for a dark mantled gull, which
could be a Slaty-backed Gull.

I would appreciate hearing from you (positive or negative) at the Vicotria
Rare Bird Alert (604) 592-3381 or through Tweeters if you should venture to
Tofino.

Best of Luck.

Bryan Gates, Victoia
bgates at assessment.env.gov.bc.ca