>But I went to Canada twice looking for the Rosy Finches with no luck, but...



Recently I've noticed quite a few postings by frustrated Rosy Finch hunters.
Let me try to offer some aid.

Yesterday, Jan. 5, I observed two flocks of Rosy Finches in Douglas and Grant
Counties. One flock of c. 250 birds was found feeding in a farmer's yard on "F"
NW 1 mile south of Mud Spring Road, Delorme Atas page 84 B-1 on the Waterville
Plateau. Another flock of 15 was found along the cliffs of Park Lake north of
Soap Lake. Probably the most well-known and regular location in this area is
the cliff along Hwy 17 just north of Soap Lake town, atlas 69, A-5. Rosy
finches wander widely so you'll probably not find them in the same place two
days in a row. However, since the beginning of December I have crossed the
Waterville Plateau about a half dozen times without failing to find Rosy
Finches. They roost in crevices and Cliff Swallow nests along rimrock areas
and coulees and so tend to spend their days foraging within a few miles of such
habitat. I've found them foraging in habitats as diverse as wheat stubble to
yards to asphalt road surfaces. But most commonly spot them being flushed from
the road shoulder by passing cars as they feed on spilt grain. The more miles
driven in suitable areas the more likely they'll be found. Look for a tight
flock of House Sparrow-sized birds. In my experience, the flocks are usually
pure.


By the way, this part of the state is less than 3 hours from Seattle. What a
wonderful way to spend a weekend!


Scott Ray
209 So. 40th Ave
Yakima, WA 98908
(509) 965-5456