{Mike, Re: Sage Sparrows, I observed and heard 4 singing males 5 February
1995 on the Wahluke Slope (T15N R 27E Sec 22). As Dick Cannings said to me
re: this sighting, "maybe they come in when the Meadowlarks appear."
Possibly, but probably only in the lowest and warmest parts of their
breeding range, as is this site.

Re: dark Ferruginous Hawks, I believe I've seen 3 in my 17 years in sc WA
and all have been in early spring (late Feb to mid-March), but none
thereafter! Any ideas? Where do these occasional dark birds go?

Re: your query on creeper breeding distribution in E WA. I suggest
old-growth western larch mixed with mature Engelmann spruce is important
to breeding creepers in NE WA. Both trees share a flaky textured bark when
mature. Look for creepers also in mature ponderosa pine, particularly in
association with mature larch. Unfortunately, mature ponderosas are
becoming rare in many parts of NE WA. I believe this retiring species is
of regular occurrence as a breeding species in this part of the state,
however. Unfortunately, it doesn't advertise itself like some of the
breeders, but thats okay. It still proves I've got ears if I can hear
them. Every year, I start spring with a dose of paranoia, wondering if
I'll be able to hear what I heard the prior spring.

Andy Stepniewski
Wapato, WA

Andy Stepniewski
Wapato, WA