>Scott, I looked for Ospreys at 3 traditional nest sites between Wapato and
>Zillah today (30 March) with no sign of birds. Your record is interesting.
>It seems natural to assume returning birds might show up in sc WA before
>nc territories.
>
>Andy Stepniewski
>Wapato, WA

Andy, I think you're absolutely right about migrants in general, but birds
also probably vary idiosyncratically on when they arrive, perhaps those
with longer migration flights more so. And then I suppose there's a factor
of when they begin their migration based on where they are wintering.

I think there is certainly more than enough data to support your assertion,
just comparing southern with northern Washington.

I sit here in my office day after day and read all these birding accounts
with mixed emotions, I can tell you. I'm not sure if virtual birding is my
favorite thing.

Dennis Paulson, Director phone: (206) 756-3798
Slater Museum of Natural History fax: (206) 756-3352
University of Puget Sound e-mail: dpaulson at ups.edu
Tacoma, WA 98416