The "bird walk" at East Bay (Olympia), Budd Inlet last Saturday brought
together about 15 volunteers interested in continuing the monitoring of the
waterbird (and other bird) community of this highly-modified urban
embayment. Our training session had an auspicious beginning when, during our
introductions, a Willet came to perch on the piling closest to our group.
This shorebird has been seen nearby for a few weeks, and one was present
last winter, but this was the first time I had seen it in upper East Bay. As
the morning continued, we saw other shorebirds: Killdeer, Dunlin, and
Greater Yellowlegs, all in small numbers.

My survey parameters call for censusing all waterbirds floating or taking
flight from the water--except gulls. I note all species detected, but limit
my careful censusing to shorten field time. Although sheer abundance of
birds will not be impressive at this site, a good variety of species can be
seen at close range. Water surface area in the survey unit is about 37 acres
(15 ha) at high tide, with various amounts of mud flat exposed at lows.

An October summary, based on 10 censuses and 1 additional visit . . .
13 waterbird species among 31 species recorded in the area. Pied-billed and
Horned Grebes had arrived prior to October and were seen regulary throughout
the month. Single Red-necked and Western Grebes were present only on the
3rd. Double-crested (regular) and Pelagic (infrequent) Cormorants were seen.

Lots of Mallards early in the month; few at the end. No other dabblers.

New arrivals
Scaup: between 28th and 30th
White-winged Scoter: 23rd to 28th
Black Scoter: 28th to 30th
Barrow's Goldeneye: 28th to 30th
Bufflehead: 23rd to 28th

New birds for a composite list going back to November 1992:
Willet, Turkey Vulture, Scrub Jay.

Sticky identification problems: sub-adult White-winged Scoter (versus Surf),
Horned Lark flyovers (versus pipit flyover).

*Thanks to Maureen and Eric for their posts concerning other south Puget
Sound waterbird observations.
------------------------
Scott Richardson
NE Seattle
salix at isomedia.com