Subject: Re: Prairie Falcon request
Date: Aug 17 19:39:13 1996
From: steppie at wolfenet.com - steppie at wolfenet.com


David,

Wahl and Paulson mention of Yakima-Ellensburg as being good for Prairie
Falcons. True, but seasonally, especially late Feb. through early June which
is their breeding season here. They can be very hard to find once the young
fledge - from mid-June through August in this area though. Try the mountain
meadows such as at Sunrise on Mt. Rainier or higher yet on the alpine slopes
approaching Burroughs Mtn. Or Chinook Pass. The mountain meadows are perhaps
most dependable at the end of August (the timing of your visit), or
shorebird-rich areas in eastern Washington such as:

1- the Walla Walla River delta southeast of Pasco
2- Othello Sewage ponds west of Othello
3- Atkins Lake west of Coulee City

You might be picking the most difficult period in which to look for a
Prairie Falcon in e. Washington. The breeding season is relatively easy as
is winter when they become regular in agricultural fields (esp. alfalfa and
to a lesser extent wheat).

Good luck!

Andy Stepniewski
Wapato WA



>Hi tweeters,
>
>Three of us be doing some birding in Washington and southern BC beginning
>the end of next week. In addition to some NWs specialities such as Pacific
>Golden Plover and Sharp-tailed Sandpiper we will be looking for a Prairie
>Falcon. From Wahl and Paulson's book the best areas are in the
>Ellensburg-Yakima area. Any good areas to check this year?
>
>Also are the Seattle or Vancouver RBAs posted anywhere on the internet?
>
>Thanks for your help.
>
>David Lange
>Cambridge, MA
>lange at eps.harvard.edu
>
>
>