Tweets,

A Brown Thrasher has been present (and has been photographed) at a feeder
near Reardan, WA since about 15 January. The private property owner, and
thrasher finder, has recently and graciously consented to allow birders to
visit, but under strict conditions (see below).

The thrasher was last seen yesterday (Sunday) morning but was not seen in
the afternoon, a change from prior days when it was observed off and on from
early morning until mid to late afternoon. The location is at the bottom of
a brushy ravine blanketed with 18-24 inches of fresh snow. The bird has been
fairly regularly seen at a feeder near the house, usually 3 or 4 times a
day. It appears to be quite wary, and during each feeder visit spends only
about a minute scarfing bird seed before disappearing into the brush again.
Despite the heavy snow and 15 degree temps yesterday, the thrasher appeared
quite vigorous.

To reach this area, head east of Reardan on Hwy 2 for about 6 miles. Turn
north onto Wood Road for 6.7 miles. After about 6 miles Wood Road crosses
Coulee Creek, then climbs steeply out the north side. At the top of the
hill, immediately turn west on a private driveway that has one mailbox.
Follow the driveway for about 1/2 mile to the house.

Conditions on visits:

The property owner's main concerns surround their very long (1/2 mile),
steep, snowy driveway. The driveway goes downhill to the house, so getting
there is easier than getting out. CALL FIRST! A 4-wheel drive vehicle is
ABSOLUTELY REQUIRED, preferably with tire chains, tow chain, winch, shovel,
and a bulldozer! The driveway has sections being tilted in a manner that
vehicles will tend to slide off the driveway and down the embankment. Our
party would not have been able to leave without the 4-wheel drive we had.
Extreme care is advised! Also, yesterday the entire 6.7 miles of Wood Road
were covered with heavy snow drifts in white-out conditions. Currently the
temperature near the feeder is -14 degrees. Be prepared to stand outside
for several hours to see this one. I exaggerate not!

If you plan to try for this bird it would be polite to call first to be sure
the owner is home, as well as prudent to call for advice on whether the bird
is still around.

One could walk along the driveway rather than risk getting stuck.

Call Joanne Powell at (509) 796-2306.

How long can a Brown Thrasher survive in such conditions?

Watch for photos on the web tomorrow evening.

Scott

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Scott Ray Washington Birder Newsletter
Yakima, WA PO Box 191
email: scray at wolfenet.com Moxee, WA 98908
http://www.wolfenet.com/~scray/
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