We have heard that this person is very concerned about safety which Scott
has emphasized well. She didn't want this broadcast to other general bird
alerts because of the safety issues. Evidently she also does not want to be
bothered on weekends.

We just thought we'd add this so birders could honor her wishes.



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


Bill and Nancy LaFramboise
Richland, WA
wlafra at oneworld.owt.com