Paul wrote:

<lots deleted>


>However, what I did find striking (and what really
>drew my attention in the first place) was the distinctive banking flight;
>that is, a 4-5 flaps leaning on one side, then turning over for 4-5 on
>the other. This flight seemed almost swallow-like or storm-petrel like
>(I'm from the east, so I can't recall if it is Wilson's or Leach's that
>I'm trying to recall from the distant past).

<cut>

>Upon looking up the field guide I considered that the
>observations might suggest a Cassin's auklet, but I thought this species
>was restricted to offshore waters during the day. I have no experience
>with this species and do not know its flight. I am indeed a dreaded lister
>but am not worried about this critter. If anyone has any comments or suggestions
>regarding this posting (especially regarding the flight observations) I
>would certainly welcome them.

Cassin's Auklet's style of flight is the antithesis of swallow-like: make off in
a straight line with the wings beating so fast they just look like a blur. Not
sure what you saw but I'm convinced it wasn't a Cassin's Auklet. Re. the offshore
waters bit, this time of year they could likely be seen farther inshore while the
babes are just recently away from the colonies.

- Jack




***************************
*Jack Bowling *
*Prince George, BC *
*jcbowling at mindlink.bc.ca *
***************************