On Thu, 10 Oct 1996, Chuck Cretin wrote:

> I spent 4 pleasant hours at Discovery Park yesterday (North Seattle) and
> saw a solitary brown pelican about 30 yards offshore at the south beach
> around the corner from the Westpoint Lighthouse.

Good question. Brown Pelicans are on the increase and the southern Washington
coast has been a very important post-breeding season feeding area for the
species in recent years (more brown pelicans in Willapa Bay and Grays Harbor
than anywhere else from central California north). During late summer and
Fall, Brown Pelicans can now be seen in many areas of the Washington coast.

However, as far as I know, occurrence in interior waters is still unusual.
I have heard of single birds near the ferry dock at Edmonds, perhaps one or
two other places. I think this sighting is a standout. Where is Gene Hunn
when you need him? Dennis, can you proxy?

Kelly McAllister