>There is a great birding spot, (I'm not sure if it would qualify as an area
for mountain birds) on Hiway 20 just north of the Rythym and Blues site. I
believe it is called Big Sky Ranch. If you are familiar with the
Winthrop/Mazama area its the big pasture area on the west side of the road
after you drive over the Weeman Bridge. Anyway along the river there is
great birding in amongst the cottonwoods, aspens, and birch trees. You do
need to call for permission to access the area, the person to call is Harold
Heath at 509 996 2644 or 996 3130. Another great spot is right there at
Pearygin Lake State Park. Just past the guard station is a good spot.
There are a number of great areas that are hard to explain over email, if
you would like to call me at 509-997-2167 I would be happy to steer you in
the right direction....

In response to the cowbird inquiry.... Dave has been working a number of
study sites in the Cle Elum area this summer, doing point counts and nest
search. He's found that the most profound hosts have been both Dusky and
Hammond Flycatchers. I guess the numbers hve been pretty high for those two
species. Other species include the Chipping Sparrow, Western Tanager, and
Song Sparrow.

:) Megan Rudholm
Twisp, WA

Megan McAlister Rudholm
Twisp, WA

The greatest glory of a freeborn people is to transmit that freedom to their
children.
- William Harvard