Ruth,
It does seem unusual to have three different SHARP-TAILS come through.
However, there are numerous ponds in the area and most cannot be birded. I am
impressed by how short a time a SPSa stays when I have found one. I think I
have watched them leave each time but one. That time I returned in a half
hour and it was gone. They go each time a HARRIER cruises over or a jogger
comes by. They seem to return to the pond judging by the sightings we know
about. It certainly could be that it is one bird that finds the area to its
liking and has been hanging around.
Good photographs might answer the question but you know how hard they
are to get and you are the only one I know of who is out in the field
photographing regularly. I don't have the patience but admire yours.
Bob Norton
Joyce, WA