Hello,
May I repeat appreciation for the organization, site selection, lodging
and chow choices, and especially the time allowed to study the peeps
wherever we encountered them closely to easily see subtle field marks
well with binos and scopes. I am confident enough now to be able to
independently (well, probably most of the time) ID Pectoral and Baird's
sandpipers. The workshop was also great reinforcement for more familiar
species, Least and Western sandpipers, plovers, terns, godwits, Willets,
dowitchers (still need more study and practice to distinquish Short from
Long-billed's), etc. The upclose views of the variance in plumage for the
mixed-age Surfbirds was just fabulous. And, the serendipitous
demonstration of starfish-eating "strategies" by gulls (at the Game
Range, I believe, the area near the ocean shores sewer treatment plant)
was beyond priceless.....(Yuk!)

I still would have a struggle to confidently ID a basic-plumed Red Knot,
but maybe next time. Beginning dragonfly identification was also a treat.
And the wave of small birds (mixed migrating species including warblers)
in the trees by the sea in Tokeland was delightful.

This workshop is highly recommended when it is offered in the future!
(We saw 100+ species for the 3-day event)

Thanks again and cheers and cheers,
Maureen Ellis me2 at u.washington.edu Univ of WA and Des Moines, WA

"Finding the occasional straw of truth awash in a great ocean of
confusion and bamboozle requires vigilance, dedication, and courage."
-Carl Sagan-