Just returned from a trip up the N. Calif coast, where we had incredible
views(20 ft)of a gorgeous Laysan albatross from the Point Arena pier.

This bird has apparently wintered here for the past 5 years, and is in great
shape. When we walked out on the wharf, the bird swooped in following a
returning surfer. The albatross landed behind the surfer and followed him
to near shore, approaching within one foot of the surfer, who was quite
amazed to face a bird this size eye to eye. It must work the surfers for
handouts.

The albatross then swallowed a few small crabs, tore a kelp head apart and
ate it, and seemed quite content. We've seen Laysans on pelagic trips, but
we've never observed one like this.

Also, about 2 miles north of Point Arenas there are about 150 tundra swans
wintering in a field on the west side of hiway 1, accompanied by a flock of
Canada geese and a lone white-fronted goose.

Wm Mulligan wmmulligan at home.com
8423 California Av SW Seattle WA 98136
206-932-4340 FAX 206-937-6619
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