Subject: On CBC's, raptors and a possible vole connection
Date: Dec 20 20:40:43 1999
From: Mike Patterson - mpatters at oregonvos.net


I just spent a half hour trying to give our generally
dependable Wireless Rd BARN OWLS a second chance for
inclusion on the Columbia Estuary CBC.

This morning, I went across the river to check to take
advantage of the much improved visibility and look
for shrikes. I found a single WHITE-TAILED KITE on
Chinook Valley rd. As I watched it, 5 NORTHERN HARRIERS
flew through the field of view all moving in the same
direction (we had 10 for the whole count, yesterday).

I have a feeling there's a story here. I'd appreciate
feedback from compilers and long time count participants
on raptor numbers (including shrikes). I suspect it
might be connected to the dearth of rodents discussed
a few weeks ago.

In other news, the PALM WARBLER seen yesterday at
Clover Ln (just across the bridge from the Astoria
Mitigation Bank) was still following its pal the
ORANGE-CROWNED WARBLER around behind the first
house on the left.

--
Mike Patterson Alas, to wear the mantle of Galileo
Astoria, OR It is not enough to be persecuted
mpatters at oregonvos.net by an unkind establishment,
You must also be right.
---Robert Park
http://www.pacifier.com/~mpatters/bird/bird.html