I had a couple of ID challenges on my trip to the Okanogan this month that
I would like some help with.
1. Empid, high up in a tree and backlit so view was poor. I could see yellow
on lower mandible, bill looked broad rather than thin, buffy wing bars, and
prominent eye ring. He was singing loudly, a distinct two not song with the
second note higher than the first (not trilled). I went and listened to my
Peterson's CD's and it sounded just like the Cordilleran Flycatcher
recording. I assume this must have been a Pacific-slope Flycatcher with an
unusual song. Question is a. does a Pacific-slope give a two note rather
than slurred song? b. If so, how could you ever tell it from a Cordilleran
in overlapping range?
2. At Molson there were peep near the Grater Yellowlegs on the far side of
the ponds. They looked pale gray above, white below, with straight black
bills. I was missing having my scope, couldn't get a better look. They sure
looked like Sanderlings to me. Question is: would you expect to see
Sanderlings migrating south in this part of Washington in July? It is
surprising how it can through you seeing a species in habitat that is
different than previous sightings. On the coast I would have felt confidant
making the call for Sanderlings.

Thanks in advance,
Jack Stephens
jsteph02 at sprynet.com
Edmonds, WA