This morning I was at the LHG in east Bellevue from 0730-0930. What a
difference the sun makes in bringing the birds out. I saw four American
Pipits in fields north of SE 16th St. The first Black-headed Grosbeak and
Olive-sided Flycatcher of the year showed up. The flycatcher didn't call so
it had to be a visual ID. It appeared to be larger than Willow or
Pacific-slope Flycatchers which were the only other possibilities. The sides
of its breast and flanks were gray with white down the middle. Fortunately,
it stayed perched until I could get behind the bird and see a white patch on
its rump which confirmed the OSFL ID.

There was a Double-crested Cormorant back at Phantom Lake after not seeing
any for three weeks. A single Northern Shoveler and single female Greater
Scaup were still at Larsen Lake. There is a shed at the blueberry farm area
SE of Larsen Lake which has a roof with sides enclosed by mesh metal fencing.
I counted five Barn Swallows nests under the roof. Apparently, they can fly
in and out thru the fence okay and feel secure as it would keep out bigger
birds, such as crow and jays. Also heard seven Wilson's Warblers. They are
back in force.

Hugh Jennings
Bellevue, WA
hughbirder at aol.com