11/10/99

Early this morning, Gavin from Victoria, Chris Charlesworth from Kelowna
and myself set out for Mamit Lake in hopes of seeing the WHOOPER SWANS. We
arrived at the lake at 11am and immediately saw the birds on the side of
the lake nearest the road. My parents, Phil and Dolly Gehlen, from Vernon
were already on the bird when we got there. It was almost too easy! Must
have been the good birding "mojo" from the Mojo ready-mix plant on Mamit
Lake Road.

Not content with one rarity, we drove down to Bow, Washington and after
some searching were able to see the Eurasian Kestrel on the East side of
the road not far north of Colony Road. The sign where we parked said
"Karma" Nurseries. More good fortune?

A twelve hour day of birding was most rewarding. We all went home very
satisfied with the fantastic birds we'd seen. Two lifers for Chris, one
for Gavin and a first North American for me!


Calvin Gehlen
calvin at gobirding.com
Vancouver, BC