I've recently moved from Seattle to Pullman. I live at the edge of town on
a grassy/shrubby slope above the Pullman water treatment plant (popular
among crows, starlings, and magpies) and the south fork of the Palouse.
The slope between my house and the water treatment plant is a mix of native
plants and exotic weeds. The most common birds are magpies, California
quail, magpies, Ring-necked Pheasants, magpies, House Wrens, magpies, and
Starlings. Lots of bunnies on the slope, too. And did I mention the
magpies?

Shrubs on the slope, the river below, and handouts above. What more could a
magpie ask? When my dogs show the slightest sign they might be eating,
magpies appear to check out the deck for leftovers. The neighborhood is
swarming with cats, but I've never seen any kitties on the open slope during
my morning walks. I suspect the slope supports a coyote or two. Kitties
that live to old age probably don't venture there.

For those who are interested, note the new email address.

Kelly Cassidy
lostriver at completebbs.com
509-332-5428
Pullman, WA