I did my monthly bird census this morning in the restored habitat along the
Sammammish River in Marymoor Park. Three years ago that area was a quarter
mile of dirt and mud along the river. Today, the young trees and shrubs are
covering the area, completely fenced from dogs and humans while leaving
acess to the river at intervals for the dogs. The birds are occupying the
areas big time!

This morning I had my first COMMON YELLOWTHROAT in the restoration area.
Also present were BUSHTITS, YELLOW-RUMPED WARBLERS, BEWICK WREN, MARSH WREN,
SONG SPARROW, BLACK-CAPPED CHICKADEES, AMERICAN ROBIN, RUFOUS HUMMINGBIRD,
HOUSE FINCH, and RED-WINGED BLACKBIRD.

Because the river is fenced off along most of that stretch, water birds are
showing up also. This morning a pair of PIED-BILL GREBES was mating and
building a floating nest anchored to the opposite bank brush. Two pair of
COMMON MERGANSER were fishing that stretch.

The project is a great example of cooperative effort between all interested
parties. I keep wondering if the same plan would work at Magnuson Park,
allowing fenced access to the lake for dogs while protecting restored
habitat. It certainly is working at Marymoor.

Any who are interested in seeing the seven census areas, look for the small,
white plastic emblems attached to the top of the center fencepost in each of
the fenced areas. The observations include a 100 foot radius from that point
in the restoration area.

Grant Hendrickson
Redmond, WA
granth at halcyon.com