Went to check on the FRANKLIN'S GULL that the Sullivan's reported, it was
still on the main "pond" at the Hoquiam sewage treatment facility in Grays
Harbor CO. at about 10:30 AM. Was alerted to the possibility of shorebirds
in the NW corner by a courteous birder (thanks), and found some good migrant
activity. There is currently a draw-down in effect in the NW corner (where
the Tufted Duck was seen earlier this year), there I saw:
7 Lesser Yellowlegs
4 BAIRD'S SANDPIPERS (my first of the year)
1 SEMIPALMATED SANDPIPER (short, blunt bill; picking rather than probing
feeding habits; dull scapulars-hardly any rufous colors noted; darker cap)
2 Western Sandpipers (good comparison birds)
1 Least Sandpiper
10 Long-billed Dowitchers

This area looks great for migrant shorebirds, the exposed mud will remain
until we get heavy rains (according to the friendly guy at the facility-he
encourages birding, so stop in and ask to view the ponds from inside...he's
the one with the Rollie Fingers-esque mustache). I imagine the BAIRD'S will
continue to hit this spot for the rest of migration!

Jason Paulios
JPaulios at hotmail.com
Olympia, WA

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