Surf Scoters have been reported in good numbers in southern Alberta on the
Alberta birding list (http://www.birdingonthe.net/mailinglists/ALBR.html).
It seems likely that the large number of scoters being seen in northern
Idaho and eastern WA are heading southwest to the coast from the northern
prairie provinces and/or eastern parts of Northwest Territories. That more
are being seen in eastern WA might indicate a more westerly track as these
birds head for the coast. Perhaps some weather phenomenon has sent some
south of their normal route this fall.

thanks,
Charles.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Charles E. Swift
Moscow, ID, USA
charless at moscow.com
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~