This post has two parts to it, the first is a question and hopefully
somebody out there has some notes on this. The second is a request for
people interested in finding Sage Thrasher nests.

Along the Vantage Hwy there are several areas that have territorial
thrashers along the highway but not upslope from it, despite being
suitable habitat for thrashers. While their are benefits for placing a
nesting area along the highway, the microclimate along roads is much
warmer and likely serves the same benefit as when Thrashers often place
nests on east aspects to pick up heat early in the morning. However...
this would mean that there bareground they would need for foraging in
these areas would need to in part at least come from the road or the
side of the road. I have never seen a Sage Thrasher forage on a paved
road or on the shoulder, my question is have others seen this (talking
about directly on the road ground, not flying over) and if so could you
give me as complete of notes as possible, private replies are best here.
Thank you.

Sage Thrasher nest searching help needed.
Any day of the week that one is available. No experience is needed, I
can show one what to look for, and how to mark a nest once found. Time
commitment or a day is anywhere from a few hours to better part of a
day, searchers choice.
Time period is from April 18 through May 9. I will be out there from
about sunrise on every day of the week. Latest is usually about noon. If
wanting further information please contact me.

Place is along Vantage Hwy ~MP 18-22.
Average walking is probably 2-3 miles for the day.

My contact information:

Scott downes
downess at cwu.edu (best way to be sure of getting ahold of me)
933-2803 (evenings)

Scott Downes
Department of Biology 7537
Central Washington University
400 E8th Ave
Ellensburg, WA 98926-7474
downess at cwu.edu