Subject: Birding E. WA
Date: Apr 22 12:15:30 2003
From: variedthrush at attbi.com - variedthrush at attbi.com


Tweeters,

It was a perfect day yesterday for birding in eastern WA with very high cloud
cover most of the time and a comfortable 70 with a light breeze. We were
delighted to see seven Am.White Pelicans flying north over the Columbia at the
Wells Wildlife area near Bridgeport and our first trip down Central Ferry Canyon
Road was productive and stunningly beautiful. We particularly enjoyed watching
one of several Kestrels in action. Although the small hungry bird dropped its
mouse, we got all the more views.

The drive out Sun. evening was also amazing, particularly at the exit from 90 to
Hwy. 283 where, if I'm not mistaken, a female Blue Grouse flew over the road
above us. Shortly after, a Long-billed Curlew, unmistakable, followed suit.
When we drove right past a probable Swainson's Hawk perched on a fence post, we
finally figured out that we were just too focused on getting to our destination
in a timely manner. A brief stop along 17 at Soap Lake afforded a handsome
breeding plumaged Horned Grebe and the largest flock of Ruddy Ducks I've seen.
(They're a favorite with their stiff little tails, blue bills, and small-but-
plucky disposition.) It was a gorgeous drive north, but take your Deet!

I haven't been able to bring myself to read a newspaper yet today. A perfect
resurrection of spirit.

Patricia

--
Patricia Lott
Seattle, WA
VariedThrush at attbi.com