Tweeters, stopped off at the Say's Phoebe site across from Nisqually NWR
near Olympia today. NO PHOEBE present, nor have I seen it on the three
trips out. As far as I know it has only been seen on the CBC day (14th) and
not relocated. My vigilance was rewarded, however, with a nice little flock
of 8 BLACK-BELLIED PLOVERS in the field east of the hatchery (Nisqually
Cut-off RD near the crossing of McAllister Creek) where the gulls
congregate. Only had binocs with me which drove me crazy, but I'm fairly
sure they were all Black-bellied as none seemed smaller (i.e..
Golden-plover). This is only my 3rd or 4th time seeing the species in the
county (and first for winter) so I was happy. They came a day late for the
CBC count week however...pretty sure we missed this species on Sunday.

Also made a stop (after getting my scope) at the end of Marine View DR in
Budd Inlet downtown Olympia. Setting sun behind me created nice viewing
conditions of the bay and the Olympics in the background. First birds I
looked at were 11 BRANDT'S CORMORANTS on the closest wooden tower in the
bay...we dipped on these guys Sunday for our downtown count, but then we
didn't have weather like today either. Hiding amongst these birds was 1
PELAGIC CORMORANT as well.

Anyway, also saw the usual assortment of MEW GULL, W/W and SURF SCOTER and
both GOLDENEYE. Some Hoodies around as well as a group of 3 GADWALL. Nice
day to be outside.

The 2 ROSS'S GEESE were still around yesterday afternoon at both Nisqually
NWR and the field at the entrance to Nisqually Cut-off RD on the other side
of the freeway. Also had the PEREGRINE in the fir behind the headquarters
building, and 1 VIRGINIA RAIL called in the wetlands here too.

Jason Paulios
Jpaulios at earthlink.net
Olympia, WA