Hi Tweets

Michael and family are off for a few days, so several of us stood in for
him today at Marymoor.

The day was bright and clear, but not too hot. The temperature started
out at 58F and climbed to 77F at the finish. The river is continuing to
drop. Things are definitely slowing down although bird activity while
quiet is still good.

A couple of definite highlights today - we had a pair of Western
Tanagers working the ash trees over near across from the rowing club,
and in the fenced off restoration area between the parking lot and the
soccer fields we had a pair of Western Kingbirds. Both birds are nice
for Marymoor for this time of year. Nice looks at either one or two
Vaux's Swifts zooming back and forth along the river. Great views of
Osprey cruising up the river and out over the lake. We had at least
three families of Wood Ducks out (females and ducklings of various ages)
and a couple of "fledged" young on their own. Had nice looks at a couple
of Swainson's Thrushes and respectable looks at Red-eyed Vireo.

We also had a brief look at a Long-tailed Weasel, and Blue-eyed Darner
and Eight-spotted Skimmer.

A very nice day for late July, with a total of 52 species.

Brian H. Bell
Woodinville WA
bellasoc at isomedia.com