Went on a damp hike this morning up the Necklace Valley trail, a bit east of
Skykomish (US 2) off the Foss River Rd. Nice lowland forest, once you get in
a ways some great snags and a few big trees. I was pondering a mushroom when
a screech and motion from behind sent me sprawling in the trail. A goshawk
took exception to my stopping. I grabbed a stick, put my hat on it, and
waited but the hawk must have used up all its energy, probably laughing at
the way I went face first into the dirt. The hawk did not return and I
continued my hike.

Like an idiot, I forgot about it on the way out. This time I was facing the
right way when the Gos came at me. I yelled and waved my arms and it veered
off. I kept a wary eye behind but no more sneak attacks today. This must be
my week for Hawk encounters.

Rob Sandelin
South Snohomish County at the headwaters of Ricci Creek
Sky Valley Environments <http://www.nonprofitpages.com/nica/SVE.htm>
Field skills training for student naturalists
Floriferous at msn.com