This morning I did a quick run through some downtown Olympia spots. There
are still 4 REDHEADS at the south end of Capitol Lake ("Interpretive
Center"). Also still about 130 Bufflehead on the lake, by far the most
numerous waterfowl species left. Other waterfowl included some G/W Teal, 4
C. Merganser, Lesser Scaup, Gadwall, Mallard. Haven't seen a Ruddy there
for over a month now. There was a pair of bickering Downy Woodpeckers here,
one chasing the other all over the place giving loud calls. Some Bushtits
around again too.

Percival Cove (opposite Capitol Lake on Deschutes PKWY) still had 4 R/N
Ducks and 1 Harbor Seal (can't believe they make it in this far). There was
a nice flock of 40 swallows flying about at this location. Mixed flock of
mostly Trees and a few Violet-Greens, biggest flock I've seen this year. A
local crow was making some forays out over the lake swooping at a few of the
lower altitude birds, I'm guessing it was hoping for a tired migrant.

Stopped at the Farmer's Market to look for the Peregrines on the port
cranes. Had a nice view of one perched on the north tower. They are
probably nesting in the box on this tower (I think it was Kelly McAllister
who got the boxes up there). Only saw the one bird today but he seemed to
be looking over his territory. Let's hope they succeed this year!

Last night I saw a Rufous Hummingbird at my friend's feeder on Tumwater
Hill. It has been back for about a week now.

Jason Paulios
Jpaulios at earthlink.net
Olympia, WA