I used to live near Medical Lake, and routinely walked the 3 mile trail (surprisingly good birding at times) around the lake itself. Twice I saw a small covey of perhaps 8 or 9 birds near the boat launch which were adults and nearly grown young, and probably at least a year later saw one male cross the road coming into Medical Lake near the sign announcing the city (the Medical Lake Four Lakes Rd). My records are buried somewhere as the result of 3 moves since then, but 1996 and 1997 are close.

I don't know of anyone releasing them, but it is always possible, so I too will be interested in others' thoughts. Fortunately I have also heard them here in Thurston County.

Kristin Stewart
Olympia
kristinstewart01 at comcast.net


> Tweeters,
>
> Yesterday, I heard a Northern Bobwhite calling on my parent's property in
> Elk, WA (northern Spokane County). This is the first time I have ever heard
> one in the Eastern Washington/North Idaho area. I assume that this is an
> escapee, as I know of no established populations in the area. My
> understanding is that the only established population at this time in our
> area is on the Weir Prarie southeast of Tacoma. Any thoughts?
>
> Matthew Moskwik
> mpmoskwik at hotmail.com
> Cheney, WA
>
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