Subject: [Tweeters] Montane Invasions
Date: Nov 21 16:07:25 2004
From: SGMlod at aol.com - SGMlod at aol.com


Greetings All

I kind of hit on this topic earlier re: WBNuthatches. But it's valid for most
of the irruptive species we're seeing now. Most are probably NOT coming from
the Cascades. The forests in n. Idaho, Alberta and elsewhere are dying from a
combo of drought and insect infestation. Who knows, the AK/Yukon fires may
play a role as well. Many of these species are appearing continent wide.
Apparently the midwest Boreal Owl invasion is the likes never seen before.

So, we are witnessing a stunning ornithological event. Experience it. Be
awed. And remember the reasons for it. And the Mountain Chickadee in your backyard
probably has traveled much farther than you may have guessed. Even that N
Pygmy Owl that's just a bit out-of-place may be a long-distance wanderer.

Also, it is likely that not all of the irruptions we are seeing are related.
Blue Jays and Purple Finches, for instance, are deciduous woodland birds (or
at least mostly so) and have likely irrupted for a different reason (though
drought might certainly still play a role).

Best Wishes
Steven Mlodinow
Everett WA 98203