Burt and Tweeters, I feel the need to rise to the defense of my adopted
downtown Oly haunts (at least half-heartedly). I will begin by saying that
I have to listen to Keith Brady talk about the "good old days" quite often,
so I'm aware of the decline of Western Grebes, Red-necked Grebes, Barrow's
Goldeneyes and others in East and West Bay. And it's nothing like it was a
decade ago (or so I'm told and have read). BUT...

Green-winged Teal - These are often in the area you are describing but I
would never say they could be "counted on". If you scope the far shoreline
opposite the interpretive center they can be found hiding out there. If you
get to the interpretive center ponds after the walkers have emerged from
their Outbacks, you will not find the more skittish waterfowl. This pond
has been great for close looks at Hooded Merganser lately, there was a
juvenile Green Heron here for over a week in October (a good spot for this
species locally in winter months). You can also try the park on the other
side of I-5 at the base of Tumwater Falls, sometimes the teal head over here
for some peace and quiet (assumed).

Ring-necked Ducks are usually on Percival Cove. If they aren't here then
that's because they have jumped across the road to join the Scaup flocks
closer to the railroad.

Earlier this month (I haven't been getting out much lately) Common
Goldeneyes were at the south end of the lake. They are also usually (last
winter) at the railroad crossing. I usually see Barrow's Goldeneye from the
KGY site looking west towards Reliable Steel, against the shoreline. I
haven't noticed any Barrow's yet, but then I haven't been out to look.

Last month had at least two Redhead in with the scaup flock on the south
end. At the same period there were Canvasbacks on both ends of the lake.
Also check the north end of the lake from Marathon Park for grebes
(double-digit P/Billeds, 1 Eared has been around, Horned, 1 Western last
month, 1 Clark's last month).

As for variety, if I want to see lots of different waterbirds in a day I
usually do a lap of Capitol Lake, check North Point/KGY quickly and then
buzz out to Luhr Beach. With this route you have the possibility of seeing
all expected waterfowl plus Thurston toughies like L/T Duck, Black Scoter,
Harlequin Duck and Smew (o.k. I've been daydreaming lately). Kelly
McAllister might be able to fill us in on the larger Thurston freshwater
lake numbers, though I've found access difficult at most.

Jason Paulios
Jpaulios at earthlink.net
Olympia, WA