Hello all,

Just wanted to write a note regarding the BAIKAL TEAL in the Kent area since
we've got so many folks viewing it under different conditions than before.
Earlier there was much discussion regarding the population of this duck in
Asia and (seemingly) increasing records from the Alaska, but since this bird
has not yet been accepted by the WA records committee (and collectors enjoy
the species) we should probably be on the lookout for some cues to it's
origin while it is still around.

I haven't been to the new site but can anyone comment on the distance and
viewing conditions? If viewers can note the presence of the hallux on the
right leg (I believe that is the preferred clipping leg) it would bolster
the wild origin cause. I assume some have noticed the lack of a leg band as
well? It was only seen once standing on land (if I remember right) at the
Kent Ponds so this new locale might be a better spot for noticing this.

Also since so many eagles seem to be passing by maybe we should keep track
of whether or not it flies away when other ducks do. If it left when others
stayed, or vice versa that might be seen as problematic (granted this would
be treated as lesser evidence). I'm more concerned about those hallux
(halluxes, haluxii?).

Anxious to tick that sucker (but can't completely shake the skepticism yet),

Jason Paulios
Jpaulios at earthlink.net
Olympia, WA