Today (6.21.05) I observed a female MANDARIN DUCK with 6 young on the Green River in Kent. Traveling south on Central Ave(Auburn Way) south of Kent, turn left (east) onto 259th at the traffic light. Follow Green River Road S along the river. The ducks were seen between where you pass under the 277th bridge and the golf course.

Also along this stretch are quite a few BULLOCK'S ORIOLES, BLACK-THROATED GRAY WARBLERS, WARBLING VIREOS, SWAINSON'S THRUSHES and many other species.

Yesterday at Thomas Wetland were GREAT BLUE HERON, AMERICAN BITTERN and GREEN HERON. In the last 1.5 weeks, I have seen RIVER OTTERS 3 times at the wetland. Thomas Wetland will soon be a fine place to look for shorebirds. To get there, exit from Hwy 167 south of Kent, onto 277th (next exit south of Willis) and travel east. Turn right (south) onto Frontage Road and pass Toysmith. At the 90 you will see a wooden fence and Thomas Wetland.

It was a good day.

Marv Breece
Seattle, WA