This morning between Kahlotus and Washtucna both Prairie Falcon and Northern Shrike were perched along the highway. Both species are expected around eastern Franklin and Adams counties in the fall and winter. In Washtucna it was pretty slow, mostly juncos, Song Sparrows and a couple of Varied Thrushes, although I did see a Eurasian Collared-Dove that is still present since May. Last year's Blue Jay did not return to the spot south of Bassett Park, but the location north of the park had one for a week or two according to the homeowner that has several feeders out. Two N Rough-legged Hawks included one with a dark bib much more contrasting than the light adult male pictured in Sibley.

I hope all the returning students made it back to Pullman and Moscow safely. Turning on your headlights will help warn oncoming traffic that you are in a bigger hurry than you need to be!

Randy Hill
Othello