Hi Everyone,

I braved the relentless rain today and greatly enjoyed exploring points north and west of Mount Ranier. A real highlight for me was finding at least 18 VARIED THRUSHES at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park (north of Enumclaw). As an out-of-state birder, this was the extensive study of the species for which I'd hoped. I had spotted two birds very briefly before this afternoon, so seeing so many was very exciting. I wanted to point out this apparently excellent location for anyone else looking for a great location. I also heard my first WESTERN SCREECH-OWL at dusk at a nearby location--quite exciting.

I always hesitate about posting RFIs to listservs when I travel, especially if I have a long list of hoped-for species and haven't put in much "work" in an area. Having spent a bit of time exploring on my own now, there are still a couple perhaps-"easy" species with which I'd hoped to have better luck. They're all birds I'm sure I could find with just a bit more time, but my trip is winding down. If anyone out there wouldn't mind, I would love any off-line advice for finding the following birds, especially promising locations within an hour or so of Tacoma.

Red-breasted Sapsucker
Northern Pygmy-Owl
Bewick's Wren - I think I'm just crazy. I'm up to about 800 Winter Wrens now, but... :)
Evening Grosbeak
A good gull spot near Lakewood/Tacoma, especially one that's active in the afternoon - I'm particularly interested in studying/photographing Thayer's and Mew Gulls.

Thanks much in advance!

Bill Hubick
Lakewood, WA / Elkridge, MD
www.billhubick.com
bill_hubick at yahoo.com