I was at Willapa Bay from July 1 through July 4.

Not surprisingly, the fall movement of adult shorebirds has begun, with
WESTERN SANDPIPERS leading the way in the largest numbers.

I can not say how many WESTERN SANDPIPERS I saw. There were flocks ranging
from 20 to about 250 birds along the bayside of the peninsula. Many flocks
flew past a point about a mile south of Nachotta on July 2, 3, and 4; while
only a few flew past on July 1. Where I found Western Sandpipers on the
ground, I also saw a few LEAST SANDPIPERS.

A WHIMBREL was at Ledbetter Point on July 2.

8 SEMIPALMATED PLOVERS were on the lower bay on July 4.

The large aerial spraying of the bay to eradicate spartina (cord grass) is
reportedly scheduled for later this month. The former roost area near the
parking lot at Ledbetter State Park had three GREATER YELLOWLEGS on July 2.
Western Sandpipers flew by and hesitated there but never landed. There is
apparently too much spartina for them at that location. IT MUST GO.

Jeff Gilligan
Portland and Nachotta area.