I was surprised to find a Pacific Loon in breeding plumage at Ellisport in Tramp Harbor on Vashon Island this afternoon at low tide. It feeding only about 40' offshore in shallow water which also seems very unusual. It appeared to be doing okay diving several times and also providing lots of surface time for some good looks. Often one or two Common Loons hang out for the summer in Tramp Harbor but this is the first time I have seen a Pacific Loon past the third week of May. Do many non-breeders stay in the Puget Sound area during the summer?

Also, nearby at KVI Beach, a Western Kingbird was hawking for insects. About three weeks ago, two independent sightings of Western Kingbirds occurred on Maury Island about three miles away. Possibly all three were the same bird.

We also have the first confirmed breeding of Barn Owls in quite some time with a nest at the local elementary school playground. They seem to do fine with all of the noise and activity. Apparently they bred in the same snag last year but no birders got to the nest before the young fledged to give a positive identification. I figured Barred Owls from the description before and because they are so common on Vashon. I have seen Great Horned, Barred and Barn Owl young or nests this year, too bad I missed any saw-whets.

Ed Swan
Vashon Island
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