Tweets,

Thanks for the suggestions about martin gourds. We have six now and plan to put them in place off the pier at Logboom Park, Kenmore, this afternoon. This morning there were at least two male martins scouting the area.

As for turkeys and other introductions. While I agree that it's unfortunate that our tax-payer dollars are used to introduce exotic birds, I see no reason to turn away or beat my breast if a turkey flock should cross my path. They are fine impressive birds, wherever. Just as a Ring-necked Pheasant is a stirring sight, despite the fact they are "Chinese." While it may be the case the Wild Turkeys in Washington compete with native species, I've seen no proof of that. If you don't like these introductions, best write the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to complain.

As for Eurasian Collared-Doves, it is my understanding that they are suspected of having become established in Bermuda from escapes or introductions, but to have subsequently spread on their own throughout their current North American range. Or, it is conceivable they got to Bermuda by "natural" means, as the Cattle Egret is thought to have done. Then there's the Barred Owl....

Gene Hunn
18476 47th Pl NE
Lake Forest Park, WA 98155
enhunn323 at comcast.net