Tweets,
I've noticed a resurgence of sapsucker activity in recent days following a
spell when they were much more inconspicuous (on eggs??).
One individual has apparently found a creative way to amplify his drumming.
I observed him on two separate utility poles strike a ground wire about 1/4
inch thick that runs off the lowest insulator and is stapled onto the pole.
He also utilized a tall snag on a high ridge overlooking a clearcut that
resonates loud and far. I've seen sapsuckers drum on metal gates, stop
signs, gutters, and metal plates atop utility poles, but never on a wire.
This guy must also have great aim to strike the wire squarely (roundly?)
each time in such rapid succession.
I was not able on Monday to find the Red-naped Sapsucker at Schaefer Park
reported by Sullivans nor Purple Martins at the Teitzel Rd clearcut. Martins
were present, however, at two locations along Big Hanaford Rd: heard
foraging near (just east of) the easternmost settling pond on the steam
plant property (where 6 swallow species were present), and a female perched
on a wire just east of Elk View Ln on the section of Big Hanaford east of
the steam plant property. Just east of the Tono Rd intersection (small
pulloff on left/north) were two singing Lazuli Buntings and a Cassin's
Vireo, and a bunting singing a few hundred yards past logging Rd. 150. 70
species on the morning.
Good birding!
Paul Hicks, Tenino, s. Thurston Co
phicks AT accessgrace.org