Tweeters,



Today, my daughter and I took a day trip east of the mountains. We hiked
around the Elk Heights Burn from 9-11am. It was very birdy up there with
warm sunshine and killer views of the Stuart Range. The most common species
were Western Bluebirds, Juncos and Cassin's Finches. Lots of woodpeckers! We
estimated 8 pairs of Hairy Woodpeckers, 2 pair Downys, 2 pair Northern
Flickers and one pair Black-Backed. I believe we caught a glimpse of a
Lewis' Woodpecker but not enough of a look for a positive ID.



Saw two Rough-Legged Hawks along with Sage Thrashers and Sage Sparrows on
Umptanum Road. Grass Widows, Yellow Bells, Sage Violets and Buttercups were
the common flowers in this area. The road to the Wenas Audubon Campground
was gated at 1.6 miles from the road junction. We took a walk up the road
past the gate and were treated to the sight of three adult Golden Eagles -
two males and a much larger female - performing some aerial acrobatics above
the ridge beyond the swamp.



We ended the day with a hike to Umptanum Falls. Not many birds but a nice
walk in the sunshine.



Dave Parent, Kelly Engelbracht