Tweets,
It sure seems there are plenty of "unusuals" this spring. Perhaps it is
weather related? Any observations/thoughts/conclusions? Among my small
samplings from the Tenino area:
- Willow Flycatchers are late and seem fewer here. No bugs? (Or maybe the
habitat is overgrown and not so favorable?)
- (I found migrating Hammond's Flyctr and pewee where I've never seen them
before, but this may be coincidence)
- Monday I encountered what appeared to be a small (late?) migrating flock
of Western Tanagers (Waldrick Rd), at least 3-5 birds apparently not yet
paired (but maybe not late migrators but simply too-young yearlings?)
- Monday I encountered a Cassin's Vireo singing in a "new" location where
I've never observed them in 15 years. Passing through (late?) or staking out
territory? (It was not prime habitat, along Mull St.) (I think I recall a
Tweeters post saying that migrant C's Vireo come through early (April) and
the breeders arrive later (early May), but you know how memory goes)
- Crossbills are hanging around the neighborhood (and elsewhere) this
spring, really unusual, and Monday the largest group yet showed up, 14
birds. Is this more about food supply than a cool spring?
- June 1 a first-ever Great Horned Owl was singing in my yard. Is there
something in their nesting/fledging schedule that would prompt a visit?
Lots of questions. Good birding!
--Paul Hicks, Tenino, s. Thurston Co
phicks AT accessgrace.org