Hello Fellow Tweets,

My girlfriend Kelly and I just returned from a wonderful (despite the weather!) birding trip to the Winthrop area. In all we managed to find 85 different bird and the list would have been higher but our Sparrow and Fly Catcher ID needs some help!

In addition, we were able to explore and find some wonderful birding sites and scenery. Some of our favorites were in the Twisp area and included Shaw and Dead Horse Lakes where we were able to observe: Rudy Ducks, Cinnamon Teal (the most I have observed in one setting), Barrow's Golden Eye, Wilson Phalaropes, Hooded Mergansers and numerous other water fowl. On the hike in we were able to spot numerous Bullock's Orioles, Lazuli Buntings, Calliope Hummingbirds, Yellow Warblers, Black-headed Grosbeaks and Mountain Bluebirds. Great rewards for a short hike!

We then spent some time exploring the Indian Dan Road area near Brewster. Another short hike for some wonderful birding: Says Phoebe, Goldfinches (too many to count), Yellow head Blackbirds, Western Bluebirds were abound. Unfortunately we did not find a Sharp Tail Grouse but we did flush something (maybe????) but the look wasn't great and the more experienced birder wouldn't let me call it! We also spent some time observing the Double-crested Cormorant and Heron rookery near the mouth of the Okanogan River where its enters the Columbia. Great stuff!

Lastly we spent some time in the Mazama area and birded the Dripping Springs area. The birds were light but the trees were incredible: Aspens, Cottonwoods and Ponderosa Pines. Without question, they were some of the finest and largest specimens I have seen as was the Black Bear who lazily crossed some 40 feet in front of us. Truly magical!

All in all it was great trip and we can't wait to get out again!
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