Subject: [Tweeters] Easter birding at Pioneer Park (Mercer Island)
Date: Apr 13 17:14:31 2009
From: Khanh Tran - fsprucegrouse at yahoo.com



Hi Tweets,

This past Easter Weekend, I spent time in Mercer Island with family and didn't get very far with the rich, lamb dinner and extra helpings of coconut cake. But I did managed to clamber my way to Pioneer Park (SE 68th and Island Crest Way) and found a few surprisingly cool birds.

Pioneer Park was pretty birdy with the expected moist forest residence: Bandtailed pigeons, Chestnut backed Chickadees, Pine Siskins, and Red breasted Sapsuckers. Found my FOY, BLACK THROATED GRAY WARBLER, a few Rufous hummers, and a Cooper's Hawk were en route.

I also lucked out and found a BARRED OWL along the west end of the park. Amazing how the owl blended in so well with the tree trunk, explaining how calm it was. On my way, out a pair of Pileated Woodpeckers were courting and copulated in front of a few non-birding folks. The locals were so impressed with the sheer size of the woodpeckers. And of course, it is always cool to see any owls period!!

Going back to the park shortly after dusk, I heard a few WESTERN SCREECH OWL. Up further towards the Mercer Island Saddle Club, I heard and found a BARN OWL.

Sunday afternoon was dreadfully wet and gray. Getting a pack of bright and cheerful PEEPS for the ride home was not a good idea. I hope you went easy on those toxic confections. I am in the wrong business:(

http://www.pbase.com/spruce_grouse/recent_photos

Good birding,

Khanh Tran (Portland, Oregon)