I had just parked my truck behind the house, facing the alley , when a Sharp-shinned Hawk zipped in front of me at high speed. It was flying north across 3 backyards, clearing all solid objects - fences, utility sheds, garages, ect. at about an even 1 foot clearance when it dropped out of sight. Amazing!

Years ago when working at the Point Reyes Bird Observatory I heard a great anecdote from Dave DeSante who was in charge of land bird studies there at the time. He was down in Baja doing studies and living in a place with a long view of a number of fenced 'yards'. One yard had a bird feeder, and he had the opportunity to watch some Sharpie strategy. The Sharpie would make a hit on the feeder birds. Then ,whether successful or not, would make a long leisurely flight down ten or so yards, taking it's time. By then birds scattered by the last 'attack' would be coming back to the feeder. About then the Sharpie had turned around, and was 'steeple chasing' at high speed over all the fences and yards and Wham! would hit the feeder again. Surprise!

Also fun to see in my backyard was the first Anna's Hummer I've seen here - coming to my empty feeder. I'd set up my feeder for the first time this spring and did'nt attract any customers. Now that it's empty I finally get one.


Jeff Gibson, Everett Wa