Hello fellow tweeters!

Sorry to report the birding was lack lustre to say the least - a friend who came with us who is learning kept id-ing the crows and gulls for us.

All was not lost however - on Orcas - on our last day, we saw a group of 7 harlequin ducks (yea!!) - of course not in breeding colors, but came quite close to us. It was fun to see them dive together and then pop up at the same time!!

We did see a wonderful black fox at America's camp, a lone harbor seal on the rocks at Lime Kiln and a sentinel eagle at San Juan State park on the protect the wildlife sign on the small island just off the lookout. Alas - no orcas only a couple of dahls porpoise. A couple of dragonflies (blue/green darners) entertained us throughout our picnic - were we in their territory or did they like the bouquet of the wine we were sipping? Mr. Paulsen - any ideas? :)

Did see and hear several ravens and I freed a sparrow (song?) from a cottage on Orcas.

But - the weather - and sunsets were spectacular!! (Shopping wasn't bad either!! - especially in Nest in Eastsound and Crow Valley Pottery).

Guess I'll need to go back this winter to see the wintering birds.

Neil Zimmerman - we did have a beer at the Ale House in Friday Harbor and thought of you and Carleen...thanks for the tip!!

Thanks to all who gave us their favorite spots - we went to all of them - they were great to see even if the birding was not up to par. It wasn't for lack of trying.