Tweeterites,
Today, Matt Kizer and I decided to play hookey from the regular Nisqually wednesday walk to go look for the Hudsonian Godwit at the Ocean Shores game range. For some reason we could not convince Ruth Sullivan to go for a 4th day. The bird was quickly found off the Tonquin Avenue parking area, where it kept company with from 4 to 8 Long-billed Dowitchers. We observed it a fairly close range from 10 AM to noon. Photographs of the bird with it's head up were difficult as it was constantly probing the mud. Although we did not find either of the Peregrines, shortly after we arrived, a Merlin flew in, landed on the mud on the opposite shore, then flew off about 20 seconds later. Matt was able to find the Pacific Golden Plover mentioned by Ruth. It was about 200 yards to the right (west) in the dry grassier areas. Also of note were 4 Red-necked Phalaropes. At Damon Point, Matt was able to find the female King Eider in the company of several Scoters. The STP contained 1 more Red-necked Phalarope, almost missed, as it was continually hiding behind some of the floats. I have added a link to a photo of the Godwit.
Jeff Cohen
Maple Leaf, north Seattle

http://www.flickr.com/photos/bigdipper22/4884264793/