Subject: [Tweeters] Ross's Gull-info and a plea
Date: Dec 21 06:21:23 2011
From: Andy Stepniewski - steppie at nwinfo.net


Tweeters,

I have been asked by respected Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
biologists and personnel to help get this message out that the birding
community MUST respect private property rights if we wish to continue to
view the Ross's Gull at Palmer Lake.

The Ross's Gull has been reliable at a certain location on the east shore,
feeding on a mostly submerged dead deer. To view the gull, park at a pull
out just east of the BLM Split Rock day-use access (southwest corner of
Palmer Lake). Scope northeast along the shore, perhaps 1/8 mile. The gull
frequently feeds on the deer, downing good-size chunks of meat. The nearby
homeowner, an "energetic man in his 80s," threatens to dispose of the deer
if any trespassing occurs on his or neighboring properties, or "if the
situation gets out of hand." The message to all observers is clear:
respecting private property rights is critical if we wish to have the
opportunity to observe the Ross's Gull.

If you make the trip to Okanogan County to view the Ross's Gull, please take
the opportunity to tell all business folk you may come across (in
restaurants, convenience or general stores, motels, etc.) that you are there
to observe this rare bird and other wildlife. News that birders from all
over are attracted to Okanogan County to view this rare visitor just might
help their County Commissioners better appreciate the need to recognize and
protect the outstanding natural values of this beautiful part of
north-central Washington.

Good luck in your Ross's Gull search!

Andy Stepniewski
Wapato WA
steppie at nwinfo.net