We were in LaPush area most of the week of June 20. We saw dozens of
brown pelicans cruising over the waves in small groups.

Numerous Wilson's warblers in the near-shore forest undergrowth.We also
spotted three or four band-tailed doves up in the spruce trees, picking
at the bark.

On Rialto Beach, we found a spot where a trickle of freshwater runoff
came out of the woods and disappeared into the beach cobbles. The more
sizeable winter runoff here had uncovered a deposit of clay. On two
occasions, we saw flocks of red crossbills stopping to drink and splash
about a bit in the water trickle, Some also nibbled a bit at the clay.

Most of the males in the flocks we saw were orange-yellow, rather than
red.

John Stark, Reporter
The Bellingham Herald and TheBellinghamHerald.com
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