Greetings Tweeters,

Did a quick circuit through Nisqually this AM. I was on site from about 0645 to 0810, walking to the end of the board walk as well as each side of the refuge/ twin barns loops. There were many interesting sightings, but by far the most interesting were two Black Terns working the freshwater areas inside the dike. Also of note were a few first of year (FOY) migrants and/or spring arrivals. Included in this group were Willow Flycatcher (2), Western Wood-Pewee (2), Olive-sided Flycatcher (1), and MacGillivrays Warbler (1). Continuing and already reported species of note were Great Egret (2), Wilsons Phalarope (2), and Yellow-headed Blackbirds (2). And finally, topping of a generally great morning were a few lingering shorebirds including a Whimbrel and 3 Western Sandpiper s, many Blue-winged and cinnamon Teal, and a striking male Ruddy Duck.

Cheers and good birding,
Bill Shelmerdine, Olympia
mailto: georn1 at hotmail.com